The College Football Playoff (CFP) has been the focal point of college football’s postseason since its inception in 2014. Each year, the best teams in the nation compete for the coveted national championship, but it is often the individual performances on the field that leave a lasting impression. Over the years, several players have delivered extraordinary performances during the CFP, etching their names in college football history. Below are the top ten individual performances in CFP history, showcasing the incredible talent and determination these athletes displayed on the grandest stage.
1. Deshaun Watson – 2017 National Championship Game (Clemson vs. Alabama)
Deshaun Watson’s performance in the 2017 National Championship Game is often cited as one of the greatest in CFP history. Watson was at the helm of a Clemson offense that stunned Alabama, leading the Tigers to a 35-31 victory. Watson threw for 420 yards and three touchdowns, including the game-winning 2-yard touchdown pass to Hunter Renfrow with just one second left on the clock. Watson’s composure in the final moments of the game, his pinpoint accuracy, and his ability to perform under pressure made him the hero of a thrilling contest and a deserving CFP MVP.
2. Joe Burrow – 2020 National Championship Game (LSU vs. Clemson)
Joe Burrow’s performance in the 2020 National Championship Game capped off one of the most memorable individual seasons in college football history. Burrow, who was already having a record-breaking year, threw for 463 yards and five touchdowns in LSU’s 42-25 victory over Clemson. Burrow was unstoppable throughout the game, displaying incredible poise and accuracy. His combination of pinpoint passing, including deep balls and short completions, and his ability to read defenses made him a nightmare for the Clemson secondary. His play in this game was a fitting conclusion to his Heisman-winning season.
3. Alabama’s Derrick Henry – 2016 CFP Semifinal (Alabama vs. Michigan State)
Derrick Henry’s performance in the 2016 CFP Semifinal was a statement to the football world. Alabama cruised past Michigan State 38-0, and Henry was the primary weapon. The Heisman Trophy winner rushed for 75 yards and three touchdowns in the first half alone, finishing with 2 yards short of the CFP record for most rushing yards in a game with 200 total yards. Henry’s combination of size, speed, and vision was on full display, and he wore down the Michigan State defense in a dominant performance. His ability to control the clock and power the Alabama offense was a key factor in the team’s march to the national championship.
4. Tua Tagovailoa – 2018 National Championship Game (Alabama vs. Georgia)
Tua Tagovailoa entered the 2018 National Championship Game as a freshman and made an immediate impact. After being inserted into the game in the second half for a struggling Jalen Hurts, Tagovailoa threw for 166 yards and three touchdowns, leading Alabama to a 26-23 overtime victory over Georgia. The most memorable moment came when he threw a 41-yard touchdown pass to DeVonta Smith in overtime to secure the win. Tagovailoa’s poise under pressure and his ability to lead Alabama to a national title as a freshman made this performance one for the ages.
5. Trevor Lawrence – 2019 National Championship Game (Clemson vs. Alabama)
Trevor Lawrence’s performance in the 2019 National Championship Game solidified his status as one of the most talented quarterbacks to play college football. Lawrence threw for 347 yards and three touchdowns, leading Clemson to a dominating 44-16 win over Alabama. He was nearly flawless in the game, showcasing his ability to make accurate throws in key situations. Lawrence’s 62-yard touchdown pass to Tee Higgins and his ability to distribute the ball to multiple playmakers were key in dismantling the Alabama defense. This victory gave Clemson its second national title in three years and firmly established Lawrence as the leader of one of college football’s elite programs.
6. Zeke Elliott – 2014 CFP Semifinal (Ohio State vs. Alabama)
In the inaugural College Football Playoff, Ezekiel Elliott delivered one of the most iconic performances in CFP history during Ohio State’s 42-35 victory over Alabama in the 2014 CFP Semifinal. Elliott rushed for 230 yards and two touchdowns, including an incredible 85-yard run to seal the win in the fourth quarter. His ability to break tackles, explode through holes, and outpace defenders made him a nightmare for the Alabama defense. Elliott’s performance helped propel Ohio State to the national title, and it remains one of the best individual showings in CFP history.
7. CeeDee Lamb – 2019 CFP Semifinal (Oklahoma vs. LSU)
Although Oklahoma ultimately lost to LSU in the 2019 CFP Semifinal, CeeDee Lamb’s performance was one of the most remarkable individual efforts of that postseason. Lamb caught eight passes for 173 yards and a pair of touchdowns, often making spectacular catches in key moments. His 71-yard touchdown reception showcased his speed and ball-tracking ability, and he provided Oklahoma’s offense with a spark throughout the game. Despite Oklahoma’s loss, Lamb’s performance served as a reminder of why he was considered one of the best wide receivers in college football.
8. Jalen Hurts – 2018 CFP Semifinal (Alabama vs. Oklahoma)
Jalen Hurts’ performance in the 2018 CFP Semifinal against Oklahoma was a stunning display of versatility and leadership. Hurts passed for 195 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing for 115 yards and three touchdowns in a 45-34 victory. Hurts was a constant threat both in the air and on the ground, leading the Alabama offense to a high-scoring victory. His ability to make plays in critical moments, particularly on the ground, helped Alabama secure a spot in the national championship game. Hurts’ dynamic performance was a reminder of his skill set and ability to rise to the occasion.
9. Jonathan Taylor – 2019 CFP Semifinal (Wisconsin vs. Oregon)
Jonathan Taylor’s performance in the 2019 CFP Semifinal, despite Wisconsin’s loss to Oregon, was one of the most dominant running back performances in CFP history. Taylor rushed for 194 yards and two touchdowns, showing off his powerful running style and breakaway speed. Although the Badgers fell short of victory, Taylor’s ability to carry the load and make plays against a strong Oregon defense solidified his status as one of the top backs in college football. Taylor’s relentless effort on every play provided a glimpse of why he was so highly regarded throughout his career.
10. Derrick Brown – 2019 CFP Semifinal (Auburn vs. Oregon)
Derrick Brown’s performance in the 2019 CFP Semifinal stood out as one of the most dominant defensive efforts in recent CFP history. Brown, the Auburn defensive lineman, was a constant presence in the Oregon backfield, recording several key tackles for loss and wreaking havoc on the Ducks’ offensive line. His ability to disrupt both the run and the pass game was a testament to his strength, quickness, and football IQ. Brown’s performance, although in a losing effort for Auburn, showed why he was considered one of the best defensive players in college football.
