SEC Football

Alexander City Outlook: A Lot At Stake For Tigers in Iron Bowl

From the Alexander City Outlook:

This year's Iron Bowl sure seems like a forgone crimson-colored conclusion doesn't it? If you are a resident Los Angeles, Des Moines or Rochester, this contest looks like a cake walk. The nation's number one ranked team against one that has just been rank.

In this state, though, we all know this game has plenty of meaning. First and foremost, there are the bragging rights which will probably lead to some younger fans of the losing team to stay home from school sick just to avoid the taunting. However, this year's bragging rights take a back seat; this Iron Bowl means much, much more.

From an Alabama perspective, the game represents yet another chance to chant the "We're back!" cheer ad nauseam. A win over their arch rival would certainly create a whirlwind of unmatched anticipation for the SEC title game in the Georgia Dome. As long as ‘Bama gets to Florida unscathed, it means that Saban's crew would be in line for the school's second BCS bowl bid and a boatload of cash.

It would also mark the first time the Tide has beaten Auburn since "Jurassic Park III," "Rush Hour 2" and the first "Shrek." I guess Alabama fans are just thankful Brad Pitt already made a movie called "Seven."

Despite all of the opportunities, money and pride on the line for the Tide, I believe this game actually carries more weight for the Tigers. Saturday's game isn't just about playing another team on an already disappointing schedule. Losing would be more than just another notch in the "L" column.

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