In the pantheon of college football’s most iconic moments, where narratives are forged in split-second decisions and legends are born from improbable plays, Hunter Renfrow’s “Orange Crush” touchdown stands tall. ESPN, the arbiter of sports highlights and historical significance, has rightly recognized this pivotal score as one of the top 25 college football plays since the turn of the millennium, cementing its place in the annals of gridiron glory. It wasn’t merely a touchdown; it was the culmination of a relentless drive, a testament to a program’s unwavering belief, and the capstone of one of the greatest national championship games in recent memory.
The date was January 9, 2017, and the stage was set in Tampa, Florida, for the College Football Playoff National Championship. The contenders: the reigning champions, the mighty Alabama Crimson Tide, and the hungry, determined Clemson Tigers. This was more than just a title game; it was a rematch of the previous year’s thrilling contest, which Alabama had narrowly won. The air was thick with anticipation, a feeling of destiny hanging over the two premier programs of the era. What unfolded was an instant classic, a back-and-forth heavyweight bout that defied expectations and kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last second.
As the fourth quarter wound down, the intensity reached a fever pitch. Alabama, seemingly in control, had taken a 31-28 lead with just over two minutes remaining after a powerful touchdown run by quarterback Jalen Hurts. For many teams, against a Nick Saban-coached Alabama defense, this would have been the death knell. But Deshaun Watson, Clemson’s superstar quarterback, and the Tigers’ offense, had other plans. What followed was a masterclass in composure and execution.
Watson systematically marched his team down the field, orchestrating a nine-play, 68-yard drive that showcased his uncanny ability to perform under immense pressure. Crucial throws to Mike Williams and Jordan Leggett moved the chains and brought the Tigers into prime scoring position. With seconds ticking away, and the ball positioned precariously at the Alabama two-yard line, the weight of the moment was palpable. There were only six seconds left on the clock. A field goal would tie the game and send it into overtime, a safer, more conservative option. But Coach Dabo Swinney, known for his aggressive and faith-driven approach, wanted the win.
The play call was “Crush,” affectionately dubbed “Orange Crush” by the Clemson faithful in the aftermath. It was a rub route designed to create separation, a common concept but one that required perfect timing and execution against Alabama’s suffocating defense. Hunter Renfrow, the unassuming former walk-on who had consistently defied expectations throughout his collegiate career, was the target. Renfrow, with his deceptive quickness and unparalleled ability to find open spaces, had already been a thorn in Alabama’s side, catching 10 passes for 92 yards and a touchdown earlier in the game. But this one, if successful, would be the most important.
As the ball was snapped, Deshaun Watson rolled to his right. Artavis Scott, aligned outside Renfrow in the slot, executed a subtle pick play, brushing against Alabama cornerback Marlon Humphrey just enough to create a sliver of space. It was a play that would be debated for years, with some calling it an illegal pick and others praising its strategic brilliance. But in the moment, it was effective. Renfrow, sensing the opening, sprinted towards the pylon, wide open. Watson, with ice in his veins, delivered a crisp, low pass that Renfrow snagged cleanly, his feet landing squarely in the end zone. Touchdown.
The crowd erupted. The scoreboard flashed 35-31. One second remained on the clock. It was over. Clemson, against all odds, had avenged their previous loss and dethroned the mighty Crimson Tide, securing their first national championship since 1981. The jubilation on the Clemson sideline was unbridled, a pure outpouring of emotion. On the other side, the stunned faces of Alabama players and coaches reflected the agony of defeat, the sudden, crushing end to their dynasty.
The “Orange Crush” play is so much more than just a two-yard touchdown catch. It’s a symbol of perseverance. Hunter Renfrow, a walk-on who wasn’t even offered a scholarship by FCS schools, became the hero of college football’s biggest stage. His journey from an unheralded prospect to a national champion epitomized the underdog spirit. It represented the relentless belief of a coaching staff in its players and a team in its collective ability.
Furthermore, the play cemented Deshaun Watson’s legacy as one of the greatest college quarterbacks of all time. His ability to remain calm, process the defense, and deliver a perfect throw in the most high-pressure situation imaginable underscored his elite talent and leadership. The drive itself was a masterclass in late-game execution, a testament to the thousands of hours of practice and preparation that went into perfecting such moments.
ESPN’s inclusion of “Orange Crush” among the top 25 plays since 2000 speaks to its enduring impact and dramatic flair. In a list filled with incredible feats – from Auburn’s “Kick-Six” to Boise State’s “Statue of Liberty” and Vince Young’s epic run against USC – Renfrow’s touchdown holds its own because of its narrative power. It was the decisive blow in a truly epic championship battle, a moment that altered the course of college football history and launched Clemson into an undisputed elite tier.
For Clemson fans, “Orange Crush” is not just a highlight; it’s a cherished memory, a moment forever etched in their hearts and minds. It’s the play that validated Dabo Swinney’s vision and proved that their program could stand toe-to-toe with, and ultimately defeat, the best in the nation. For casual observers, it’s a prime example of the unpredictable magic of college football, a game where one second can define a season, a career, and a legacy. The two-yard catch will forever be a testament to Hunter Renfrow’s quiet brilliance, Deshaun Watson’s clutch gene, and Clemson’s unyielding spirit, a moment of pure “Orange Crush” that reverberates through time.
