The Iron Bowl of 2011 was a complete meltdown for the Auburn Tigers. Alabama hammered in a 42 - 14 victory over their heated state rival, and sent a message to the rest of the nation.
To Auburn's credit, they battled and even had a few highlights of their own. One coming late in the first quarter with Ken Carter's fumble recovery for a touchdown. And then to start the second half, Auburn's Onterio McCalebb returned the kickoff 83 yards for another 6.
But the stout Alabama defense was again "the writing on the wall" for the Tigers. SEC's #2 rusher, Mike Dyer, was held to just 13 carries for 48 yards. Most of these yards came in the second half. Clint Moseley also failed to find much of a rhythm against the Tide's defense; passing for just 62 yards on 18 attempts. The real nail in the coffin was the pick 6 to Alabama's Dee Milliner in the fourth quarter.
Of course, much of this could have still been manageable if it weren't for Alabama's offense also firing on all cylinders. Heisman candidate, Trent Richardson, put up a whopping career best 203 yards on 27 runs. Also capping off his performance with a 5 yard touchdown catch. With a running game like that, it's hard to imagine McCarron having anything left on the stat sheets to boast of. However, most coaches would have certainly been pleased with his solid performance as well: 18 of 23 for 184 yards, and 3 touches to boot.
If you're a Tide fan, the rich history of The Iron Bowl just got a little sweeter. This legendary state rivalry now sits at 41–34-1 favoring Alabama. And no one can deny on this Saturday, the Crimson Tide was the better team on the field. Tiger fans will have to wait until next year for a shot to reclaim bragging rights.
