Auburn (5-6) is set to take on No. 13 Alabama (8-3) in the highly anticipated Iron Bowl on Saturday, Nov. 30. This rivalry between the Auburn Tigers and the Alabama Crimson Tide has spanned 131 years, making it one of the most notable matchups in college football history.
Historically, Alabama holds a 50-37 advantage in the series, with a tie in 1907 marking the start of a 40-year drought before the rivalry was picked back up in 1948. One of the most memorable moments came in December 1949, when Alabama fans famously waved $50 and $100 bills at Auburn players, symbolizing a bet that Auburn wouldn’t be able to compete with the Crimson Tide on the field.
1970: Auburn 33-28
Pat Sullivan ignited another dramatic turnaround, leading the Tigers from a 17-point hole to a 33-28 win at Legion Field.
1972: Auburn 17-16 - "Punt Bama Punt"
Two critical blocked punts by Bill Newton in the closing minutes sealed Auburn's victory over Alabama. David Langner returned both blocks for touchdowns, scoring 12 points and giving Auburn a 17-16 win. Langner’s interception on Alabama's final drive ended the game, ensuring the Tigers' hard-fought victory.
1982: Auburn 23-22 - “Bo over the Top”
Bo Jackson soared over the pile for a game-winning touchdown, securing a dramatic 23-22 victory in 1982. The win ended a heartbreaking nine-year losing streak igniting fans who tore down goalposts and stormed the field in celebration.
1989: Auburn 30-20 - "First time ever"
On December 2, Auburn knocked off undefeated Alabama with a 30-20 victory, securing its third consecutive SEC Championship and solidifying Pat Dye's legacy at Auburn. This game marked the Auburn Tigers' first home matchup ever, ending a long stretch of games played in Birmingham.
1993: Auburn 22-14 - “Nix to Sanders”
True sophomore Patrick Nix was summoned late in the game after five-year senior Stan White was sidelined with a knee injury. Nix connected with Sanders on a deep throw near the end zone, with Sanders making a diving touchdown that shifted the momentum. Auburn went on to defeat Alabama 22-14, recording an undefeated 11-0 season.
2010: Auburn 28-27 - “The Cam-back”
No. 2 Auburn defeated No. 11 Alabama 28–27 in Tuscaloosa after erasing a 24–0 deficit — the largest comeback win in series history — led by Auburn's Heisman trophy winning quarterback Cam Newton.
2013: Auburn 34-28 - “Kick Six”
November 30, 2013 featured one of the most notable plays in college football history. No. 4 Auburn stunned No. 1 Alabama after Chris Davis returned a missed field goal more than 100 yards with one second left on the clock, securing a 34-28 victory for the Tigers.
2023: Alabama 27-24 - "Fourth and 31"
Alabama fell behind early in the game, committing 72 yards in penalties, missing a crucial field goal in the third quarter, and allowing Auburn to record 244 rushing yards. On a do-or-die fourth-and-31, Jalen Milroe unleashed a deep throw to Isaiah Bond, who made a catch in the back right corner of the end zone for a touchdown, closing out the game with a 27-24 win for Alabama.
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Caroline is a sophomore majoring in journalism. She started with The Plainsman in the fall 2024.
