How Alabama reaches the SEC Championship: win the Iron Bowl

Christian Standal

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How Alabama reaches the SEC Championship: win the Iron Bowl image

Alabama dominated Eastern Illinois on Saturday, securing a 56–0 victory that showcased their depth and momentum heading into a crucial final week of the regular season. Ty Simpson threw for 147 yards, while Keelon Russell and Austin Mack combined to go 12-for-14 for 123 yards. Jaylen Mbakwe, Kevin Riley, and Marshall Pritchett helped the receiving corps rack up 270 yards with several big plays that kept drives alive.

After the game, head coach Kalen DeBoer praised Simpson’s decision-making, particularly his late interception attempt. “He has to throw it in the end zone at the end of the half,” DeBoer said. “I’m glad he threw it there. That shows he cares more about scoring than protecting stats. That’s the mindset we want.”

Despite the lopsided win, Alabama’s focus remains clear: beat Auburn in the Iron Bowl and secure a spot in the SEC Championship.

Alabama enters the final week in prime position. Their win over Eastern Illinois kept them among the one-loss SEC teams trailing undefeated Texas A&M. The Crimson Tide hold advantages in nearly every tiebreaker scenario, including a head-to-head victory over Georgia, a 24–21 win on Sept. 27 and a superior conference opponent win percentage compared to Ole Miss and Georgia. This means Alabama controls its destiny: a win over Auburn on Saturday, Nov. 29 at 7:30 p.m. ET, guarantees a berth in the SEC Championship Game on Dec. 6 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Who Alabama faces depends on other results. If Texas A&M beats Texas and Alabama beats Auburn, the Tide will meet the undefeated Aggies. If Texas upsets Texas A&M and Alabama wins, they’ll earn a rematch with Georgia for the title. Either way, the Iron Bowl decides Alabama’s path forward.

Saturday’s win highlighted Alabama’s dominance. They amassed 539 total yards while limiting Eastern Illinois to just 34. The running game was relentless, with 269 yards and eight touchdowns shared among backs Jam Miller, AK Dear, Kevin Riley, and Austin Mack, who also added a 20-yard touchdown run.

Defensively, Alabama was suffocating only allowing 14 rushing yards on 30 attempts and 20 passing yards. The Tide recorded three sacks, nine tackles for loss, and an interception from Dijon Lee Jr., sealing a complete defensive effort.

While the rout was expected, the true challenge lies ahead. The Iron Bowl, one of college football’s fiercest rivalries, carries added weight this season. A division title, an SEC Championship berth, and playoff hopes all depend on this one game.

Alabama has done its part. Now the Tide must finish the job. Win next week, and the road to Atlanta is theirs.

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Contributing Writer