If the oddsmakers are accurate it could be a close game in Auburn. There are five problem areas Alabama football must avoid to win.
As Alabama football fans know, nothing – absolutely nothing – can ever be taken for granted against Auburn in Auburn. Even those skeptical of superstition will acknowledge there could well be bad juju for opposing teams in Jordan-Hare.
Early odds before Tua’s injury had the Crimson Tide a two-touchdown favorite. Currently, Alabama football is favored by four points. Four points is a sliver in a ‘juju’ world.
Alabama football with Tua would have beaten the Tigers handily. Two touchdowns seem right, maybe more, given the huge advantage Tide receivers have over the Auburn secondary. No slight intended to Mac Jones, but without Tua, it could be a very different game.
The Auburn defensive front is so good, it makes up for an average secondary. The overall Tigers defense could keep Auburn in the game. Close enough, the current odds could be an accurate predictor.
If it is that close, there are five problem areas Alabama football must avoid. We could have made it six by including, don’t lose the turnover battle, but that applies to every game between top foes.
Winning the Iron Bowl by even a single point calls for a celebration. Winning, however, is not enough for the Crimson Tide. The CFB Selection Committee needs to see a statement win by the Tide. It needs to see a still explosive Tide offense without Tua. A double-digit win is needed and a two-touchdown win would be even better.