The 2016 Alamo Bowl Miracle
The night of January 2, 2016, began in disaster for TCU. Down 31-0 at halftime against Oregon after punting five times and an interception, walk-on QB Bram Kohlhausen entered his only college start amid chaos—star QB Trevone Boykin was suspended following a bar incident.
With coach Gary Patterson switching from a black to purple shirt as a rallying cry, Kohlhausen orchestrated the comeback. He connected for a 26-yard TD to Jaelan Austin, built momentum with a field goal drive, and sealed the win with a game-winning TD run in triple overtime, totaling 396 yards and four TDs.
This feat, the largest deficit overcome in NCAA bowl history, turned Kohlhausen into TCU's living legend. Fans recount their 'where were you' stories, and Disney even eyed a movie deal.
Surviving the Helicopter Fall
In 2023, Kohlhausen faced his second miracle: a 75-foot fall from a helicopter during a hunting trip, resulting in the amputation of both lower legs. Released from the hospital, he wheeled to the gym the same day, walking with crutches by Labor Day.
Wearing a 'Respond' wristband, Kohlhausen credits his Alamo Bowl grit for his recovery. At 33, he frequents Fort Worth, where fans buy his meals and snap photos, affirming his status as an inspiration.
His resilience mirrors the comeback: from despair to triumph, proving he's built for impossible odds.
Honorary Captain in 2025 Alamo Bowl
As TCU faces the Alamo Bowl on December 31, 2025, Kohlhausen returns as honorary captain, donning custom Air Jordan 1 Low golf shoes in TCU purple. This marks the 10-year-ish anniversary of his heroics, connecting past and present for Frog fans.
Recent sightings at TCU basketball games and restaurants show his legend grows. The custom sneakers, blending Jordan style with TCU pride, highlight his cultural impact in sneaker and football circles.
Kohlhausen's story transcends sports— a tale of underdog victory, personal tragedy, and unyielding spirit, resonating globally on this landmark date.