Iron Bowl Icons
The legendary coaches and players who made the Iron Bowl the greatest rivalry in college football
Alabama Legends
7 iconic figures
Auburn Legends
8 iconic figures
Legendary Coaches
Bear Bryant
Paul "Bear" Bryant is the most iconic figure in Alabama football history. He coached the Crimson Tide for 25 years, winning 6 national championships and becoming a legend of college football.
Nick Saban
Nick Saban transformed Alabama into a dynasty, winning 6 national championships and becoming the greatest coach of the modern era. His systematic approach and relentless pursuit of excellence made Alabama the gold standard of college football.
Pat Dye
Pat Dye built Auburn into a powerhouse in the 1980s, going 4-0 against Bear Bryant and establishing Auburn's dominance in the rivalry during that decade.
DJ Durkin
DJ Durkin was named Auburn's interim head coach on November 2, 2025, after Hugh Freeze was fired. As Auburn's defensive coordinator since 2024, Durkin built one of the SEC's best defenses, ranking 9th nationally in rush defense (83.6 yards/game) and 18th in scoring defense (17.7 points/game) in 2025. He previously served as Maryland's head coach (2016-2017) and Texas A&M's defensive coordinator (2022-2023).
Hugh Freeze
Hugh Freeze was hired as Auburn's head coach in 2023 but was fired on November 2, 2025, after a 4-5 start to the season. His three-year tenure ended with a 15-19 overall record and a 6-16 mark in SEC play. Despite strong recruiting efforts, Freeze struggled to produce wins in the competitive SEC West, leading to his dismissal following a disappointing loss to Kentucky.
Alabama Players
Derrick Henry
Derrick Henry dominated Auburn in his Heisman Trophy season, rushing for 271 yards on 46 carries in the 2015 Iron Bowl. His punishing running style and record-breaking performance cemented his legacy.
AJ McCarron
AJ McCarron led Alabama to two national championships and never lost to Auburn until the infamous "Kick Six" game in 2013. His leadership and clutch performances defined Alabama's dynasty era.
Tua Tagovailoa
Tua Tagovailoa became a legend when he threw the game-winning touchdown in the 2018 National Championship. He dominated Auburn in 2018, throwing 5 touchdowns in a 52-21 rout.
Bryce Young
Bryce Young won the Heisman Trophy in 2021 and never lost to Auburn in the regular season. His pinpoint accuracy and composure under pressure made him one of Alabama's greatest quarterbacks.
Jalen Milroe
Jalen Milroe became the starting quarterback in 2023 and led Alabama to victory in Kalen DeBoer's first Iron Bowl in 2024. His dual-threat capability and three rushing touchdowns in the 2024 Iron Bowl cemented his place in Alabama football history.
Auburn Players
Cam Newton
Cam Newton had one of the greatest seasons in college football history in 2010, leading Auburn to a national championship. He defeated #2 Alabama 28-27 in the Iron Bowl, sealing Auburn's perfect season.
Chris Davis Jr.
Chris Davis returned a missed field goal 109 yards for a touchdown as time expired in the 2013 Iron Bowl, creating the most iconic play in rivalry history. The "Kick Six" is replayed endlessly and remains the defining moment of the Iron Bowl.
Bo Jackson
Bo Jackson is one of the greatest athletes of all time. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1985 and dominated Alabama with his rare combination of speed and power.
Nick Marshall
Nick Marshall led Auburn to the 2013 SEC Championship and the famous "Kick Six" victory over Alabama. His dual-threat ability made Auburn's offense unstoppable.
Kerryon Johnson
Kerryon Johnson dominated Alabama in the 2017 Iron Bowl upset, rushing for 104 yards and helping Auburn stun the top-ranked Crimson Tide 26-14.
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