The 2004 Iron Bowl was the coronation of one of the greatest teams in Auburn history. Hosting Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium, the unbeaten Tigers faced a determined rival looking to play spoiler. In a gritty second half, Auburn pulled away for a 21-13 victory, securing a perfect 12-0 regular season and the SEC West championship.
Defensive Struggle
For a half, Alabama looked poised to ruin the dream. Leading 6-0 at halftime, the Alabama defense stifled Auburn’s powerful backfield. However, champions adjust. In the second half, Auburn’s offense woke up. Quarterback Jason Campbell connected on key throws, while running backs Carnell “Cadillac” Williams and Ronnie Brown began to wear down the Tide front.
The Second Half Surge
Auburn scored 21 unanswered points to take control. Campbell threw a touchdown pass, and both Williams and Brown found the end zone. Alabama fought back with a late touchdown pass from Spencer Pennington, but it wasn’t enough. The victory completed Auburn’s perfect regular season (they would go on to win the Sugar Bowl and finish 13-0), leaving them as the controversial unbeaten team left out of the BCS National Championship game.