Stage Set for Big Eight Showdown
Defending national champions, the Oklahoma Sooners (9-1), traveled north to face their toughest test: the #5 Nebraska Cornhuskers (9-1). A win or tie secured the Big Eight title for Oklahoma, while Nebraska needed a victory to erase an earlier loss to Colorado.
Shifting Tides in the Big Eight
The game marked a turning point in the Big Eight rivalry. In the 1970s, it was Oklahoma dominating under coach Barry Switzer, while the 80s saw Nebraska rise to prominence under Tom Osborne. Both teams had tasted national championship frustration, with Oklahoma falling short in the Orange Bowl and Nebraska suffering their own heartbreaking losses.
Defensive Dominance
Switzer brought a juggernaut defense, statistically one of the best in college football history. Led by linebackers Brian Bosworth and Dante Jones, and defensive backs David Vickers and Rickey Dixon, they shut out five opponents and allowed a mere 5.6 points per game. Nebraska countered with a strong defense anchored by Danny Noonan, Broderick Thomas, Marc Munford, and Charles Fryar.
A Game of Momentum Swings
Nebraska struck first with a touchdown run by Keith Jones, ending Oklahoma’s shutout streak. The Sooners responded with a rushing touchdown by Jamelle Holieway. A field goal by Nebraska gave them a 10-7 lead heading into halftime.
The Huskers extended their lead in the third quarter with a touchdown pass from Steve Taylor to Rod Smith. Oklahoma answered with a field goal in the fourth, but still trailed 17-10.
Sooner Magic Strikes in the Final Minutes
With under four minutes left, Oklahoma faced a critical fourth down deep in their own territory. A fumble recovered by Nebraska seemed to seal their fate. However, a facemask penalty granted them a reprieve. The Sooners capitalized by driving down the field and finding Keith Jackson for a touchdown. A successful extra point tied the game at 17-17 with just over a minute remaining.
Nebraska’s final offensive drive sputtered, giving Oklahoma the ball back with a chance to win. After an incomplete pass, a clutch third-down throw from Holieway found a streaking Jackson for a 41-yard gain, putting them in field goal range. Kicker Tim Lasher delivered the game-winning kick with just six seconds left, securing a dramatic 20-17 victory for Oklahoma.
Sooner Victory and Beyond
This comeback win propelled Oklahoma to their second consecutive Big Eight title and a return trip to the Orange Bowl. It also marked a shift in power within the conference, with Oklahoma reclaiming the rushing title from Nebraska. Nebraska’s loss dropped them to third place, signifying the end of their recent dominance. The 1986 game in Lincoln was a classic Big Eight battle, showcasing elite defenses and a thrilling finish.
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