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Stabler later accepted a scholarship to play for the University of Alabama, where he would become a significant figure under legendary coach Paul Bear Bryant. Despite initially lingering on the bench behind All-American quarterbacks, it wasn’t long before Stabler emerged as the starter, famously leading the team during tumultuous seasons.
His college tenure yielded impressive statistics—over 2,196 passing yards and nine rushing touchdowns—despite facing challenges that included disciplinary actions and personal distractions. One of Stabler's most memorable moments was during the Iron Bowl against Auburn, where he executed a dramatic 47-yard touchdown run, known as the Run in the Mud.