Ronnie Brown

The 2002 Iron Bowl produced one of the most unlikely heroes in the rivalry's history. With starters Carnell Williams and Ronnie Brown banged up, Auburn turned to backup running back Tre Smith. The freshman responded with the game of his life, leading unranked Auburn to a stunning 17-7 upset over #9 Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Auburn dominated the first half, jumping out to a 17-0 lead. Smith was the workhorse, carrying the ball 25 times for 126 yards. His ability to grind out tough yards kept the powerful Alabama offense off the field. On defense, Auburn was spectacular, holding Alabama to just 50 rushing yards and forcing turnovers that crippled the Tide's comeback attempts. Alabama finally scored in the fourth quarter, but it was too little, too late.

The 2004 Iron Bowl was the coronation of one of the greatest teams in Auburn history. Hosting Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium, the unbeaten Tigers faced a determined rival looking to play spoiler. In a gritty second half, Auburn pulled away for a 21-13 victory, securing a perfect 12-0 regular season and the SEC West championship. For a half, Alabama looked poised to ruin the dream, leading 6-0 at halftime behind a stifling defense. However, in the second half, Auburn's offense woke up. Quarterback Jason Campbell connected on key throws, while running backs Carnell "Cadillac" Williams and Ronnie Brown began to wear down the Tide front. Auburn scored 21 unanswered points to take control. The victory completed Auburn's perfect regular season, leaving them as the controversial unbeaten team left out of the BCS National Championship game.