The 2019 Iron Bowl at Jordan-Hare Stadium arguably surpassed even the “Kick Six” for pure, unadulterated chaos. In a game that featured 93 combined points, lead changes, defensive touchdowns, and bizarre officiating quirks, #15 Auburn upset #5 Alabama 48-45, ending the Crimson Tide’s College Football Playoff hopes.
The Waddle vs. Auburn Show
Alabama, playing with backup quarterback Mac Jones after Tua Tagovailoa’s injury, put up a valiant fight. Jones threw for 335 yards and four touchdowns, but he also threw two critical “Pick Sixes”—one to Zakoby McClain for 100 yards and another to Smoke Monday. Despite the errors, Alabama’s Jaylen Waddle was electric, scoring four touchdowns (three receiving, one kickoff return) and accounting for 230 all-purpose yards.
The Bizarre Ending
The game was decided by the slimmest of margins and the strangest of plays. With Alabama trailing 48-45 in the final minutes, they faced a 4th-and-goal. Coach Nick Saban opted for a game-tying field goal. Joseph Bulovas’ 30-yard attempt hit the upright—“DOINK”—and bounced out. Auburn took over, but the drama wasn’t done. On 4th down, Gus Malzahn tricked Alabama with a substitution, causing Alabama to have 12 men on the field. The penalty gave Auburn a first down, allowing them to kneel out the clock in one of the most insane Iron Bowls ever played.