Auburn and Alabama fans show excitement ahead of the Iron Bowl

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - Fans of the Alabama Crimson Tide and Auburn Tigers have been patiently waiting all year for a chance at claiming glory and the bragging rights that come with beating their rival.

“It’s everything,” one fan said as Tide and Tiger supporters filled the streets near Auburn University ahead of the Iron Bowl.

For some, it’s also an opportunity to spend time with loved ones.

“It’s just really special to be here with my daughter and to see my son play in the band,” Jennifer Calvin, a University of Alabama alumna, said.

It was Auburn freshman Luke Belton Smith’s first Iron Bowl, and like many others, he was soaking in the atmosphere.

“It’s kind of crazy to be here as a student,” Smith said. “It’s been so hectic and so crazy trying to find friends. I think just the vibes here are electric and it’s amazing.”

The rivalry between Auburn and Alabama is a tale as old as time, and every year, it culminates in the Iron Bowl. While both teams fiercely dislike one another, supporters and players acknowledge that each side helps make the game what it is.

“I can’t really explain it, but I think Auburn and Alabama is the best rivalry in the whole football nation,” Evette Echols, the mother of a University of Alabama student, said, “Roll Tide!”

For Auburn, the game is a chance to reclaim the title of Iron Bowl champions for the first time since 2019.

“I have a lot of friends that go to Alabama, and I have to hear about it all year long,” said Auburn University senior Dillon Geditz. “To me, it’s like, if I can rub it in their face just a little bit, even if they’re going to the playoffs and we’re not, then, it just makes my heart whole.”

Alabama, meanwhile, is hoping to continue its streak and secure a spot in the College Football Playoff.

“I just hope we just beat them down,” Alabama fan Alesia Patrick said, “We don’t need no close game.”

One thing both sides agreed on: they want to bring home the win.

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