Auburn vs. Alabama, Iron Bowl Predictions and Previews

The Iron Bowl showcases the best of Alabama State’s flagship programs. For the Auburn Tigers, this year’s game, despite being a rivalry, includes the overriding appeal of bowl eligibility. With a win, the Tigers earn the right to a bowl game.

Remember that the bowl game is a reward. However, the chance of inflicting defeat on the University of Alabama cannot be underestimated. Auburn can win this game, but will they? Two interconnected ideas that need a solution.

Do you trust Thorne/Freeze?

Despite having offensive talent throughout the roster, Auburn still needs to win a game. Without a doubt, the pressure is entirely on Payton Thorne and of course Hugh Freeze. Thorne may be playing his final college game. Frankly, his career on The Plains disappointed many.

The season got off to a rocky start with Thorne at the helm. If he didn’t throw the interceptions early, he threw one late (Oklahoma). Auburn’s bowl hopes shouldn’t have been limited to the final game.

Wasting leads and making poor decisions dogged the offense all season. Still, with a win he can partially rewrite some of that history. This game has implications for cementing legacy.

Meanwhile, Hugh Freeze did not endear himself to the Auburn faithful. When Hugh didn’t put pressure on his team, the Tigers appeared underwhelmed in several games. The next 60 minutes of play will shape part of his perception.

The school won’t fire him after just two years, and he will bring an elite recruiting class to the Plains. These two factors remain his greatest salvation to this day.

Regression or zoning out?

Through his training and positive interactions, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has earned the respect of teammates and opponents alike. As a Heisman finalist last year, people expected him to continue down the same path. But this year, teams have been coming to Milroe frequently, and his numbers have suffered.

Milroe had 23 touchdowns to just six interceptions, while in 2024 he had 15 touchdowns and 9 interceptions.

This year’s Bama offense is missing something. Whether in the passing or running game, Milroe doesn’t look as comfortable. Many attribute it to a new coaching staff and a new coaching system. Others blame the mass exodus through the transfer portal after Nick Saban retired.

Either way, Milroe looks vulnerable at this point. Auburn needs to get home sooner and disguise its coverages better. Don’t let Milroe’s confidence build up.

Final prediction

In what could be Jarquez Hunter’s final collegiate game, you should see him with at least 20-25 touches. Against a shaky Alabama run defense, gaps will open up and he will exploit them. Count on him for at least 80 yards and at least one final trip to the end zone.

Meanwhile, the passing offense tries to come out with a throw as Freeze looks to throw the ball over Bryant-Denny. Thorne throws for two points. Unfortunately, to avoid a sack, he will throw at least one interception with the chance of several more.

Auburn won’t have freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams as he’s roaming free like it’s a third-grade break. Alabama kicker Graham Nicholson proves to be a crucial factor as Milroe gathers his strength and leads the Tide to the game winner.

Final result
Alabama: 33
Auburn 31