1988 National Championship

The 1988 National Championship refers to the college football title game played on January 1, 1989, at the Orange Bowl. The matchup featured the top-ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the second-ranked West Virginia Mountaineers. Notre Dame won the game, 34-21, securing their 11th national title. Notably, this game is remembered for Notre Dame's strong defense and the standout performance of quarterback Tony Rice. The victory reaffirmed Notre Dame's status as a powerhouse in college football during that era.