Behind Enemy Lines: Tigers Face Off vs Alabama in 2023 Iron Bowl

We take a look at the Crimson Tide coming into Jordan-Hare by speaking with an Alabama expert.

Joshua Collins | Nov 24, 2023

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Auburn Tigers

As Thanksgiving has now passed it is time for the most important game in the regular season for the state of Alabama, the Iron Bowl.

This season has been full of its ups and downs for the Auburn Tigers with being plagued by early season injuries to the difficulties of making the new offensive system click on the field. All that aside, the Auburn Tigers are looking for some redemption after an historic loss to the New Mexico State Aggies in week 12.

Coach Freeze has faced off against Coach Saban and has had success in previous contests, the Auburn faithful are surely hoping he will find similar success on Saturday.

In preparation for this matchup, we reached out to a local Alabama expert, Austin Hannon from Bama Central to get his thoughts on the upcoming game from “Behind Enemy Lines”.

What is the impact on the game planning for Alabama considering they are facing Auburn after a historical loss?

Hannon: I don't think there's any impact on game-planning. If anything, Alabama is probably more focused knowing that Auburn will be desperate for a win this week.

What would the reaction be for the Alabama fan base should they lose this game?

Hannon: Understandably, not good. While it's still on the outside looking in, the Crimson Tide has to win every game the rest of the way to make its way into the College Football Playoff. Pair that with the losses in the past — it would be another disappointing loss to a team that it's much better than.

Considering Coach Freeze has beaten Coach Nick Saban in the past, does that play a factor coming into this matchup?

Hannon: Maybe slightly? Saban has also beaten Freeze three times, so it's not like it's an obstacle he can't overcome. Also, those two Ole Miss teams were a lot better than this Auburn team right now.

Do you expect this to be a close game?

Hannon: Personally, I don't. These two teams are headed in a much different direction at the moment. Alabama is playing the best football it's played all season — the Tigers are coming off a loss to New Mexico State. Hearing Freeze say his team was still in a bit of a fog this week isn't what Auburn fans probably want to hear, especially with it being the Iron Bowl. The Crimson Tide certainly won't be in a fog.

What Auburn players do you feel that Alabama will prepare the most for?

Hannon: Saban has talked all week about the Tigers' rushing attack, and for good reason. Auburn has been abysmal in the passing game for two seasons now, and the Tigers were able to rack up 318 yards on the ground in Tuscaloosa last year. With that thinking, all eyes turn to Jarquez Hunter, probably.

What would you predict the stat line is for Quarterback Jalen Milroe during this game?

Hannon: I'd say he's got a good chance to have an impactful game. Auburn has been liable to giving up big plays this season, and not many have been better than Alabama in that category on offense — the Crimson Tide has thrived on big pass plays downfield. If he gets enough protection, it could be another strong performance for Milroe, who's been getting better with each week.

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Published Nov 24, 2023

JOSHUA COLLINS