College Game Preview: #2 Alabama vs. Auburn
By Brady Lunt
Alabama and Auburn have met in the Iron Bowl a total of 79 times, with the first meeting occurring in 1893. Alabama currently leads the series 43-35-1, winning the latest game in 2014. This season, it would appear Alabama’s number two overall ranking would create a convincing argument for a consecutive victory in 2015, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. When these two teams collide, all bets are off. In 2014, Alabama won a thrilling game 55-44. In 2013, Alabama was kicking a 57-yard field goal for the win, but fell short and was returned from deep by Auburn to seal a victory with a miraculous touchdown.
Regardless of the circumstances, it seems this game always promises to be one for the books. While Auburn is unranked, it would seem they still have talent necessary to put up a fight against the leader in the SEC. This could very easily become a dog-fight between two very competitive rivals.
Keys to Victory – Alabama
- Derrick Henry, RB
Alabama has long been a ground and pound team under Nick Saban, focused on a powerful running attack and a stout defense. Each year, Alabama churns out NFL caliber running backs and this year is no different. Derrick Henry has played himself into the Heisman conversation with almost 1,000 yards rushing and 11 TD’s. When he has a big game, Alabama’s chances of success improve. Henry won’t need to work miracles to beat Auburn, but does need to keep up his physical, downhill style of running.
- Defensive Line
With what is regarded as the best defensive front in college football, much will be expected of them as they get ready to face the Tigers aggressive offense. With Jonthan Allen, A’Shawn Robinson, and Jarran Reed, they should be more than up to the task. This defense completely shut down Leonard Fournette and will need to keep up that stellar play in order to keep Alabama on pace for the College Football playoffs.
Keys to Victory – Auburn
- Success on Third Down
In last years shootout, Auburn pushed a tempo that made Alabama uncomfortable. Their offense seemed to click, despite the 55-44 loss. However, 2014 showed an inability by the Tigers to convert on 3rd down, converting just nine of 19 chances. With Alabama’s ability to shut down the running game, it will be crucial for Auburn to have success in converting 3rd downs.
2. Forcing Turnovers
Alabama’s only loss on the year came against Ole Miss, in a game where it committed five turnovers. While Alabama hasn’t committed more than two since, it will be crucial for the Tigers to score a defensive touchdown at some point in the game if it hopes to have any chance. Auburn has only scored two this season, but is more than capable of making it happen.
Players to Watch
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Alabama – Dominick Jackson, OT
Auburn’s defensive line is one that is in constant motion, however one thing can be almost certain: the Crimson Tide’s starting Right Tackle Dominick Jackson will be matched up with the Tiger’s top pass rusher, Carl Lawson. He has struggled with injury lately, suffering a high ankle sprain against Tennessee. If he is healthy and able to play, he will need to play at a high level if Alabama’s running game is to continue to be dominant.
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Auburn – Carl Lawson, DE
If you are to have success against one of the top teams in the country, your top players need to perform at their peak performance. Carl Lawson may be the top player on the Tiger’s squad and will have to produce if Auburn hopes to have any chance at winning. If he can generate enough pressure to make Jake Coker uncomfortable, the Tigers can then put the ball in the hands of it’s offense to make more plays.
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Final Verdict
Despite the competitiveness of both sides when it comes to this game, Alabama brings a much tougher presence on both offense and defense than the Tigers. The Crimson Tide should be able to roll their way to victory.
Alabama – 45, Auburn – 21