Alabama-Auburn: A Taste of the Iron Bowl

Smith J. Howard

Senior Analyst Written on November 21, 2007

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Recruits?

You bet.

Coaches?

Why not.

Cheerleaders?

Wait...they argue over cheerleaders?

You'd better believe they argue over cheerleaders.

A few years ago, Auburn male cheerleader Christopher Bailey transferred to Alabama to cheer alongside his girlfriend.

When word got out, the entire state was in an uproar.

Auburn fans were upset that a loyal supporter had left the program. Alabama fans didn't want an Auburn cheerleader anywhere near their campus, much less cheering on Bama's sidelines.

To make matters worse, the Crimson-clad Bailey dared to let out a "War Eagle!" (Auburn's battle cry) during a sideline interview.

After the entire state picked its jaw up from the ground, the University of Alabama reportedly relieved Bailey from his cheering duties.

In other words, he was fired from the cheerleading squad.

For all that hullabaloo, though, the best thing about Iron Bowl week is the creative trash-talking that goes on in the memorabilia market.

In 2005, Auburn sacked Alabama quarterback Brodie Croyle 11 times, inspiring Tiger fans to create bumper stickers reading, "I sacked Brodie" and "Honk if you you sacked Brodie".

Alabama keeps it simpler, with shirts that read, "Got Twelve?"—as in twelve national titles.

Bama fans also have pretty cool hats that pay tribute to legendary coach Paul "Bear" Bryant's houndstooth headware.

Before last year's game, Auburn's "Fear the Thumb" shirts were a hot item. The Tigers were looking for their fifth straight Iron Bowl victory.

They got their victory, so they had to be more inventive with this year's shirts, letting Alabama fans know that, "This one's for you."

I know Alabama fans are sick of watching Auburn fans count victories on their fingers. I've even overheard a few Tide fans promoting possible shirt ideas should Bama win—à la Wyoming head coach Joe Glenn.

Some other historic facts about the Iron Bowl, in case you feel like quizzing your fellow tailgaters...

-In 1893, Auburn won the inaugural game 32-22.

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written on November 21, 2007 Sports