Sugar Bowl Winner Year by Year

The Sugar Bowl stands as an enduring emblem of American college football, an annual spectacle that has graced the city of New Orleans, Louisiana, since its inaugural kickoff on January 1, 1935. Alongside the Orange Bowl and Sun Bowl, it claims its place among the nation's second-oldest bowl games, second only to the illustrious Rose Bowl Game. Hosted primarily at the iconic Caesars Superdome and previously at Tulane Stadium, its legacy spans decades, showcasing the sport's evolution and excellence.

Operating steadfastly since its inception, the Sugar Bowl has evolved through affiliations with significant championships like the College Football Playoff (CFP) and the Bowl Championship Series (BCS). With historic ties to conferences like the SEC and the Big 12, its allure lies not just in tradition but in the hefty payout of $17 million per team, reflecting its prominence in the college football landscape. The game's legacy continues to unfold, eagerly awaited each year, maintaining its pivotal role in the sport's narrative.

Sugar Bowl Sponsorship and Broadcasting Rights

The Sugar Bowl's journey through sponsorship and broadcasting rights has been a testament to its enduring legacy in college football. A trio of influential sponsors—USF&G Financial Services, Nokia, and the ongoing partnership with Allstate Insurance—has provided the game with financial stability and elevated its prominence since 1988. These sponsorships have not only infused the event with capital but also solidified its brand recognition in the sports world.

In the realm of broadcasting, the Sugar Bowl has navigated diverse networks, from ABC to NBC, Fox, and eventually ESPN. ABC held a significant tenure during the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) era, and the game's transition to ESPN marked a turning point, amplifying its global viewership. ESPN's groundbreaking deal securing broadcast rights until 2026, with an annual investment of $55 million, underscores the game's undeniable appeal and ESPN's commitment to showcasing premier college football events. This partnership ensures the Sugar Bowl's continued prominence and cements its place as a pinnacle of sporting excellence.

Sugar Bowl Winner List

The Sugar Bowl, a marquee event in college football hosted at the iconic Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, boasts a rich history of memorable matchups. The list of victors spans decades, showcasing powerhouse teams and unforgettable performances. Rankings preceding the game, often aligned with the AP Poll, have witnessed intense battles, with some outcomes etching their names into history. Each year, the event delivers high stakes, with a substantial payout of US$17 million per team since 2014, adding to the prestige of claiming victory in this esteemed bowl game.

Rose Bowl Appearances and win–loss Records

The Rose Bowl, spanning 89 games and 178 appearances as of December 2022, embodies college football's legacy. Teams with solitary visits, like Boston College and Navy, etched victories while others, including Hawai'i and Wyoming, tasted defeat. Yet, the 2010 Ohio State Buckeyes' vacated wins, despite a triumphant 2011 Sugar Bowl, hint at controversy. Curiously, the absence of Pac-12 teams in the Sugar Bowl adds a unique facet. The Rose Bowl's tapestry, adorned with victories and setbacks, resonates with an enduring legacy, enigmatic histories, and the spirit of collegiate football's enduring allure.

Teams with multiple appearances

Sugar Bowl Player of the Game Award

The Miller-Digby Award, the Sugar Bowl's Most Outstanding Player (MOP), is bestowed upon the standout athlete as determined by sports journalists covering the game. Originating in 1948 to commemorate Warren V. Miller, the Bowl's inaugural president, it was later renamed in 1959 to honor Fred J. Digby, a founding member additionally. In years when the Sugar Bowl serves as a CFP semifinal, both offensive and defensive MVPs are recognized, a practice observed in 2015, 2018, and 2021. This prestigious accolade underscores exceptional performance and contributions to the game's success.

Sugar Bowl Hall of Fame

The Sugar Bowl Hall of Fame, founded in 2017, celebrates the event's rich history. Originating from a vision presented in 1927 by Colonel James M. Thompson and sports editor Fred Digby, the inaugural game in 1935 featured Tulane and Temple, both generously compensated despite initial skepticism. Digby's persistence in advocating for New Orleans' role in football ultimately led to the cherished tradition of the Sugar Bowl.