By Darin Over a decade-and-a-half ago, college football fans witnessed one of the most tightly contested National Championship games of the modern era. On January 11, 2011, the undefeated No. 1 Auburn Tigers, led by Heisman winner Cam Newton, collided with Chip Kelly’s explosive No. 2 Oregon Ducks in the BCS National Championship. This matchup was billed as a clash of styles: Auburn’s powerful, Newton-led offense against Oregon’s dizzying, rapid-fire speed. What ensued was a defensive grind that defied expectations and produced a conclusion that felt more like a Hollywood script than a football game.
The entire contest was an intense, back-and-forth battle, shattering the pre-game hype of a high-scoring shootout. Auburn relied heavily on the sheer power and presence of Cam Newton, who accounted for over 260 yards, while the Oregon Ducks fought to keep pace using their unique offensive tempo. After a fierce struggle, the game was surprisingly knotted at 19-19 in the final moments of the fourth quarter. It seemed destined for overtime, a fitting end for such an evenly matched contest between two historic programs.
Article from Jan 12, 2011 The Huntsville Times (Huntsville, Alabama)
However, fate—and a missed tackle—intervened. On a pivotal late-game run, Auburn’s Michael Dyer somehow escaped a tackle and stumbled, but miraculously kept his balance and rushed 37 yards deep into Oregon territory. The chaotic play was reviewed and ultimately stood, setting the stage for a dramatic finale. With just seconds left on the clock, Auburn kicker Wes Byrum stepped onto the field. Byrum, a veteran clutch performer, calmly drilled a 19-yard field goal as the clock hit zero, delivering the Auburn Tigers a momentous 22-19 victory and the BCS National Championship title.
This 2011 classic remains a defining moment in college football history, proving that even with superstars like Cam Newton on the field, championships are often won in the final, breathtaking seconds by a single, perfectly executed kick.
