This image was available as a limited edition print. It is SOLD OUT.

BACK     NEXT

Desperation Block

     October 28, 1989. Bama leads Penn State by a point and only 13 seconds left on the Beaver Stadium clock.  The ball is at the 1-yard line -- put there by the Nittany Lions' offense, who have just marched eighty yards down field with scary and apparent ease. Most everyone thinks that Penn State will just waltz it right on in for an easy six points.  But, in what will become a controversial decision, Joe Paterno decides to send in Ray Tarasi for the "chip shot" field goal. Thomas Rayam, the 6-foot, 7-inch Bama defender would have none of that nonsense.  He stuffs it back into Penn State's face and the Tide escapes with a narrow 17-16 win.