The Miracle Bowl: A Stunning Comeback in the 1980 Holiday Bowl
The 1980 Holiday Bowl between Brigham Young University (BYU) and Southern Methodist University (SMU) remains one of the most thrilling games in college football history, famously known as the “Miracle Bowl.” Played on December 20, 1980, in San Diego, California, the game is remembered for its breathtaking fourth-quarter drama and a last-second touchdown that secured an improbable victory for BYU.
Heading into the final quarter, BYU found themselves trailing 45–25, with just over four minutes remaining. The Cougars, led by quarterback Jim McMahon, mounted a spectacular comeback that kept fans on the edge of their seats. McMahon, known for his big-play ability, orchestrated a series of quick drives, cutting into the deficit with each possession.
BYU’s rally began with a 3-yard touchdown run by running back Scott Phillips, followed by a 29-yard touchdown pass from McMahon to wide receiver Danny Plater. With the score now 45–39, BYU was still on the hunt, needing another touchdown to secure victory. With just 17 seconds left on the clock, McMahon delivered a perfectly timed 41-yard pass to tight end Clay Brown, who made a leaping catch in the end zone for a touchdown, putting BYU ahead 46–45.
The game’s dramatic final moments left SMU’s players and fans stunned, as the Mustangs had been in control for much of the contest. BYU’s comeback, capped by the last-second touchdown, was a testament to McMahon’s leadership and the Cougars’ resilience.
The Miracle Bowl not only cemented BYU’s place in college football lore but also marked a high point in the program’s history. With the victory, BYU finished the season with a 12–1 record and solidified their status as a national power, while the game itself remains one of the most unforgettable spectacles in sports.
