Rivalry weekend in college football is one of the most anticipated periods of the season, and when Auburn and Alabama meet on the gridiron, it’s more than just a game—it’s a battle for pride, tradition, and supremacy in the state of Alabama. In this year’s edition, the No. 14 Auburn Tigers will face off against the No. 8 Alabama Crimson Tide in one of the most storied rivalries in college football history. With both teams entering the game with high stakes and playoff aspirations, this showdown promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
Alabama and Auburn have been battling on the football field for over a century, and each encounter adds another thrilling chapter to their historic rivalry. This year, both teams bring their own unique narratives, players, and strengths to the table, making it a highly anticipated contest that will have significant implications for the College Football Playoff race, conference standings, and recruiting battles.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of the rivalry, the current state of both teams, the key players to watch, and what makes this particular matchup so special. Whether you’re an Auburn fan, an Alabama supporter, or a neutral observer, there’s no denying that Rivalry Weekend featuring the Tigers and Crimson Tide is a must-watch event that showcases everything that’s great about college football.
The Rivalry: A Storied History
The rivalry between Auburn and Alabama is one of the most intense and passionate in all of college sports. Known as the Iron Bowl, this annual clash began in 1893 and has been a defining feature of both schools’ athletic calendars ever since. The game is played with fierce determination, with both teams giving everything they have to secure bragging rights over their archrival.
Over the years, the Iron Bowl has produced legendary moments, from last-minute touchdowns to iconic individual performances. Some of the most famous moments include the “Kick Six” in 2013, when Auburn’s Chris Davis returned a missed field goal 109 yards for a game-winning touchdown, and Alabama’s 2011 victory in which they shut out Auburn 42-0. These unforgettable moments add to the lore of the Iron Bowl, and every year, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the rivalry.
While Alabama has historically dominated the series, Auburn has managed to pull off some significant upsets over the years, reminding everyone that the Tigers are always capable of challenging the Crimson Tide, no matter the odds. As of 2024, Alabama leads the all-time series with 48 wins to Auburn’s 37, with one tie.
But rivalry games are never predictable, and as both teams enter this year’s contest, the stakes are high. With both teams sitting near the top of the rankings and with postseason implications hanging in the balance, there is more than just state pride at stake. This year’s Iron Bowl could very well determine which team has the upper hand when it comes to securing a spot in the SEC Championship Game and ultimately the College Football Playoff.
Alabama: The Crimson Tide’s Quest for Another National Title
Under the guidance of head coach Nick Saban, Alabama football has reigned supreme for much of the past two decades, establishing itself as a perennial powerhouse in college football. The Crimson Tide have won multiple national championships, including their most recent title in 2020, and are regularly among the top contenders for the College Football Playoff. With a roster stacked with talent on both sides of the ball, Alabama has its sights set on securing another national title in 2024.
The Crimson Tide enter this rivalry matchup at No. 8 in the rankings, with only one loss on their record. Their offense is powered by a dynamic quarterback and a stable of talented skill players, while their defense remains one of the toughest in the nation. Alabama’s defensive line, linebackers, and secondary are all elite units capable of stifling even the most potent offenses.
Alabama’s offense revolves around Jalen Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback who has shown flashes of brilliance this season. Milroe’s ability to both throw the ball downfield and make plays with his legs has kept opposing defenses on their toes. He has a talented receiving corps, including players like Jermaine Burton and Isaiah Bond, who can stretch the field and make explosive plays. In the backfield, Jase McClellan and Roydell Williams provide a strong running game that complements Milroe’s playmaking ability.
The Alabama defense is anchored by the likes of Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell on the edge, while the secondary, led by Malachi Moore and Kool-Aid McKinstry, provides an airtight coverage unit. Saban’s defensive schemes have been a hallmark of Alabama football for years, and his team’s ability to shut down the opposition’s offense is one of the reasons they remain so dangerous year in and year out.
While Alabama has been solid all season, their matchup with Auburn is expected to be one of their toughest challenges. In a rivalry game like this, anything can happen, and Alabama knows that their archrival will be bringing their A-game. For the Crimson Tide, this game represents another opportunity to assert dominance in the state of Alabama and keep their championship aspirations alive.
Auburn: The Tigers Look to Upset Their Rivals
Auburn has been on a journey of rebuilding and retooling over the past few seasons, but 2024 has brought renewed optimism. Head coach Hugh Freeze, now in his second season, has injected new energy into the program, bringing his offensive mind and ability to develop quarterbacks to the Plains. The Tigers have shown flashes of brilliance this season, and their performance against Alabama will be a true test of their growth and potential.
Auburn enters the Iron Bowl ranked No. 14 in the nation, with only two losses on their record. The Tigers have relied on their strong defense and improved offensive play to stay competitive in the SEC. Their defense is led by standout linebacker Aubrey Miller Jr., who has been a tackling machine all season, and a secondary that has made key plays at crucial moments.
Offensively, Auburn is guided by Robbie Ashford, a quarterback with dual-threat capabilities who can hurt teams both with his arm and his legs. Ashford’s ability to extend plays and keep defenses off balance is a key part of Auburn’s offensive attack. The Tigers have also found success in their ground game, with Jarquez Hunter and Damari Alston leading the way in the backfield. The combination of Ashford’s arm and legs, along with a strong running game, gives Auburn the ability to control the clock and wear down opposing defenses.
Auburn’s receiving corps, while not as deep as Alabama’s, has some dangerous weapons. Koy Moore and Jay Fair are capable of making big plays downfield, and their ability to win one-on-one matchups will be crucial in the rivalry game.
The Tigers will enter the Iron Bowl as the underdogs, but that’s exactly how they prefer it. With their backs against the wall, Auburn will be looking to pull off an upset and deliver a blow to their rival’s College Football Playoff hopes. For Auburn fans, a victory over Alabama would be the ultimate redemption, a moment that would make the entire season feel like a success.
Key Players to Watch
As always in rivalry games, individual performances will be crucial. Here are some key players to watch:
- Jalen Milroe (Alabama): Milroe’s ability to control the game through both the air and on the ground will be pivotal for Alabama’s success. If he plays a clean game and makes plays in the passing and running game, Alabama will have a good chance of winning.
- Robbie Ashford (Auburn): Ashford’s mobility and playmaking ability could be the X-factor in this game. If Auburn can get him in space and allow him to make plays, the Tigers could keep the game close and even pull off an upset.
- Dallas Turner (Alabama): Turner is one of the best pass rushers in college football and will be tasked with putting pressure on Ashford. His ability to disrupt the Auburn offense will be critical to Alabama’s defensive success.
- Aubrey Miller Jr. (Auburn): Miller is the heart of Auburn’s defense and will need to lead the charge in stopping Alabama’s explosive offense. If he can make plays in the middle of the field and disrupt Alabama’s rhythm, the Tigers will have a shot at slowing down their rival.
The Stakes: What’s on the Line?
This year’s Iron Bowl is more than just a rivalry game—it’s a crucial contest for both teams’ postseason hopes. For Alabama, a win would keep their College Football Playoff hopes alive, potentially securing a spot in the SEC Championship Game and a chance to contend for another national title. For Auburn, a victory would not only provide immense pride and satisfaction but could also put a major dent in Alabama’s championship aspirations and cement the Tigers as a force to be reckoned with in the SEC.