Nebraska Cornhuskers: A Historical Look at their Championship Record
Since 1890, the Nebraska Cornhuskers’ football program has brought joy and success to the people of Nebraska and beyond. As one of the most successful college football programs in the nation, the Cornhuskers have won five national championships, appeared in six major bowl games, and won or shared 48 conference titles. But when was the last time Nebraska won a championship?
1996 National Championship Win
The last time Nebraska won a championship was in 1996, when they achieved their fifth national championship by beating the Florida Gators in the Orange Bowl.
Led by head coach Tom Osborne, the Cornhuskers dominated the Gators in a 62-24 victory. This was the first season that the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) was used to determine the national champion.
The Cornhuskers entered the game with a perfect 12-0 record and the top ranking in both major polls. They were the first team to win the national championship under the new BCS system, and their victory capped off an incredible season for the program.
Tom Osborne’s Leadership
Tom Osborne was the head coach of the Cornhuskers from 1973-1997, and during his tenure, the team won three national championships, appeared in five major bowl games, and won or shared 25 conference titles.
Osborne was known for his discipline and focus on fundamentals, and he was beloved by Nebraska fans for his commitment to the program and the state of Nebraska. His leadership was a key factor in the team’s success, and he was instrumental in leading the Cornhuskers to their last national championship in 1996.
Key Players of 1996 Team
The 1996 Cornhuskers were led by a talented group of players, including quarterback Tommie Frazier, running back Ahman Green, and wide receiver Matt Davison.
Frazier was the team’s leader on the field, and he was considered one of the greatest college quarterbacks of all time. He finished his career with a 33-3 record and three national championship appearances.
Green was the team’s leading rusher and one of the most dynamic players in the nation. He ran for 1,877 yards and 22 touchdowns that season, and he was a key factor in the Cornhuskers’ success.
Davison was the team’s top receiver and one of the best in the nation. He had 1,176 yards and 11 touchdowns that season, and his performance in the Orange Bowl was instrumental in the Cornhuskers’ victory.
Nebraska’s Other National Championships
In addition to their 1996 championship, the Cornhuskers have won four other national titles. The first came in 1970 under legendary coach Bob Devaney, when they defeated LSU in the Orange Bowl.
The Cornhuskers won their second title in 1971, again under Devaney, and their third title in 1994 under Osborne. They won their fourth title in 1995, and their fifth and most recent title in 1996.
Nebraska’s Bowl Appearances
In addition to their five national championships, the Cornhuskers have made six major bowl appearances. The first came in 1970, when they defeated LSU in the Orange Bowl.
The Cornhuskers appeared in the Orange Bowl again in 1971, and they won the Fiesta Bowl in 1994, 1995, and 1996. They also appeared in the Cotton Bowl in 1997, but lost to Tennessee.
Nebraska’s Conference Titles
The Cornhuskers have also had tremendous success in conference play, winning or sharing 48 conference titles.
The Cornhuskers won or shared their first conference title in 1945, and their most recent came in 2012. In between, they won or shared titles in the Big 6, Big 7, Big 8, Big 12, and Big Ten conferences.
Nebraska’s Successful Football Program
The Nebraska Cornhuskers have been one of the most successful college football programs in the nation. In the last 30 years, they have won five national championships, appeared in six major bowl games, and won or shared 48 conference titles.
The Cornhuskers’ last national championship came in 1996, when they defeated the Florida Gators in the Orange Bowl. Led by head coach Tom Osborne and a talented roster of players, the Cornhuskers dominated the Gators in a 62-24 victory.
Nebraska’s Future
While Nebraska fans will always remember their last national championship in 1996, the program is focused on the future.
Head coach Scott Frost is in his second season at the helm, and the Cornhuskers are looking to return to their winning ways. They are currently ranked in the top 25 in both major polls, and they have the potential to be a contender for a national championship in the near future.
Conclusion
The Nebraska Cornhuskers are one of the most successful college football programs in the nation, and their last national championship came in 1996. Led by head coach Tom Osborne and a talented roster of players, the Cornhuskers defeated the Florida Gators in the Orange Bowl to secure their fifth national title.
The Cornhuskers have a rich history of success, and they are looking to the future under head coach Scott Frost. With the right combination of talent and coaching, the Cornhuskers could be well on their way to adding to their championship resume.