MacArthur Bowl Recipients
Biography
Alabama, the 2009 SEC Champions, defeated Texas, the 2009 Big 12 Champions, marking the Crimson Tide's first national title since 1992. The 1992 Alabama team, coached by Gene Stallings, finished undefeated (13-0) after a 34-13 victory against the Miami Hurricanes in the Sugar Bowl. In addition to the 2009 and 1992 championships, Alabama claimed the MacArthur Trophy in 1961, 1978 and 1979 under Hall of Fame Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant.
The national title is the first for Alabama during the BCS era, which began in 1998, and the second for Coach Nick Saban who led the LSU Tigers to the BCS crown in 2003. Saban becomes the first coach in the AP Poll era, which began in 1936, to win national titles with two different schools, and the second coach to win two titles during the BCS era along with Florida Coach Urban Meyer.
Representing the pinnacle of team achievement in college sports, the trophy was the gift of an anonymous donor, who commissioned Tiffany & Co. to craft it from 400 ounces of silver, in honor of NFF founder General Douglas A. MacArthur. It took eight months to make, and the trophy features MacArthur's famous quote: "There is no substitute for victory." The 2009 Alabama team will now have its name etched on the silver trophy, which will visit Tuscaloosa, Ala., until the 2010 champions claim it. Last year, more than 500,000 people saw the trophy while it was on display in Gainesville, Fla., after the Florida Gators' victory in the title game.
