The 2014 Iron Bowl was an offensive explosion that defied the rivalry’s defensive reputation. In the highest-scoring game in series history, AP #2 Alabama outlasted #15 Auburn 55-44 in a contest that featured nearly 1,200 yards of total offense and wild momentum swings.
The Auburn Onslaught
For most of the game, Auburn looked like the better team. Nick Marshall threw for a staggering 456 yards, bombing deep passes to Sammie Coates (206 yards) and D’haquille Williams. Auburn’s offense moved at a breakneck pace, confusing the Alabama defense and building a 33-21 lead in the third quarter. It seemed like Gus Malzahn had Nick Saban’s number again.
The Blake Sims Redemption
But getting the ball back, Alabama quarterback Blake Sims—who had thrown three interceptions earlier—shook off the mistakes. He led a furious comeback, connecting with Amari Cooper (224 yards, 3 TDs) repeatedly. Sims threw for 312 yards and four touchdowns, while the Alabama running game found its rhythm. The Tide scored 21 points in the fourth quarter to seize control. Alabama had already clinched its SEC West berth before kickoff because Mississippi State lost to Ole Miss earlier that day; the Iron Bowl win kept the Tide on course for the inaugural College Football Playoff.