2008 Orange Bowl
In the wake of the Hokies's defeat, Virginia Tech chose to start a new quarterback and a new offensive plan. Behind freshman Tyrod Taylor, the Hokies rolled to five straight victories, including a win over No. 22 Clemson by 18 points. During the winning streak, Sean Glennon, who had started at quarterback for the Hokies during the first two games of the season, returned to alternate possessions with Taylor in an unusual two-quarterback system. On October 25, the Hokies had a chance to make up for their early-season loss to LSU when they faced No. 2 Boston College on a Thursday night in Blacksburg, Virginia. Though the Hokies dominated for most of the game, Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan managed a late-game comeback to win the game 14–10 with 11 seconds remaining.
2009 Oregon State Beavers football team
For the second straight season the Oregon Ducks denied the Oregon State Beavers a trip to Pasadena to play in the Rose Bowl. This year, however, with the win the Ducks go to the Rose Bowl to play the Ohio State Buckeyes. This Civil War was a see saw battle that was exciting from the opening kick-off. LaMichael James ran for 166 yards on 25 carries that included 3 touchdowns. Jacquizz Rodgers had 64 yards rushing and 73 yards receiving and a touchdown as the two featured backs didn't disappoint. LeGarrette Blount made his return from suspension in the 3rd Quarter sparking the Ducks offense. He finished with 51 yards on 9 carries and a touchdown. The turning point in the game was a critical decision when Mike Riley opted to go for it on 4th and 15 from the Ducks 27-yard line. The pass was incomplete and the Ducks took over. The Ducks ran out the remainder of the clock after converting 2 4th down plays on the drive sealing their ticket to Pasadena. The Beavers fell all the way to the Las Vegas Bowl to play BYU.