First Time Ever

On December 2, 1989, the undefeated Alabama Crimson Tide did something they'd sworn they'd never do: They came to Auburn to play the Iron Bowl. How it happened, after years of threats and lawsuits and refusals to even discuss the possibility, is a story as riveting as the game that unfolded on the field that Saturday afternoon. Van Allen Plexico and John Ringer, co-hosts of the AU Wishbone Podcast, trace the greatest rivalry in football from its dawning in Birmingham to the epic showdown on the Plains. Along the way they expose the roots of the animosity between the two universities, the numerous ways Alabama has tried to get its way in every dispute with Auburn--and the consequences when they don't. Then they break down the game itself--what happened, play-by-play, how and why--from Tiger Walk to Toomer's Corner, and beyond. Some said it would never happen. On December 2, 1989, it did happen. This is the complete story of that day--possibly the greatest day in Auburn football history--as only the AU Wishbone can tell it.