The New Year's Eve Miracle

For those of you who don't know, Vanderbilt is not a perennial football powerhouse. Matter of fact, the last time we made it to a bowl game was 26 years ago. And the last time that Vanderbilt actually WON a bowl game was in 1955. Until now.....

On December 31, 2008, Vanderbilt played #23 Boston College in the Music City Bowl. Jason and I coordinated a massive reunion of friends to all go cheer on our 'Dores back in Nashville. Vanderbilt triumphed "opportunistically" with a final score of 16-14. It was bitterly cold but well worth it all to see friends and to be a part of Vanderbilt history. We tailgated beforehand but due to the frigid temperatures and gusty wind, I spent most of the tailgate huddled in the Explorer with friends and therefore didn't take any pictures (although corn hole did prove to be very popular throughout that whole afternoon).

Here's one group of us early on in the game while it was still light outside. From L-R: me, Tanya, Andi, Ali, Megan and Mary Jane.

Me and Ali.
Tanya and Lee.

Andi, Megan and Mary Jane (she wasn't sure if she was supposed to be in the picture or not, but smiled anyway--I love it!)

Jonathan and Jim even made it to Nashville for the game (they were visiting relatives in Kentucky). It's pretty sad when a Vanderbilt football game has to count as Jonathan's "real college football experience" but we were so glad they both joined us. L-R: Jonathan, Jason and Jim.

Here is Andi's classic look of absolute joy, excitement, and disbelief as Vanderbilt intercepted BC's pass to win the game. You can still see the stunned looks of the guys sitting behind us.

Vandy's football players rushed the field after the game. BC's section was the very empty part of the stands that you can see in the picture. Not a lot of red--Vandy definitely had home field advantage being in Nashville! Also note the new "VU" sign that people are making with their hands. When you see it face-on, it does make a "V" and a "U"--how clever! I think it's cool we're finally getting some recognizable cheers and traditions.

Here's the final score and a picture of Bobby Johnson immediately before he gets doused with Gatorade. See everyone again in another 53 years?!?! We'll be the coolest octogenarians there!