The 2022 Iron Bowl was a farewell tour for one of the greatest quarterbacks in Alabama history. In his final game at Bryant-Denny Stadium, Bryce Young turned the rivalry game into a personal highlight reel, leading #8 Alabama to a decisive 49-27 victory over Auburn.
A Duel of Styles
Auburn entered the game rejuvenated under interim head coach Carnell “Cadillac” Williams. Playing with nothing to lose, the Tigers brought a gritty, run-heavy attack that gouged Alabama for 318 rushing yards. Robby Ashford and Jarquez Hunter kept Auburn competitive, and the Tigers trailed only 35-14 at halftime—a score that felt closer than it looked due to Auburn’s ability to move the ball on the ground.
Aerial Supremacy
However, Alabama had Bryce Young, and Auburn did not. Young was magnificent, completing 20 of 30 passes for 343 yards and three touchdowns. He also showcased his elusive scrambling ability, adding 48 rushing yards and a touchdown. His three touchdown passes went to Jase McClellan from 10 yards, Ja’Corey Brooks for a 32-yard strike, and Traeshon Holden from 27, and he operated with surgical precision throughout.
The Separation
While Auburn’s run game was effective, their passing game was limited to 77 yards. This one-dimensional approach proved fatal in the second half. Alabama’s defense tightened, forcing critical stops and capitalizing on turnovers. Meanwhile, the Tide offense kept scoring, with Roydell Williams and Jahmyr Gibbs adding balance on the ground. The 49-27 final score was a fitting send-off for Young: Alabama had won three straight Iron Bowls, and Young had won both of his starts in the series. The Tide finished the regular season 10-2.