Editor's Note: On December 2, 1972, the Alabama Crimson Tide led the Auburn Tigers 16-0 with just over six minutes remaining. What happened next became known as "Punt Bama Punt," one of the most remarkable comebacks in Iron Bowl history and a moment that Auburn fans still celebrate today.
The Dominance
For three quarters, Alabama completely dominated the game. The Crimson Tide's defense, led by the legendary Bear Bryant, had suffocated Auburn's offense. Alabama quarterback Terry Bradshaw (no, not that one) had guided the team to a comfortable 16-0 lead with a touchdown run and two field goals.
Auburn, coached by Ralph "Shug" Jordan, seemed utterly incapable of moving the ball against Alabama's defense. The Tigers had managed only 70 total yards and two first downs through the first three quarters. The game appeared all but over, with Alabama cruising to another victory over their in-state rivals.
Bear Bryant, Alabama Head Coach
"We had them right where we wanted them. The defense was playing perfect football. We were just six minutes away from another win over Auburn. There was no way they could come back on us."
The First Block
With just over six minutes remaining, Alabama lined up to punt from their own 34-yard line. What happened next shocked everyone in Legion Field. Auburn defensive end Ken Stabler (yes, that Ken Stabler—the future NFL star who played both ways at Auburn) burst through the line and blocked the punt.
The ball bounced toward the end zone, and Auburn defensive back Bill Newton recovered it at the Alabama 7-yard line. Two plays later, Auburn quarterback Pat Sullivan hit tailback Sullivan Walker for a touchdown, making the score 16-7. Suddenly, there was hope.
Bill Newton, Auburn Defensive Back
"When I saw Ken get through the line, I just started running toward the ball. I knew if I could get to it, we had a chance to score. When I caught it and saw we were at their 7, I thought, 'We're back in this game.'"
The Second Block
Alabama, now leading 16-7, still felt in control. They forced Auburn to punt on their next possession, and the Crimson Tide offense took over with a chance to run out the clock. But Alabama couldn't move the ball, and they faced another punt situation just three minutes later.
This time, it was David Beckwith who broke through Alabama's protection and blocked the punt. Again, Bill Newton was there to recover the ball, this time at the Alabama 2-yard line. The stadium erupted as fans realized Auburn was about to have another chance to score.
David Beckwith, Auburn Linebacker
"Coach Jordan always told us, 'Never give up on a play.' I saw their punter getting ready, and I just went for it. When I felt my hand hit the ball, I knew we had done something special. To see Bill recover it again was incredible."
The Game-Winning Touchdown
With the ball at the 2-yard line, Auburn handed off to tailback Heath Caylor, who plunged into the end zone for the touchdown. The extra point was good, and Auburn had miraculously taken a 17-16 lead with just minutes remaining.
Alabama had one final possession, but Auburn's defense, energized by the comeback, held firm. The Crimson Tide couldn't move the ball, and when the clock hit zero, Legion Field erupted in celebration as Auburn had completed one of the most improbable comebacks in Iron Bowl history.
Pat Sullivan, Auburn Quarterback
"I can't describe the feeling in that huddle after that second blocked punt. We knew we had them. The momentum had completely shifted. To score the winning touchdown after being down 16-0—there's nothing like it in football."
The Aftermath
The "Punt Bama Punt" game became an instant classic and is still remembered as one of the greatest moments in Auburn football history. The victory was especially sweet for Auburn fans, as it denied Alabama a shot at the national championship.
For Alabama, it was a devastating loss. Bear Bryant, known for his intense focus and preparation, had to explain how his team had let a 16-0 lead slip away in the final minutes. The loss would haunt the Crimson Tide for years to come.
Ralph "Shug" Jordan, Auburn Head Coach
"That's what makes the Iron Bowl special. You're never out of it until the clock hits zero. Our players never gave up, and they were rewarded with one of the greatest victories in school history. I'll never forget that day as long as I live."
Legacy
"Punt Bama Punt" remains one of the most iconic phrases in Alabama sports history. The game represents everything that makes the Iron Bowl special—dramatic comebacks, unexpected heroes, and moments that become part of college football lore.
For Auburn fans, it's a testament to never giving up and the belief that anything can happen when these two teams meet. For Alabama fans, it's a reminder that no lead is ever safe against their biggest rival.
The 1972 Iron Bowl proved that football games aren't won on paper—they're won on the field, with heart, determination, and sometimes a little bit of magic. And on that December day in Birmingham, Auburn had all the magic they needed.