Remembering the Horns, Hogs 1969 'Game of the Century'

Few games in college football history have ever had the honor of being called "The Game of the Century." One such esteemed contest is that of Arkansas and Texas on Dec. 6, 1969, in a game that would soon be known as "The Big Shootout."

With President Richard Nixon and evangelist Billy Graham in attendance, No. 1 Texas and No. 2 Arkansas played in a game that took all 60 minutes to decide.

ABC Flexes 'Game of the Century'

Arkansas and Texas were set to square off in October 1969, but ABC, seeking a marquee matchup to close the 1969 season, politely asked the schools to move the date of the game to Dec. 6. Both parties agreed, and ABC had setup one of the greatest matchups in college football history. With both teams at 9-0, the winner of the December showdown had a clear path to being crowned national champion.

The chilly, icy weather in Fayetteville, Ark., made for a sloppy game. Two Texas fumbles at the start of each respective half granted Arkansas a 14-0 lead, which would've been more if not for an untimely penalty. The stifling Arkansas defense forced 6 total turnovers, making the venerable Texas wishbone offense look like a lost puppy in the thick fog of Northwest Arkansas.

Turning Point

Unfortunately for the Razorbacks, their trip with destiny all came crashing down in an instant.

Texas chopped the Arkansas lead down to 8 on a 42-yard rushing touchdown by QB James Street. After the ensuing 2-point conversion was successful, the pressure was back on the Razorbacks with the fourth quarter looming.

The two teams stayed stagnant on the scoreboard until just under 4 minutes to play, when Texas capped off a six-play, 64-yard drive with a rushing touchdown from halfback Jim Bertelsen. With Texas having gone for two on their previous touchdown drive, the extra point was all the Longhorns needed to take the lead.