The 2008 Iron Bowl was a exorcism for Alabama fans. After losing six consecutive games to their arch-rival—a streak famously dubbed “Fear the Thumb”—top-ranked Alabama arrived in Tuscaloosa determined to restore order. They did so with a level of dominance that signaled a permanent shift in the rivalry’s power dynamics.
Complete Suffocation
Nick Saban’s first Iron Bowl victory was a masterclass in defense. Alabama shut out Auburn 36-0, the first shutout in the series in 35 years. Auburn mustered only 170 total yards and never threatened the end zone. The disparity was stark; Alabama looked like a national title contender, while Auburn looked like a program in freefall.
Coffee and Ingram
On offense, Alabama bludgeoned Auburn on the ground. Glen Coffee rushed for 144 yards and a touchdown, while freshman sensation Mark Ingram added 64 yards and two scores. The game was essentially over by halftime, but Saban’s squad kept the pressure on, turning the fourth quarter into a celebration for the Bryant-Denny crowd. The loss ultimately led to the resignation of Auburn coach Tommy Tuberville, ending his decade-long tenure on the Plains.