Game Preview: As we approach the 2025 Iron Bowl, both Alabama and Auburn have shown early season dominance. Kalen DeBoer's Alabama Crimson Tide sits at 8-1 while Hugh Freeze's Auburn Tigers boast a 7-2 record. With SEC Championship and College Football Playoff implications on the line, this year's Iron Bowl could be the most consequential in recent memory.
Alabama Crimson Tide: National Title Contenders
Kalen DeBoer has Alabama playing at an elite level in his second season. The Crimson Tide's only loss came in a tight 24-21 contest against Texas in Week 4. Since then, Alabama has reeled off five consecutive victories, including impressive wins over Georgia and LSU.
Quarterback Jalen Milroe has evolved into a legitimate Heisman Trophy candidate, throwing for 2,847 yards and 26 touchdowns while adding 623 rushing yards and 8 scores. The offensive line, led by All-American Tyler Booker, has provided excellent protection, allowing Milroe to develop chemistry with a talented receiving corps featuring Isaiah Bond and Kobe Prentice.
Key Statistical Leaders
- • Jalen Milroe: 2,847 passing yards, 26 TDs
- • Justice Haynes: 1,134 rushing yards, 12 TDs
- • Isaiah Bond: 68 receptions, 1,021 yards, 11 TDs
- • Defense: 19.2 points per game allowed (4th in SEC)
Auburn Tigers: Rising Power
Hugh Freeze has Auburn trending upward in his second season. The Tigers' two losses came against top-10 opponents Georgia (31-28) and Texas A&M (34-31), both in competitive games that showed Auburn can compete with anyone in the SEC.
Quarterback Holden Geriner has become one of the SEC's most efficient passers, completing 68% of his attempts for 2,654 yards and 22 touchdowns. The emergence of freshman running back Richard Young (842 rushing yards, 9 TDs) has given Auburn a balanced attack that can strike quickly through the air or grind out yards on the ground.
Key Statistical Leaders
- • Holden Geriner: 2,654 passing yards, 22 TDs
- • Richard Young: 842 rushing yards, 9 TDs
- • Cam Coleman: 61 receptions, 892 yards, 8 TDs
- • Defense: 22.8 points per game allowed (7th in SEC)
Prediction
The Pick: Alabama 35, Auburn 31
This game promises to be an offensive showcase with both teams averaging 35+ points per game. While Auburn has improved significantly, Alabama's overall talent depth and home-field advantage at Bryant-Denny Stadium should be the difference. Expect a high-scoring affair that comes down to the final possession, with Alabama making enough plays to secure a close victory.