College football's bowl season delivered a historic spectacle the day after Christmas as Toledo edged out Pittsburgh 48-46 in a six-overtime marathon, marking the most extra periods ever witnessed in a bowl game. The GameAbove Sports Bowl, held on Thursday, stretched nearly five hours, captivating fans with its unprecedented back-and-forth action.

Toledo quarterback Tucker Gleason (4) advances the ball during the first half. (Kimberly P. Mitchell/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

While overtime in college football was introduced in 1996, this game etched its place in the record books. Just a month prior, Georgia and Georgia Tech battled through eight overtimes, and the all-time record stands at nine from a 2021 Illinois-Penn State clash. This GameAbove Sports Bowl, however, set a new standard for postseason drama.

Toledo, initially trailing 12-6 in the first half, swiftly turned the tide with two touchdowns in a mere 14 seconds – a 67-yard pass followed by a 40-yard interception return – to seize a 20-12 advantage. Pitt fought back to lead 30-20, but Toledo leveled the score with just under five minutes remaining in regulation.

Pittsburgh quarterback David Lynch is sacked by Toledo's D'Andre Ragin. (Kimberly P. Mitchell/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

Both teams traded field goals in the first two overtime periods. Under current rules, starting with the third overtime, teams must attempt two-point conversions. Both teams successfully converted their first three attempts. The game ultimately concluded in the sixth overtime when Toledo secured their fourth consecutive two-point conversion, while Pitt's pass attempt fell incomplete.

Adding to the dramatic narrative, Toledo celebrated prematurely in the fourth overtime after a defensive stop, only to have the play called back due to a penalty. A subsequent apparent stop was overturned by replay review, extending the contest. Despite the rollercoaster of emotions, the Rockets ultimately persevered.

Toledo's Tucker Gleason showcased his versatility, completing 26 of 50 passes for 336 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, while also adding a rushing touchdown. Junior Vandeross III contributed significantly with 12 receptions for 194 yards and a touchdown.

Despite the loss, Pitt's Desmond Reid delivered a strong performance, rushing for 165 yards on 32 carries.

Toledo's Anthony Torres gains yardage after a catch against Pittsburgh's Brandon George. (Kimberly P. Mitchell/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

This victory improved Toledo's bowl game record to 12-10, marking their fourth consecutive bowl appearance. Pitt, on the other hand, missed a bowl game last year after winning the 2022 Sun Bowl.