FRIDAY AFTERNOON VIEWING PARTY: FLORIDA-ALABAMA 2006

Today’s March 30th, which is exactly one-half-year away from September 30th. The last time September 30th fell on a Saturday was in 2006.

That was 11-1/2 years ago, which shouldn’t feel like it was that long. I was fresh out of grad school that fall and a full-fledged working adult. I’m still basically as young as I was then, right?

Well, let’s look at the film. On September 30th, 2006, a dominant SEC team continued its march to a national championship, behind a competent quarterback who would set school passing records, while fending off competition from a younger QB who showed even more promise. Along the way, they easily dispatched a conference foe who hadn’t been to a major bowl game in seven years, and would end the season with a losing record (that would eventually be recorded as a winless season after NCAA sanctions) and a fired head coach.

Okay, 2006 was a long time ago.

Of note in this game:

• John Parker Wilson! I’m not even making a value judgement. I’m just saying his name and leaving the rest to you.
• The ESPN write-up of this game notes that “fifth-ranked Gators beat the Crimson Tide 28-13 to avenge last season’s embarrassing loss.” I pine for the return of days where Alabama can be considered an embarrassing loss.
• Florida’s terrific 1960s throwback uniforms
• Alabama shuffled kickers for this game, after three missed field goals cost them a game the week prior. Some things don’t change, you know.
• Chris Leak threw for 2 TDs, and broke off a career-long 45-yard run that set up a rushing touchdown by backup quarterback and future New York Met Tim Tebow.
• John Parker Wilson

Enjoy!