10. January 1, 2003 - Oklahoma's first Rose Bowl
In the 2003 Rose Bowl, the Oklahoma Sooners triumphed over the Washington State Cougars with a commanding 34-14 victory. Oklahoma's defense dominated, sacking Cougars quarterback Jason Gesser six times and holding Washington State to a mere 243 total yards. Offensively, the Sooners were led by quarterback Nate Hybl, who threw for 240 yards and two touchdowns, earning the game's MVP honors. Oklahoma's balanced attack, combined with their relentless defense, overwhelmed the Cougars and secured the Sooners their first Rose Bowl win and an impressive 12-2 season.
It meant a lot to Sooner nation to win the Rose Bowl because they never have even been. Conference affiliations prevented the Sooners from ever going to Pasadena. But USC's appearance in the BCS national title game this season opened the door for the Sooners to go bowling in Pasadena. They capitalized on their West coast introduction for sure.