Today's the day. The most anticipated basketball game in the state of Alabama's history is a mere few hours from tipoff as No. 1 Auburn takes on No. 2 Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL for the SEC's first ever No. 1 vs. No. 2 clash in men's basketball.
Here's what some of our sports staff has to say about the clash between the Tigers and Tide, complete with score predictions and analysis.
Patrick Bingham, Sports Editor: Alabama 80-79
"This game is going to be absolutely box office. I think Auburn certainly has several paths to victory against Alabama — particularly if the Tigers can turn the Tide over. But with Chad Baker Mazara listed as probable and my hesitation of Auburn getting into early foul trouble, I'll go with the home team to win round one of IBOB."
Grace Heim, Assistant Sports Editor: Alabama 75-71
"I've gone back and forth on this matchup numerous times. While Auburn remains undefeated in conference play on the road, defeating Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL will be a formidable challenge. I anticipate a tightly contested game, with neither team gaining more than a three or four point advantage. Ultimately, I believe home-court advantage will give the Crimson Tide the edge."
Logan Fowler, Sports Reporter: Auburn 85-79
"All eyes will be on the action in Coleman Coliseum on Saturday as the nation's top two teams face off in a battle for SEC and national supremacy. Alabama scores as many points as any team in the country, but Auburn boast the most efficient offense, according to KenPom -- though Alabama is just one spot behind. Auburn has yet to string together a complete 40-minute basketball game in conference play, and with Johni Broome and Chad Baker-Mazara still banged up it could be difficult to do so on Saturday.
"However, Auburn's resume - 13 Quad I wins, three top-10 wins and matchups with 10 ranked opponents - and the Tigers' experience should have them prepared for what's to come from an ultra-talented Alabama squad."
Gunner Norene, Sports Writer: Alabama 84-81
"This is the most hyped up regular season game I've ever witnessed in any sport and has the potential to be remembered for a long time -- maybe even forever. The first No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup in SEC history combined with deep hatred from both sides of the state sets up nicely for an Iron Bowl of Basketball epic classic. And not the mention, the winner takes first place in the regular season SEC title race.
"But ultimately, it will come down to what happens in between the lines on Saturday. Auburn must keep the Tide off the boards, as Alabama ranks first in the SEC in rebounding. Auburn also needs to win the turnover battle and play the game at their own pace, keeping Alabama from getting out in transition and setting up open looks from beyond the arc.
"I expect this to be a back-and-forth nail-biter that could potentially go to overtime, but my gut tells me Alabama will hit a big shot late in the game to propel them over the Tigers."
Charlie Diegnan, Sports Writer: Auburn 81-76
"This is likely biggest game for both these teams, not only in their rivalry, but in the history of their programs. With Alabama's scoring ability matched up against Auburn's nation-leading 6.8 blocks per game, this is a blockbuster showdown.
"I expect the shooting abilities and turnovers of both teams to the deciding factor in this matchup. While Alabama leads the nation in points-per-game, they also lead the nation in turnovers. Auburn is going to need big games behind the arc from Miles Kelly and Denver Jones paired with a stout defensive clinic from Johni Broome and Dylan Cardwell in the post as the Tigers enter the hostile territory that Coleman Coliseum will be.
"Auburn has indisputably the most impressive resume of any team in country and I expect them to prove yet again why they are the No. 1 team in the country."
Ben Campbell, Sports Writer: Auburn 89-80
"Potential Game of the year will be played this Saturday in Coleman Coliseum as the AP number 1 and 2 teams face off for a chance at claiming 1st place in SEC conference play. Alabama has a stellar offense. Averaging 90.5 PPG with four 100 point performances in SEC play, the Crimson Tide looks ready to put on an offensive clinic on Saturday. However, Auburn ranks 1st in offensive efficiency, according to KenPom. With Alabama's Derrion Reid facing lingering injury issues that could prevent him from playing Saturday, Alabama's defensive rotation may not have what it takes to contain Auburn's wings and front court.
"With 13 Quad I wins, three top-10 wins, and the Tigers' experience, Auburn is battle tested and should be prepared to put up a great offensive performance on Alabama's talented squad."
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