The 2011 Iron Bowl was a statement game for an Alabama team seeking vengeance and a shot at the national title. After blowing a 24-0 lead the previous year in the “Camback,” Alabama returned to Jordan-Hare Stadium and left no doubt, crushing Auburn 42-14.
The Trent Richardson Freak Show
Running back Trent Richardson put on a clinic, rushing for a career-high 203 yards on 27 carries. He was a bowling ball of knives, breaking tackles and dragging defenders at will. His performance controlled the clock and demoralized the Auburn defense. Quarterback AJ McCarron was surgical, throwing three touchdown passes to balance the attack.
Defense Wins Championships
Auburn’s offense, devoid of Cam Newton, had no answers. They managed just 140 total yards against one of the greatest defenses in college football history. The Tigers scored on a fumble return and a kickoff return, but their offense failed to produce a single point. The victory kept Alabama at #2, setting the stage for their rematch with LSU in the BCS National Championship Game, where they would claim their 14th title.