Friday night’s College Football Playoff opener between Notre Dame and Indiana is not just a game – it’s a historic event with enormous national implications. The winner of this matchup will advance to play Georgia in the Sugar Bowl quarterfinal. Locally, it marks the first meeting between these two in-state teams since 1991 and holds historical significance as the inaugural game of the 12-team playoff era at Notre Dame Stadium.
The magnitude of this game has sparked discussion about where it ranks among the biggest sporting events in Indiana history. To honor the expanded bracket and celebrate the state’s rich sports history, a list of the 12 biggest sporting events hosted in Indiana has been compiled.
From Indiana’s perfect season in 1976 at Assembly Hall to the iconic Milan Miracle in 1954, these events have left a lasting impact on the sports landscape of the state. Other notable events include the 1982 Indianapolis 500, the 1994 Brickyard 400, and the 2010 Final Four featuring Butler University.
One of the most memorable moments on the list is the Colts-Patriots AFC Championship game in 2007, where Peyton Manning led a dramatic comeback to secure a trip to the Super Bowl. The top spot on the list is reserved for Super Bowl XLVI, where Eli Manning and the New York Giants beat the New England Patriots in a thrilling game at Lucas Oil Stadium.
While these events have come and gone, they have left an indelible mark on the sports history of Indiana, showcasing the state’s passion for athletics and the memorable moments that have unfolded on its soil.
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