Reviewed by: Caleb Turrentine
40 years after ‘The Kick’: is it the greatest Iron Bowl play in Legion Field history?
Reading time: 3 minutes
It is hard to believe, four decades ago on Nov. 30, 1985, Alabama kicker Van Tiffin ran onto Legion Field with six seconds left on the clock to kick a game-winning 52-yard field goal.
In celebration of the 40th anniversary of “The Kick” we ask — Was that the greatest Iron Bowl play in Legion Field history? Below are some of our favorite Legion Field Iron Bowl games.
The Kick: Van Tiffin nails game-winning field goal
In addition to “The Kick” the 1985 Iron Bowl has been called by many one of the greatest games played at the Old Gray Lady, with the lead changing four times in the fourth quarter alone.
Here is Tiffin’s description of the game and “the Kick.”
Bo Over the top
Snapping a nine game winning streak, freshman Bo Jackson scored the go ahead touchdown with a leap over the goal line to propel Auburn to a 23-22 victory.
Fun Fact: Both Jackson and Tiffin played major roles in the 1984 Iron Bowl. The infamous “Wrong Way Bo” play occurred again at the goal line when Auburn pitched the ball to Brent Fullwood. Unfortunately, Jackson, who was the lead blocker, went the wrong way. Tiffin on the other hand, earlier in the game, kicked the go ahead field goal that gave the Tide a 17-7 lead. They won 17-15.
Punt Bama Punt – Lightning strikes twice
A top-ten 1972 match-up between #2 Alabama v. #9 Auburn, the Tide was winning 16-3 late in the 4th quarter before Auburn blocked two punts for touchdowns giving them a 17-16 win.
Look how each ball bounces up on that first generation hard artificial turf.
Ken Stabler’s Run in the Mud
If you ever wonder why Ken Stabler’s nickname was the “Snake” – watch this incredible 47-yard winning touchdown against Auburn in the mud at Legion Field.
Interested in more facts and numbers about the big game?
Our sister publication The Bama Buzz published an entertaining story about the 10 memorable rivalry stats you can talk about during this week’s game.
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