Chris Davis: The Lasting Legacy Of Auburn’s 'Kick Six' Hero
As of August 2, 2026, Chris Davis remains one of the most iconic figures in college football history, forever etched into the lore of the Iron Bowl for his miraculous 109-yard missed field goal return. While his playing days on the field have concluded, his influence on the Auburn University football program and the legacy of the 2013 season continues to resonate with fans and analysts alike.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Subject | Chris Davis |
| Primary Association | Auburn University Football |
| Key Achievement | 109-yard return vs. Alabama (2013) |
| Current Status | Alumni & Former Collegiate Athlete |
| Date of Reference | August 2, 2026 |
Context & Background
The legendary moment occurred on November 30, 2013, during the 78th Iron Bowl between Auburn and Alabama. With the game tied at 28-28 and only one second remaining on the clock, Alabama attempted a 57-yard field goal. After the kick fell short of the goalposts, Chris Davis—stationed deep in the end zone—caught the ball and sprinted down the sideline, untouched, to secure a 34-28 victory for the Tigers.
This play, colloquially known as the "Kick Six," is widely considered the greatest finish in the history of the sport. It propelled Auburn to the SEC Championship and eventually the BCS National Championship Game. Beyond the single play, Davis had a productive career at Auburn as a cornerback, proving himself a reliable defensive back and a dangerous return specialist. Following his collegiate success, he spent time in the NFL, signing with the San Diego Chargers and later the San Francisco 49ers, navigating the professional landscape with the same versatility that defined his time at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
Impact & Utility
The "Kick Six" changed the trajectory of the Auburn football program for a generation. It shifted the competitive balance of the Auburn-Alabama rivalry and established a high bar for dramatic finishes in college football. For students and alumni, Chris Davis is not just a former player; he represents the resilience and "Anything is Possible" mantra that characterizes the spirit of the Auburn football program.
His impact transcends the box score. By demonstrating the importance of staying engaged on special teams until the final whistle blows, Davis provided a blueprint for situational awareness that coaches still utilize in training sessions today. His story serves as a perennial case study on how individual effort can define team success in high-pressure environments. As of mid-2026, Davis’s jersey remains a staple in fan collections, and highlight reels featuring his sprint are still staple viewing during Iron Bowl week every November.
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What's Next
As we move through the 2026 college football season, the legacy of the 2013 team continues to serve as an inspiration for the current roster. While Davis has largely transitioned away from the spotlight of professional competition, his association with Auburn remains strong. Fans frequently look back at his contribution during anniversaries of the game, and his name is consistently invoked whenever the Tigers find themselves in a "do-or-die" scenario in the final seconds of a matchup.
The university continues to honor its historical titans through various legacy programs and alumni events. While no formal coaching or administrative role has been publicly announced for Davis as of August 2026, his status as a permanent fixture in SEC lore is cemented. Auburn supporters can expect his highlight to remain a central feature of the pre-game hype sequences that ignite the stadium crowd before every major conference battle. The "Kick Six" remains the gold standard for dramatic sports endings, a testament to a singular moment of brilliance that will never be erased from the record books.
