Washington U vs Southern Illinois
November 24, 2014
Now in the past coaches, players, and administrators never let a little inclement weather or other difficulty get in the way of a football game. I've told stories about games played in lightning storms and hurricanes.
One of the lesser known such stories took place in the heartland, during a 1933 game between Washington University of St. Louis and Southern Illinois University, with the game being played at Washington U's stadium in St. Louis.
The Saluki fans traveled well and were fairly rowdy for that or any other era, banging on cowbells and stomping their feet throughout the contest. The old stadium rocked as Southern Illinois built a 21-10 lead. Washington U came back and scored with about 4 minutes left to pull within four points.
Washington got the ball back after a punt and moved down the field in the final minute and were facing a 4th and 3 at the Southern Illinois 17 yard line. The Saluki fans stomped louder and louder as the entire stadium seemed to sway. The Washington U running back took the handoff and broke into the clear.
Just then there was a rumbling and a giant crack opened up at the 5 yard line. Into it fell most of the players from both teams. The crack widened and reached the stands and most of the SIU cheering section fell in as well. Many perished as the New Madrid fault claimed some new victims as the crack went across the entire Washington University campus.
However, in spite of the dozens of deaths, the game was not postponed. Instead Washington U had the ball, first down, just beyond the crack in the earth. They scored two plays later and won the game 24-21.
You folks should not think that the officials were insensitive to the plight of those sucked into a giant magma spewing crack. I know I'm reminded of fiery emanations from a narrow crevice every time I have jalapenos. I can only imagine what it's like to enter such a maw, though my good friend Coach Corso always said it wasn't so bad.
After the game, due to the unsafe situation at Washington U, the campus was relocated from its downtown St. Louis campus. And that is why today we speak of Washington University being one of the finest schools in Seattle. And now you know the rest of the story.