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Alabama vs. Auburn prediction and game preview. Projecting who wins the Iron Bowl matchup between the Crimson Tide and Tigers.

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Alabama vs. Auburn Game Preview

When: Saturday, November 26 – 3:30 p.m. ET
Where: Bryant-Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, AL
TV Broadcast: CBS

Alabama has already clinched the SEC West, but that is not the team’s ultimate goal, as it is national championship or bust for the Tide. All that stands in their way is rival Auburn, who comes into the game struggling with injuries to quarterback Sean White and running back Kam Pettway. The two defenses are dominant, with both being in the top eight in points allowed per game.

It is the Iron Bowl, so emotions will be high. Can Jalen Hurts continue his magical freshman season and keep the Tide rolling, or will Auburn pull the upset and ruin Alabama’s title hopes? It’s Auburn-Alabama or Alabama-Auburn depending on which side you root for. It is one of the greatest rivalries in college sports. Roll Tide! War Eagle!

What To Know About Alabama

Hurt has had one of the best freshman seasons in recent history, throwing for 2,168 yards and 19 touchdowns while rushing for 803 yards and 11 touchdowns. Along with running back Damien Harris, the Crimson Tide can run the ball at will. They also have some talented wide receivers in Calvin Ridley, ArDarius Stewart, and O.J. Howard. You know offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin will have something special dialed up for the rivalry game.

The defense is loaded again and will look to shut the Auburn rushing attack down and make Sean White (if healthy) throw the ball to beat them. It is the quintessential Alabama game plan, and it works almost every time.

What to Know About Auburn

The offense was humming along and then injuries to quarterback Sean White (he should be able to play) and running back Kam Pettway (his status is up in the air) has the Tigers stalling. Against Alabama, Auburn must run the ball to be successful or it could be a long day of three-and-outs.

Auburn’s defense has been solid this season, but it must play disciplined football against Hurts and Alabama. If Hurts beats you through the air, you will take it. You just can’t let him beat you with his legs. This falls on defensive ends Carl Lawson and Marlon Davidson to keep him in the pocket.

Advantages

Offense: Alabama. Kiffin has made all the difference for the Crimson Tide offense.

Defense: Tie. This will be a hard-hitting game in the trenches.

Special Teams: Tie. Daniel Carlson gives Auburn an edge in field goal kicking while JK Scott is a boomer for Alabama when punting.

Coaching: Alabama. Nick Saban is 6-3 in the Iron Bowl.

Intangibles: Alabama. Only the rival Tigers and a date against Florida in the SEC Championship stands between the Tide and another trip to the College Football Playoff.

Matchup To Watch

Jalen Hurts vs. Pressure of the Iron Bowl

Hurts has proven himself in big games this season, but how will he handle the anticipation and overall tension of the Iron Bowl? Not being from the state helps.

Alabama vs. Auburn Betting Odds

Spread: Alabama -17.5
Over/Under: N/A at time of publication.

Alabama vs. Auburn Prediction

A couple of weeks ago, this game looked like it would be for all the marbles: SEC West, spot in the SEC Championship game, and possibly the College Football Playoff. After Auburn’s upset by Georgia, it is now just for bragging rights for the Tigers. The Crimson Tide are focused on the task at hand, and will be ready for the Tigers’ best effort. Auburn will keep it tight for the first half, but Alabama’s overall talent and the lack of offense due to injuries for the Tigers will catch up and the Tide will roll into the SEC Championship undefeated.

Alabama vs. Auburn Score Prediction: Alabama 38, Auburn 13

MORE: 1-128 College Football Rankings – Week 13