By Darin Introduction
The December 2, 1972, Iron Bowl is forever enshrined in rivalry lore by three unforgettable words: “Punt, Bama, Punt.” This historic day saw the undefeated, No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide clinging to a lead, seemingly cruising toward another victory over the No. 9 Auburn Tigers. But in the span of six electrifying minutes late in the fourth quarter, Auburn’s special teams executed a miracle that defied all expectations. This is the story of how a walk-on linebacker and a defensive back delivered a stunning, come-from-behind victory that remains one of the greatest upsets in college football history.
The Unthinkable Final Minutes
Alabama led 16-3 deep into the fourth quarter. Auburn’s offense, stifled all afternoon, desperately needed a spark, but instead, they got a lightning strike from their defense and special teams. With just over six minutes left, Alabama was forced to punt. Auburn’s walk-on linebacker, Bill Newton, burst through the line and blocked the punt. Defensive back David Langner scooped up the ball and returned it for a touchdown. Suddenly, the score was 16-10.
Moments later, Alabama was again forced to punt. The air in Legion Field was thick with tension, but Auburn’s special teams unit was ready. Newton, displaying incredible focus and timing, surged through the protection and blocked the kick again! Once more, Langner grabbed the loose ball and sprinted untouched into the end zone. The 14-point swing—all created by two blocked punts and two returns in a matter of minutes—gave Auburn an unbelievable 17-16 lead.
A Legend Is Forged
The final score, 17-16, sealed the deal and instantly turned Bill Newton and David Langner into Auburn legends. The sheer shock of the comeback, orchestrated not by offense or defense, but by special teams repeatedly disrupting a routine play, became the defining moment of the rivalry for a generation. It was a victory that proved that in the Iron Bowl, no lead is safe, and every single play is crucial.
Conclusion
The December 2, 1972, “Punt, Bama, Punt” game stands as one of the most remarkable exhibitions of special teams brilliance and rivalry intensity ever recorded. The stunning 17-16 victory over the undefeated Crimson Tide immortalized Bill Newton and David Langner and proved that heart, hustle, and the chaos of the Iron Bowl can overcome overwhelming odds.
Article from Dec 3, 1972 The Selma Times-Journal (Selma, Alabama)