In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, few programs have managed to carve out a legacy as memorable and impactful as Auburn University. Over the past two decades, Auburn football has not only been a consistent force on the field but has also played a central role in some of the most thrilling, dramatic, and defining games of the 21st century. From nail-biting finishes and stunning upsets to record-setting performances and championship showdowns, Auburn’s imprint on the top 25 games of the century is undeniable.
When discussing the greatest college football games of the century, Auburn’s name surfaces repeatedly. This is no coincidence. The Tigers have been a part of contests that have transcended ordinary matchups to become moments etched in the collective memory of football fans nationwide. Auburn’s ability to deliver drama and excitement, often against the toughest opponents on the biggest stages, has helped elevate the sport’s profile while solidifying the program’s place in college football history.
One cannot begin to talk about Auburn’s legendary games without acknowledging the 2013 BCS National Championship Game against Florida State. This game is often hailed as one of the greatest college football games ever played. Auburn entered the title game as underdogs but showcased incredible resilience and skill, pushing the Seminoles to the brink in a heart-stopping overtime thriller. Though Auburn ultimately fell short, losing 34-31 in overtime, the game embodied the spirit of competition and drama that defines the century’s top games. Quarterback Nick Marshall and wide receiver Sammie Coates led the charge, and the Tigers’ grit in the face of adversity left an indelible mark on college football lore.
Another defining moment came in the 2013 Iron Bowl, where Auburn delivered one of the most remarkable finishes in football history. Known simply as the “Kick Six,” this game featured Auburn trailing Alabama as time was running out. With just one second left on the clock, Alabama lined up for a seemingly game-winning 57-yard field goal. Instead, Auburn’s Chris Davis caught the missed kick in the end zone and returned it 109 yards for a touchdown, clinching a stunning 34-28 victory. This electrifying play not only secured a win over their fierce rival but also is regularly cited as one of the greatest plays in college football history. It perfectly encapsulated Auburn’s penchant for producing unforgettable moments on the gridiron.
Auburn’s impact on top-tier games extends beyond their home state rivalries. The Tigers have also left their mark in bowl games that have defined seasons for both themselves and their opponents. The 2011 BCS National Championship Game against Oregon was a showcase of Auburn’s dominance, led by the incomparable Cam Newton. Newton’s Heisman Trophy-winning season culminated in a decisive 22-19 victory that not only secured Auburn’s first national title since 1957 but also reaffirmed their place at the pinnacle of college football. The game was a testament to Auburn’s capacity to rise on the biggest stages and deliver championship-winning performances.
Equally memorable was Auburn’s 2017 victory over Georgia in the SEC Championship Game, a matchup that featured two of the nation’s elite programs battling for supremacy in the conference. Auburn’s defense held firm against Georgia’s high-powered offense, and the Tigers prevailed 28-7, clinching a berth in the College Football Playoff. This victory was a critical moment in Auburn’s modern football history and further demonstrated their ability to perform when the stakes are highest.
Auburn’s role in top games also includes remarkable comeback victories that showcase the team’s resilience and determination. In 2006, Auburn pulled off an astonishing comeback against LSU, overcoming a 24-point deficit to win 28-27 in one of the most thrilling finishes in SEC history. Such games reinforce Auburn’s reputation as a team that never quits, capable of overturning the odds even in the most hostile environments.
The Tigers’ consistency in competing against top-ranked opponents has further contributed to their legacy. Over the past two decades, Auburn has faced multiple top-10 teams, often emerging victorious in contests that have shaped conference and national standings. Their frequent matchups against perennial powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, LSU, and Florida have often carried major implications for championship races and playoff selections. Auburn’s ability to rise to these challenges repeatedly has made their games must-watch events for fans and analysts alike.
While individual star players have certainly driven Auburn’s success, the collective team effort and coaching prowess have played equally vital roles in these historic games. Coaches like Tommy Tuberville, Gene Chizik, and Gus Malzahn have each contributed to Auburn’s winning formula, guiding the Tigers through seasons filled with iconic moments. Malzahn’s innovative offensive schemes and ability to motivate players have been instrumental in producing some of Auburn’s most memorable victories, including the “Kick Six” and numerous other top-tier games.
Auburn’s impact extends beyond the field as well. The passion and loyalty of the Auburn fanbase, often referred to as the “Auburn Family,” have created an atmosphere that energizes the team and intimidates opponents. Jordan-Hare Stadium, known for its electric environment, has been the backdrop for many of these top games, turning home matchups into unforgettable experiences. The roaring crowd, the sea of orange and blue, and the traditions that permeate Auburn football add to the significance of each contest.
The cultural and historical significance of Auburn’s top games is also reflected in the broader narrative of college football. These games have been milestones that have helped define eras, influenced recruiting, shaped coaching careers, and contributed to the evolving strategies and styles of play within the sport. Auburn’s place in this narrative is secure because of the drama, skill, and heart exhibited in their performances, which have consistently captivated audiences and inspired players.
Looking to the future, Auburn football’s commitment to excellence and competitiveness suggests that the Tigers will continue to feature prominently in the next generation of great college football games. With strong recruiting classes, innovative coaching, and a rich tradition to uphold, Auburn is poised to create more unforgettable moments that will add to their legacy and further enrich the history of college football.
