The 1984 Iron Bowl produced arguably the strangest play in the rivalry’s history. An unranked, 4-6 Alabama team stunned #11 Auburn 17-15 at Legion Field, thanks largely to a navigational error by Bo Jackson.
The Play
Late in the fourth quarter, Auburn trailed 17-15 but had driven to the Alabama 1-yard line on 4th down. They called a toss sweep to the right for Brent Fullwood. However, Bo Jackson, the lead blocker, ran to the left (“Wrong Way Bo”), leaving Fullwood exposed. Alabama linebacker Rory Turner crashed through the unblocked hole and tackled Fullwood for a loss. The defensive stand saved the game.
A Ray Perkins Masterpiece
The win was a massive upset for Alabama coach Ray Perkins. It salvaged a losing season and denied Auburn a Sugar Bowl berth. It proved that in the Iron Bowl, records truly don’t matter.