The 2010 Iron Bowl became a defining game of Cam Newton’s Heisman Trophy season. Trailing 24-0 at Bryant-Denny Stadium to a furious Alabama team, Auburn’s perfect season seemed dead. What followed was the greatest comeback in Auburn and Iron Bowl history.
The 24-0 Hole
Alabama surged to a 21-0 lead in the first quarter. Early in the second, with 12:22 remaining, Auburn’s Antoine Carter stripped Mark Ingram after a long reception; the ball rolled through the end zone for a touchback. Alabama later extended its lead to 24-0, but a touchdown pass from Newton to Emory Blake before halftime made it 24-7, a small lifeline that would prove crucial.
The Newton Takeover
Newton finished 13-of-20 for 216 yards and three touchdown passes, and he ran for another score. After halftime, he hit Terrell Zachery for a 70-yard touchdown on Auburn’s second play from scrimmage, then ran in from one yard out in the third quarter. The defense tightened, and Newton’s 7-yard pass to Philip Lutzenkirchen in the fourth quarter gave Auburn a 28-27 lead.
The Stand
Alabama could not retake the lead. Auburn held on to win 28-27, keeping its undefeated season alive and marching on to the BCS National Championship. To this day, “24-0” serves as a rallying cry for the Auburn faithful.