Former Alabama Player Known for “Bench Tackle” Dies at 83

Alabama lost one of its true legends on Sunday. According to Laughlin Funeral Home, former Crimson Tide fullback Tommy Lewis died in Huntsville retirement home at the age of 83.

Lewis is best known for coming off of the bench during the 1954 Cotton Bowl to tackle Rice running back Dicky Maegle. Maegle was on his was way to what was sure to be a 95-yard touchdown run when Lewis stepped off of the Alabama sideline to make the tackle. Although there was confusion on how to handle the situation, referees gave Rice the touchdown. It is the longest play in Cotton Bowl history even though Maegle never made it to the end zone. The Owls won the game 28-6.

Tommy Lewis and Dicky Maelge both appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show a few days after the game to discuss the play that was being talked about around the country. Lewis later apologized for his actions by saying that he "was just too full of Bama."

Lewis is also remembered for being the captain of the Crimson Tide's 1953 SEC championship and also for being apart of Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant's first coaching staff.

Lewis, a Huntsville native, is survived by his wife Helen and their three children. A visitation followed by a funeral service is schedule for Wednesday. For more information, click here.

Watch the famous "bench play" video here: