Alabama Auburn Iron Bowl 2025: Crimson Tide Survives Thrilling Rivalry Showdown

The Alabama Auburn rivalry delivered another unforgettable chapter Saturday night as the Crimson Tide escaped with a 27-20 victory in the 2025 Iron Bowl. In a game that came down to the final minutes, Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson etched his name into rivalry lore with a gutsy fourth-down touchdown pass to Isaiah Horton.

Ty Simpson's Heroic Moment Saves Alabama Season

With just 3:50 remaining and the game tied at 20-20, Alabama faced a critical fourth-and-two situation. Head coach Kalen DeBoer made the bold call to go for it rather than attempt a short field goal, and Simpson delivered when it mattered most.

The sophomore quarterback found Horton in the end zone for a six-yard touchdown, capping a pressure-packed drive that will live on in Alabama Auburn history. Simpson's poise under pressure proved exactly what the Crimson Tide needed to keep their playoff dreams alive.

"The fact I get to say that I led a game-winning drive in the Iron Bowl, that's something I'll tell my kids' kids," Simpson said after the game. "Just super incredible."

Kalen DeBoer's Bold Call and Perfect Punchline

DeBoer's decision to go for it on fourth down rather than kick a short field goal raised eyebrows, but the first-year Alabama coach had the perfect explanation ready.

When asked why he made the gutsy call, DeBoer delivered a zinger that brought smiles to everyone who remembers Alabama Auburn history: "I figured it was 29 yards shorter than the last time we needed a touchdown here."

The coach was referencing Jalen Milroe's legendary fourth-and-31 touchdown pass to Isaiah Bond in the 2023 Iron Bowl, which gave Nick Saban a victory in his final appearance in this storied rivalry. DeBoer's quick wit showed he already understands the weight and history of the Alabama Auburn matchup.

Alabama's Playoff Path Still Alive

The victory improved Alabama to 10-2 on the season and kept the Crimson Tide firmly in College Football Playoff contention. A third loss would have likely ended their championship hopes, but now Alabama controls its destiny heading into the SEC Championship game.

The No. 10 Crimson Tide will face Georgia next weekend in Atlanta. A win would punch their ticket to the playoff, while even a competitive loss might be enough to secure a spot depending on how other conference championships shake out.

DeBoer made his case clear in the postgame press conference: "We've got quality-strength wins and some wins on the road. We've got more than a playoff-caliber football team."

Auburn Outgained Alabama But Couldn't Finish

Despite the loss, Auburn actually outgained Alabama by 131 yards in total offense. The Tigers moved the ball effectively throughout the night but couldn't capitalize when it mattered most.

The Alabama Auburn rivalry has always been about who makes plays in crunch time, and on this night, the Crimson Tide made the bigger plays when the pressure was highest. Alabama's defense forced a crucial fumble late in the game to seal the victory after Simpson's touchdown.

Iron Bowl History Continues to Amaze

The Alabama Auburn series has produced countless memorable moments over the decades, and 2025 added another thrilling chapter. This marks the second consecutive Iron Bowl decided by fourth-down heroics in the final minutes, cementing this rivalry's reputation as one of college football's most unpredictable and exciting matchups.

For Alabama fans, the victory keeps the season alive and championship hopes burning bright. For Auburn supporters, it's another heartbreaking near-miss in a rivalry that never fails to deliver drama.

The Crimson Tide now shifts focus to Georgia and the SEC Championship, knowing that Ty Simpson's fourth-down strike to Horton may have saved their entire season. In the Alabama Auburn rivalry, moments like these become legends that fans talk about for generations.

As both teams head in different directions—Alabama toward the playoff chase and Auburn toward hiring a new coach—one thing remains certain: when Alabama and Auburn meet on the football field, anything can happen. That's what makes this rivalry special, and 2025 proved it once again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score of the Alabama Auburn game?

Alabama defeated Auburn 27-20 in the 2025 Iron Bowl. The Crimson Tide secured the victory on a Ty Simpson touchdown pass to Isaiah Horton with 3:50 remaining in the fourth quarter.

Who won the Alabama Auburn Iron Bowl 2025?

Alabama won the Iron Bowl with a 27-20 victory over Auburn on November 30, 2025. The win improved Alabama's record to 10-2 and kept their College Football Playoff hopes alive heading into the SEC Championship game.

How did Ty Simpson perform in the Iron Bowl?

Ty Simpson delivered the game-winning touchdown pass to Isaiah Horton on a crucial fourth-and-two play with under four minutes remaining. The six-yard touchdown completion capped a pressure-packed drive and gave Simpson a memorable moment in Alabama Auburn rivalry history.

Is Alabama in the College Football Playoff?

After beating Auburn, Alabama remains in strong playoff contention at 10-2. The Crimson Tide will face Georgia in the SEC Championship game, where a victory would secure their playoff berth. Even a competitive loss might be enough depending on other conference championship results.

What did Kalen DeBoer say about the Iron Bowl?

Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer joked about his fourth-down decision, saying "I figured it was 29 yards shorter than the last time we needed a touchdown here," referencing the 2023 Iron Bowl's famous fourth-and-31 play. He also expressed confidence that Alabama deserves a playoff spot based on their quality wins.