The 2013 Georgia vs. Auburn football game stands as one of the most memorable and dramatic contests in the history of college football. This clash between two Southeastern Conference (SEC) powerhouses was filled with twists, turns, and an ending that left fans breathless. Let's dive into the details of this epic showdown.

Setting the Stage

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the game, let's set the stage. It was November 16, 2013, and the Auburn Tigers, under the guidance of first-year head coach Gus Malzahn, were hosting the Georgia Bulldogs. Auburn had already orchestrated a remarkable turnaround from a dismal 3-9 season the previous year and entered the game with a record of 9-1, ranked #7 in the nation. Georgia, coached by Mark Richt, came in with an 8-2 record and ranked #25. Both teams had aspirations of winning the SEC East and competing for a national championship. The atmosphere at Jordan-Hare Stadium was electric, with fans sensing that they were about to witness something special. The narrative surrounding Auburn’s resurgence added another layer of intrigue. After years of mediocrity, Malzahn had injected new life into the program, and the Tigers were playing with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence. Meanwhile, Georgia, a perennial SEC contender, was looking to assert its dominance and spoil Auburn’s dreams. This game wasn't just about bragging rights; it had significant implications for the SEC title race and the national landscape.

The Game Unfolds

The game started with both teams trading blows. Georgia's offense, led by quarterback Aaron Murray, was efficient, moving the ball effectively against Auburn's defense. Murray, a seasoned veteran, showcased his arm talent and leadership, making key throws to keep the chains moving. On the other side, Auburn's high-octane offense, spearheaded by quarterback Nick Marshall, presented a different challenge. Marshall's dual-threat ability kept Georgia's defense on its toes, as he could hurt them with both his arm and his legs. The first half saw multiple lead changes, with neither team able to establish firm control. Every time one team scored, the other responded, resulting in a seesaw battle that had fans on the edge of their seats. The defenses struggled to contain the opposing offenses, leading to a high-scoring affair. As the clock ticked down in the fourth quarter, the tension reached fever pitch. With the game on the line, every play became magnified, and the margin for error dwindled. The coaching staffs made crucial decisions, and the players dug deep, pushing themselves to the limit in pursuit of victory. The back-and-forth nature of the game kept everyone guessing until the very end.

A Controversial Finish

The final moments of the game are what etched it into college football lore. With seconds remaining on the clock and Georgia trailing by one point, Murray heaved a long pass downfield towards receiver Malcolm Mitchell. The ball was deflected by an Auburn defender, and as it fell towards the ground, another Auburn defender, safety Tray Matthews, appeared to make contact with Mitchell before the ball hit the turf. The officials on the field ruled pass interference, a call that was met with vehement protests from Auburn fans and players. The controversial call gave Georgia an untimed down from the Auburn 15-yard line. Marshall Morgan, Georgia's kicker, came onto the field to attempt a potential game-winning field goal. However, Morgan's kick fell short, sending the Auburn faithful into a frenzy. But wait, the game wasn't over yet. Following the missed field goal, Auburn returner Chris Davis caught the ball deep in his own end zone. With no timeouts remaining, Auburn seemingly had no choice but to down the ball and play for overtime. However, Davis had other ideas. He raced out of the end zone and began weaving his way through the Georgia kickoff team. With a series of miraculous blocks and some incredible speed, Davis ran the entire length of the field, scoring a game-winning touchdown as time expired. The stadium erupted in pandemonium as Auburn players and fans stormed the field in celebration.

The "Kick Six" Legacy

Davis’s improbable return, dubbed the "Kick Six," instantly became one of the most iconic plays in college football history. The sheer improbability of the moment, combined with the stakes of the game, made it an unforgettable spectacle. The play has been replayed countless times on sports networks and social media, ensuring that it will live on in the annals of college football lore. Beyond the immediate excitement, the "Kick Six" had significant ramifications for both teams. For Auburn, it propelled them to an SEC Championship and a berth in the national championship game, where they would eventually lose to Florida State. The victory over Georgia served as a catalyst for their remarkable season, solidifying their status as one of the top teams in the country. For Georgia, the loss was a crushing blow, effectively ending their hopes of competing for a national title. The Bulldogs finished the season strong, but the sting of the defeat lingered. The "Kick Six" became a symbol of the heartbreak and frustration that Georgia fans had endured for years. The play also sparked debates about officiating and the fairness of certain rules. Some argued that the pass interference call that preceded the "Kick Six" was questionable, while others questioned whether Davis should have been allowed to return the missed field goal. Regardless of one's opinion, the "Kick Six" remains a controversial and captivating moment in college football history. The game serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports and the importance of never giving up, even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Key Players and Performances

Aaron Murray (Georgia): Completed 33 of 50 passes for 415 yards and two touchdowns. Murray's performance was a testament to his experience and skill. He remained composed under pressure and made several key throws to keep Georgia in the game. Despite the loss, Murray's performance was one of the best of his career.

Nick Marshall (Auburn): Rushed for 67 yards and two touchdowns while also throwing for 229 yards and a touchdown. Marshall's dual-threat ability posed a constant challenge for the Georgia defense. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Marshall's performance was crucial to Auburn's victory.

Chris Davis (Auburn): His 109-yard missed field goal return for a touchdown will forever be etched in college football history. Davis's return was a moment of pure athleticism and determination. His speed and agility allowed him to navigate through the Georgia kickoff team and score the game-winning touchdown.

Malcolm Mitchell (Georgia): Hauled in eight receptions for 122 yards. Mitchell was Murray's primary target throughout the game. His ability to get open and make contested catches made him a valuable asset for the Georgia offense.

The Coaches

Mark Richt (Georgia): Despite a strong offensive showing, Richt's Bulldogs couldn't hold off Auburn's late-game heroics. Richt's coaching decisions were heavily scrutinized after the game. Some questioned his decision to allow Murray to throw the ball on the final play, while others criticized his team's inability to contain Marshall and Davis.

Gus Malzahn (Auburn): Malzahn's aggressive offensive scheme and never-say-die attitude were on full display. Malzahn's leadership and vision transformed Auburn into a national contender. His ability to inspire his players and make adjustments throughout the game was instrumental in Auburn's success.

The Aftermath

The 2013 Georgia vs. Auburn game had a lasting impact on both programs and the wider college football landscape. Auburn rode the momentum of the victory all the way to the national championship game, while Georgia was left to ponder what might have been. The game also sparked numerous debates about officiating, coaching decisions, and the role of luck in sports. Regardless of one's perspective, the "Kick Six" remains one of the most iconic and unforgettable plays in college football history. It serves as a reminder of the passion, drama, and unpredictability that make the sport so compelling. The game also highlighted the importance of special teams in college football. The "Kick Six" demonstrated that a single play on special teams can change the outcome of a game and have a lasting impact on a program's fortunes. In the years since the game, both Georgia and Auburn have continued to be major players in the SEC. The rivalry between the two schools remains intense, and their annual matchups are always highly anticipated. The "Kick Six" will forever be a part of the lore of this rivalry, serving as a reminder of the incredible moments that can unfold on the gridiron.

Conclusion

The Georgia vs. Auburn game in 2013 was more than just a football game; it was a cultural phenomenon. The "Kick Six" transcended the sport itself, becoming a symbol of hope, despair, and the unpredictable nature of life. The game will continue to be talked about for generations to come, and its legacy will endure as one of the greatest moments in college football history. So, there you have it, folks! The story of the 2013 Georgia vs. Auburn game – a true gridiron classic filled with drama, controversy, and an ending that no one could have predicted. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just a casual observer, this game is a must-know for anyone who appreciates the beauty and chaos of college football.