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10 Biggest Cinderella college football national champions of all time

By Michael Collins

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker (14) celebrates on the field after defeating the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker (14) celebrates on the field after defeating the Clemson Tigers in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 11, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Detailed view of a Southern California Trojans helmet during the game against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium. The Trojans defeated the Wildcats 28-26. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 11, 2014; Tucson, AZ, USA; Detailed view of a Southern California Trojans helmet during the game against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium. The Trojans defeated the Wildcats 28-26. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 9 – 1962 USC Trojans

Preseason Rank: Unranked
Crowned Champs By: AP, UPI
Record: 11-0
Head Coach: John McKay

In 1962, USC was not quite the household name they are now when it comes to powerful programs. John McKay was entering his third season as head coach, the first two ending in 4-6 and 4-5-1 records. To think the Trojans would be able to win a national title was absurd.

But McKay’s plan of slowly building a team his way and getting his system in place took form, and the Trojans scrapped their way to the top, despite powers like Ohio State and Texas being the darling picks to win it all.

While Ole Miss fans like to claim the 1962 title for themselves, the Trojans were named champions by the AP and UPI polls (the two biggest selectors at that time) as well as the Football Writers Association of America, and National Football Foundation.

Next: 1957

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