Alabama’s 89-0 Victory Over Delta State in 1951: A Historic Football Triumph
On September 21, 1951, the University of Alabama’s football team achieved one of the most lopsided victories in college football history, defeating Delta State University 89–0 at the Cramton Bowl in Montgomery, Alabama. This game remains Alabama’s most decisive win in the past century and stands as a testament to the dominance of the Crimson Tide during that era.
The game was a season opener for Alabama, and the Crimson Tide wasted no time asserting their superiority. In the first quarter alone, Alabama scored three touchdowns: a 30-yard run by Bobby Marlow, a 27-yard run by James Melton, and an 11-yard touchdown pass from Clell Hobson to Joe Curtis. By halftime, the score had ballooned to 35–0, with additional touchdowns from Larry Chiodetti (36-yard run) and Joe Compton (3-yard run).
The second half saw Alabama continue its offensive onslaught. In the third quarter, Bobby Marlow added a 51-yard touchdown run, George McCain connected with Chiodetti for a 15-yard touchdown pass, Bobby Luna scored on a 1-yard run, and Luna threw a 46-yard touchdown pass to Thomas Tharp. The fourth quarter featured more of the same, with Tommy Lewis (63-yard run), Luna (44-yard run), Tharp (11-yard run), and Hobson (19-yard run) all reaching the end zone. In total, Alabama scored in every quarter, showcasing their offensive prowess and depth.
The Crimson Tide’s offense was not only prolific but also efficient. They amassed a total of 553 yards compared to Delta State’s 163 yards, demonstrating a clear disparity in talent and execution. The offensive line provided stellar protection, allowing the quarterbacks ample time to execute plays, while the running backs showcased speed and agility in breaking through the Statesmen’s defense.
Defensively, Alabama was equally formidable. The defensive line dominated the line of scrimmage, consistently pressuring the Delta State quarterbacks and disrupting their offensive schemes. Linebackers and defensive backs were quick to react, limiting Delta State’s opportunities and forcing turnovers. The defensive unit’s performance was a key factor in the shutout victory.
For Delta State, the game was a challenging experience. A true freshman on the team recalled playing the entire second half, as their all-conference center had been overwhelmed by Alabama’s nose guard and opted out. After the game, the Delta State coach expressed frustration over the loss, to which a player humorously suggested that Alabama had “eased up” on them. This anecdote highlights the overwhelming nature of the defeat and the resilience of the Delta State players.
The 89–0 victory over Delta State was not just a statistical anomaly but also a reflection of Alabama’s dominance in college football during the early 1950s. Under head coach Harold “Red” Drew, the Crimson Tide had a strong season, though they faced challenges in conference play. The team finished with a 6–4 record, including losses to LSU, Vanderbilt, Villanova, and Georgia Tech. Despite these setbacks, the Delta State game remained a highlight of the season and a testament to the team’s potential.
This game also holds a special place in the history of college football due to its rarity. While Alabama’s 110–0 victory over the Marion Military Institute in 1922 is the largest margin of victory in the program’s history, the Delta State game is notable for being the most decisive win in the past 100 years. It stands as a benchmark for future generations, illustrating the heights of excellence that Alabama football has achieved.
In the broader context of college football, the 89–0 victory over Delta State serves as a reminder of the game’s unpredictable nature. While such lopsided scores are rare, they underscore the importance of preparation, execution, and the occasional disparity in talent between teams. For Alabama, the game was a showcase of their capabilities and a moment of pride in their storied history.
In conclusion, Alabama’s 89–0 victory over Delta State in 1951 is more than just a historical footnote; it is a testament to the excellence and dominance that the Crimson Tide have consistently displayed on the football field. The game remains a significant part of Alabama’s football legacy and continues to be remembered as one of the most impressive performances in college football history.
