The 1962 edition of the Nebraska Cornhuskers were showing a lot more talent than many had expected. Under first year head coach Bob Devaney the Huskers rebounded from a 3-6-1 record the previous year to open the 1962 campaign with six straight wins.Shortly after the season Husker Athletic Director Tippy Dye got a call; would the Huskers be interested in facing the Miami Hurricanes in the Gotham Bowl? Nebraska's opponent for the December 15th contest was a powerful University of Miami squad led by George Mira, one of the greatest passers in college football. Ben Rizzo was a speedy receiver and one of Mira's favorite targets. Nick Spinelli helped balance the powerful Miami offense with a strong rushing game. The Hurricanes were considered heavy favorites in the game.
The entire game was a nailbiter, with the lead changing hands several times. With one minute left on the clock Miami QB, George Mira, fired a pass, but was intercepted by Husker Bob Brown and the threat was over. Claridge burned off the rest of the game clock with three dive plays and a punt that rolled dead as time expired.
The Huskers had their first post season win in three tries 36-34 in the Gotham Bowl.
