BOSTON — Four decades ago, Doug Flutie, who won the Heisman Trophy, made a remarkable play that has etched itself into the annals of college football history.
During a thrilling game where Boston College was behind against the reigning champions, Miami, Flutie rolled out to his right and unleashed a Hail Mary pass that connected with receiver Gerard Phalen. Phalen caught the ball while tumbling into the end zone, completing a stunning 48-yard touchdown that clinched the game.
This past Saturday, Flutie and several of his teammates from the 1984 squad were recognized on the field during Boston College’s game against North Carolina, coinciding with the anniversary of that unforgettable Miracle in Miami.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been 40 years already,” Flutie remarked on the sidelines just moments before he stepped out with former teammates as a video showcasing The Play was displayed on the big screens.
The iconic moment still resonates deeply and is cherished by generations of Boston College fans and students, echoing throughout the broader college football landscape.
Flutie expressed his surprise at how his jersey number, 22, remains popular among current students. “It’s humbling to see kids continue to wear it after all this time,” he said.
The memorable game aired on national television on the Friday following Thanksgiving. Ironically, it had initially been planned for an earlier date, but CBS shifted the game due to a scheduling conflict, leading to the highly anticipated matchup between BC and Miami on the holiday weekend.
Flutie reflected on this twist of fate, saying, “It’s interesting how random events can lead to such significant moments. The game being rescheduled for after Thanksgiving made it the most-watched game of that season.”
He noted that both teams were highly ranked, which only heightened the significance of the dramatic pass and reception. A statue of Flutie poised to throw The Pass stands prominently outside Alumni Stadium, where countless fans and visitors frequently take photos.
“In casual conversations, it comes up every day,” Flutie mentioned when asked about how often he discusses the moment. “I always smile when we talk about it.”
A week after the famous pass, the Eagles triumphed over Holy Cross, before Flutie traveled to New York to receive the Heisman Trophy. Their successful season continued with a victory in the 49th Cotton Bowl on New Year’s Day.
Phalen, who was also present on the sidelines, marveled at the fleeting nature of time, saying, “Forty years feels almost unbelievable. I often tell Doug, ‘Thank goodness for social media, it has kept the memory alive for us.’”
Recently, BC’s current head coach Bill O’Brien, who is 55, was asked about his recollections from that time.
“We were enjoying Thanksgiving leftovers in our family room,” he recalled. “My mother was in the kitchen saying a Rosary because she was rooting for Boston College against Miami. My dad, brother, and I were glued to the game.”
“It was such a memorable experience,” he continued. “Everyone recalls exactly where they were when Flutie’s Hail Mary happened.”