You’ll Want to Read This

Picture This,

It’s the end of the 2004 season. The GOAT has just played his final game in an Alabama football uniform—a heartbreaking Music City Bowl loss to Minnesota, 20-16. He gave it everything he had: 22 completions on 36 attempts, racking up 243 yards. His final season? A gritty average of 108 yards per game, a 54% completion rate, and the ups and downs of eight interceptions to four touchdowns. His career stats were that of a legend: 96 completions on 184 attempts, 1,134 yards, nine interceptions, and five touchdowns. But the story wasn’t over.

As he walks off the field for the last time, the echoes of the crowd fade into the background, replaced by the eerie opening chords of Marilyn Manson’s Sweet Dreams. The tunnel grows darker, the cheers quieter, and the weight of the moment heavier. The sound of rubber cleats on concrete gives way to something new—a sharper, more distinct rhythm. The unmistakable click of baseball spikes fills the air.

Suddenly, the old rugged No. 13 transforms into a 24. He looks up, eyeblack streaked across his face, a wad of tobacco tucked in his cheek. Spencer Pennington spits, grins, and mutters with a swagger only legends can muster:

“It’s dinger time, baby. Roll Tide.”

As the music fades, the unmistakable strains of Yea Alabama rise. It’s not the end. It’s the beginning of another chapter for the GOAT—a story of perseverance, grit, and the heart of a true competitor.