David Langner, Auburn’s hero in the famous “Punt, Bama, Punt” game against Alabama, has died after battling cancer. Langner was 62 years old.
Decades before Chris Davis returned a missed field goal attempt for a touchdown to clinch the SEC West on the final play of the game, it was Langner who authored one of the most improbable victories in Auburn history. In the fourth quarter of the 1972 Iron Bowl against Alabama, Langner returned two blocked punts for touchdowns as the Tigers stunned the Crimson Tide, 17-16.
“David Langner was one of Auburn’s greats who will be remembered by generations to come,” said Auburn athletics director Jay Jacobs, according to Auburn. “He was a fierce competitor who fought cancer as hard as he fought any opponent he faced. I know the entire Auburn family joins me in offering our sympathy and prayers to his family.”
Langnard got into the car business after his playing days and retired just last year, according to the Opelika-Auburn News.