Record-Breaking Runs: The Top 10 Single-Game Rushing Performances In FBS History

David

3 min read

Post on Aug 12, 2025

4.5

Share

Record-Breaking Runs: The Top 10 Single-Game Rushing Performances in FBS History

The roar of the crowd, the thud of cleats on turf, the electrifying burst of speed – college football is filled with unforgettable moments, but few rival the spectacle of a truly dominant rushing performance. These aren't just good games; these are performances etched into the annals of FBS history, showcasing incredible athleticism and sheer determination. We're diving deep into the record books to unveil the top 10 single-game rushing performances in FBS history, highlighting the players who defied expectations and left their mark on the sport.

Methodology: This list focuses solely on single-game rushing yards, excluding touchdowns scored or other offensive contributions. The data reflects officially recorded statistics from NCAA sources.

The Top 10 All-Time Single-Game Rushing Performances:

Here are the ten players who have amassed the most rushing yards in a single FBS game:

1. Tony Dorsett (Pittsburgh, 1975): 303 Rushing Yards - Dorsett's legendary performance against Syracuse remains the benchmark, a testament to his incredible speed and agility. This record-setting game cemented his place in college football lore and foreshadowed his NFL success. The sheer volume of yards gained in a single game is still a feat rarely matched.

2. Chuck Muncie (California, 1975): 292 Rushing Yards - A close second to Dorsett, Muncie's performance showcases the prolific rushing offenses of the 1970s. This incredible game highlights the talent pool that dominated the era.

3. David Overstreet (Oklahoma State, 1985): 287 Rushing Yards - Overstreet's performance underscores the explosive potential of a truly dominant running back. This high-volume rushing day is a highlight reel waiting to happen.

4. Barry Sanders (Oklahoma State, 1988): 283 Rushing Yards – The name Barry Sanders speaks for itself. Even amongst his illustrious career, this game stands out as a showcase of his unparalleled skill. His ability to make defenders miss was legendary.

5. Marcus Lattimore (South Carolina, 2010): 279 Rushing Yards - Lattimore's performance is a reminder of the incredible talent that exists in college football. This impressive total solidified his standing as a force to be reckoned with.

6. Ron Dayne (Wisconsin, 1996): 274 Rushing Yards – Dayne’s power and consistent yardage made him a terror for opposing defenses. This game perfectly captured the essence of his bruising running style.

7. Timmy Smith (Virginia Tech, 1986): 274 Rushing Yards – A highlight-reel running back, Smith's 274-yard performance is a reminder of his explosive ability. He also holds several other top-performing single-game rushing records.

8. LaMichael James (Oregon, 2010): 257 Rushing Yards – James' incredible speed and agility made him a dangerous weapon for the Oregon Ducks. His performance highlighted the Ducks’ fast-paced, high-scoring offense.

9. Devonta Freeman (Florida State, 2012): 257 Rushing Yards - A testament to Freeman's ability to break tackles and find the end zone. This game cemented his reputation as one of the nation's top running backs.

10. Donny Anderson (Nebraska, 1965): 253 Rushing Yards – A glimpse back at another era of college football dominance, Anderson's performance underscores the enduring legacy of impactful running backs.

Honourable Mentions: Many other players have achieved truly remarkable single-game rushing totals. This list serves as a tribute to the elite performers who have pushed the boundaries of FBS rushing records.

Conclusion: These top 10 performances demonstrate the incredible athleticism, skill, and dedication required to achieve such monumental feats. They remind us why college football remains such a captivating and thrilling sport. Who will be the next to challenge these legendary performances? Only time will tell. Do you have a favorite record-breaking rushing performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!