http://blog.al.com/bamabeat/2008/10/nick_saban_looks_back_on_the_b.html
The last Kentucky saw of Alabama coach Nick Saban, he was walking off the field in a purple shirt, nearly speechless at what he had just witnessed.
It’s probably the most amazing play in SEC football history. Dubbed forever as “The Bluegrass Miracle”, former LSU quarterback Marcus Randall fired a 74-yard hail mary pass on the game’s final play to give the Tigers an incredible 33-30 victory during the 2002 season.
The ball deflected off receiver Michael Clayton and reached Devery Henderson in stride. He raced into the end zone, stunning UK fans who were already storming the field in delight. At the time, Saban shrugged that it was “a lucky play” and added, “I don’t know what to say.”
Saban was asked again about the play today and had this to say …
“Well, we’ve lost them like that, too. We lost one in Cleveland when I was the defensive coordinator. They throw the jump ball up the last play of the game, somebody tips it up and somebody doesn’t do what they’re supposed to do and you end up losing it. So I’ve been on both sides of the fence.
“I think what people don’t remember about that game is we threw a pass before that to even get in position to have a chance. … But we were fortunate to have the wind in the fourth quarter. There was a big wind that day, and we had it in the fourth quarter, and I think the guy (Randall) threw the ball farther than he could ever throw it because we had the wind. And they actually misjudged the ball.
al.com
10/1/08
Magnolia Tribune
