ESPN’s Shocking Pick for Auburn vs. Alabama: Who Will Claim the Iron Bowl Glory?

Here we are, folks — the grand finale of Auburn’s 2025 regular season is upon us, and boy, what a rollercoaster it’s been. The Tigers have faced their fair share of bumps and bruises this year, yet all eyes turn to one monumental showdown: the Iron Bowl against Alabama. This isn’t just another game; it’s a chance for Auburn to turn the tide, to claw back some pride, and to shake up the landscape on the plains. The stakes? Oh, they couldn’t be higher. For the first time since ’07, the showdown returns to primetime at Jordan-Hare Stadium — a night filled with thrilling memories and a Tigers’ victory that still echoes. Now, with an interim head coach steering a 5-6 squad, Auburn’s the underdog — but don’t you dare count them out just yet. It’s more than a game; it’s a statement. Alabama’s playoff dreams hang in the balance, and the Tigers’ fierce defense looks ready to test the Crimson Tide’s shaky running game. So buckle up — this Iron Bowl promises fireworks and drama galore, kicking off at 6:30 p.m. CT, live on ABC. Ready for the full scoop? LEARN MORE

The final regular season game of 2025 is here for the Auburn Tigers. While it has been a disappointing season, a win over Alabama in the Iron Bowl could help salvage a touch season on the plains.

Saturday will be the first time since 2007 that the Iron Bowl will be played in primetime at Jordan-Hare Stadium. The Tigers won that night 17-10 for their sixth consecutive win over the Crimson Tide under former head coach Tommy Tuberville. That was against Nick Saban who was in his first season at Alabama.

Auburn carrying a 5-6 record and an interim head coach in D.J. Durkin will be the underdog in the game. The ESPN Matchup Predictor has Alabama with a chance of victory at 73.5%. Auburn’s chance of winning is currently at 26.5%.

The motivation for the Tigers on Saturday will be to win the Iron Bowl and ruin any chance for Alabama to reach the College Football Playoff. In the latest rankings, Alabama is ranked No. 10 and a loss would surely put them out of contention. The Crimson Tide has struggled in their last three SEC games running the ball. In those games versus South Carolina, LSU, and Oklahoma they failed to rush for over 100 yards.

That does play into the strength of the Auburn defense. They rank fourth in the SEC allowing only 94 yards per game on the ground. The strategy should be to force Ty Simpson and the Alabama receivers to win the game. Offensively, Auburn needs to get Jeremiah Cobb and their running game going early. The Crimson Tide rank ninth in the SEC against the run, but they are first against the pass.

This Iron Bowl should turn out to be an instant classic like the last few played at Jordan-Hare Stadium. The game is scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. CT and will be broadcast by ABC.

Contact/Follow us @TheAuburnWire on X (Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Auburn news, notes, and opinions. You can also follow Phillip on Twitter @PJordanSports

This article originally appeared on Auburn Wire: Auburn football vs. Alabama Iron Bowl prediction from ESPN