The much-anticipated Iron Bowl is set to unfold this Saturday as the No. 13 Alabama Crimson Tide (8-3, 4-3) take on their long-time rivals, the Auburn Tigers (5-6, 2-5). This clash holds significant implications, with Alabama aiming to sustain its chances for a College Football Playoff berth and Auburn striving for bowl eligibility. In their last game, Alabama faced a setback against Oklahoma, losing 24-3. Meanwhile, Auburn is riding high after an exciting quadruple overtime victory over Texas A&M, securing a 43-41 win.
Historically, Alabama has dominated this rivalry, winning four consecutive Iron Bowl games and holding a 50-37-1 advantage in the all-time series. Both teams have performed evenly against the spread this season, with a 6-5 record. Notably, Auburn tight end Rivaldo Fairweather has been cleared to play, adding another weapon to their offensive arsenal.
Kickoff is slated for 3:30 p.m. ET at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. According to the latest odds, the Crimson Tide is favored by 10.5 points, while the over/under line is set at 52.5 points.
Alabama’s quarterback, Jalen Milroe, is a crucial factor for the Tide. Standing at 6-foot-2, he is recognized not just as a dynamic dual-threat quarterback but also as a past Heisman Trophy candidate. Milroe has amassed 2,396 passing yards with 15 touchdown passes alongside nine interceptions, and his impressive rushing stats include 615 yards and 17 touchdowns.
On the Auburn side, their motivation to secure a bowl game adds urgency to this matchup. The Tigers boast one of the strongest rushing attacks in the SEC, led by running back Jarquez Hunter, who has accumulated 1,145 rushing yards and eight touchdowns this season. Auburn is 3-1 against the spread in its last four matches, building momentum heading into the game.
Expert Jimmie Kaylor has analyzed the matchup extensively, leaning toward the under on the point total. He also identifies a key X-factor that may influence the outcome, only available to those visiting SportsLine.
As the Iron Bowl approaches, this thrilling rivalry game promises both unpredictable excitement and reflects the passion that college football evokes. With fierce competition and the stakes high for both teams, fans can look forward to an unforgettable showdown.