The talk has already started about if Alabama struggled in the Iron Bowl against an Auburn team that is down bad that they have no chance to beat Georgia. As Alabama fans, we know that is far from reality, considering what we have done against the Bulldogs after crazy endings in the Iron Bowl on the road.
For whatever reason, in Jordan-Hare Stadium, nothing makes sense, but that has not stopped the Tide from beating Georgia in the SEC Championship Game the next week. The biggest difference this time around will be having to beat a Kirby Smart team for a second time in the state of Georgia. It is hard enough to beat him once on the road, but twice in the same season seems a little daunting.
Of course, Georgia's first National Championship under Smart came in the rematch in Indianapolis after Bryce Young had a field day against the Bulldogs in Atlanta. There are plenty of people who still feel that had there not been the injuries to the top wide receivers that Nick Saban would have won that night as well. There is the normal drama for Kalen DeBoer's team going into the SEC Championship Game, as it looks like a loss could very well keep the Tide from being part of this year's 12-team field. A loss in 2021 and 2023 would have definitely kept Alabama from the playoff, so it will be interesting how this year plays out.
The most important thing for Alabama will be to come into this game loose and not be intimidated by the moment. Considering the confidence in the fourth and two touchdown pass from Ty Simpson to Isaiah Horton to seal the Iron Bowl that there is much fear in this team. Every time this season, when Alabama has had its back against the wall, they have handled things very well. I have no reason to think this team will again rise to the occasion with everything on the line and be a part of this year's 12-team playoff field.