The 2015 Iron Bowl was less about schematic brilliance and more about the unstoppable force of one man: Derrick Henry. In a 29-13 victory, the Alabama running back put the team on his back, carrying the ball a staggering 46 times for 271 yards and a touchdown, cementing his Heisman Trophy campaign.
A Defensive Struggle Early
The game was tight for three quarters. Auburn’s defense, coordinated by Will Muschamp, frustrated Alabama early, and the Tigers managed to stay within striking distance thanks to a gritty effort. Jason Smith’s miraculous tipped-catch touchdown kept Auburn alive, but the offense couldn’t sustain momentum against Alabama’s elite front seven.
The Takeover
In the fourth quarter, Alabama offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin kept it simple: hand the ball to Henry. On the final drive alone, Henry carried the ball 14 consecutive times, draining the clock and the will of the Auburn defense. It was a physical dominance rarely seen in modern football. While Jake Coker made key throws and Adam Griffith hit massive field goals (5-for-5), the 2015 Iron Bowl will always be remembered as the game where Derrick Henry ran his way into history.