The 1996 college football season closed out with a defacto semifinal scenario as #2 Arizona State took on #4 Ohio State in the Rose Bowl while #1 Florida State played #3 Florida in the Sugar Bowl. 

Our focus on this episode is the 1997 Rose Bowl, where the Sun Devils - led by Jake Plummer and Pat Tillman - were trying to close out an undefeated season and claim at least a share of the national championship. 

On the other sideline, the Buckeyes lost a chance at an undefeated season when they dropped another game to Michigan under head coach John Cooper. Now they were playing the role of spoiler, but Cooper had just one bowl win in his previous eight seasons at Ohio State coming into Pasadena. 

Here's what we wanted to cover about this game:

• We had forgotten all about the importance of this game. 
• Ohio State's lack of success under Cooper.
• Arizona State's schedule in 1996. 
• Brent Musburger and Dick Vermeil on the call. 
• Great nicknames.
• The Buckeyes had a loaded roster.
• Two quarterback system with Stanley Jackson and Joe Germaine.
• Orlando Pace the man-child.
• A look through the game itself. 
• National title scenarios in 1996 if the game finished differently.

Thanks to a listener for requesting this game. We're glad we went back to watch it. 

If you have a recommendation for us, please shoot it to us on at http://twitter.com/distantpodcast

For more on this game and to watch the full broadcast, visit us here: https://distantreplaypodcast.com/?p=238 

Find us on YouTube as well: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYJazLhxFKGpM4Yge-DuxTg