Alabama-Auburn Rivalry: Iron Bowl Is More Than Just a Game

Alabama vs. Auburn isn't just a rivalry; it's a way of life.

A new documentary in the ESPN series "30-for-30" examines exactly what that means, and is set to air on Tuesday night.

The state of Alabama has a number of different schools, but there is one decision that will define an Alabamian for the rest of their life: Roll Tide or War Eagle.

The Alabama Crimson Tide lead the series 40-34-1. The game itself is called the Iron Bowl.

Regardless of record. Regardless of individual accolades. Regardless of National Championship aspirations. 

Nothing glares out of an Alabama and Auburn schedule like the traditional Thanksgiving weekend showdown between the two teams.

It is more than just a game to the players, alumni and fans of the two universities; it consumes what they actually identify with.

To Roll Tide or cry War Eagle isn't something you can simply fake. And it isn't something that Alabamians take lightly.

Director Martin Khodabakhshian went above and beyond to document what this contentious rivalry is all about.

With no pro sports teams in the state of Alabama, the annual tussle between the two SEC powerhouses is the most relevant and talked about extravaganza of the year.

Whether it is at Jordan-Hare Stadium or Bryant-Denny Stadium (it was also played at Legion Field for many years) the two fan bases turn out in droves.

But the one thing that makes this rivalry so much different from others, and more than just a game, is the fans.

The Cam Newtons, Mark Ingrams, Jason Campbells, Stanley McClovers, Cadillac Williams, Gene Stallings, Van Tiffins, Bo Jacksons, Pat Dyes, Kenny Stablers, Joe Namaths and Paul Bear Bryants of the rivalry are just part of the mystique.

The real greatness lies with the fans who wait all year long for one single game to dominate an entire state.

Only two games since the year 2000 have been decided by more than 10 points. More often than not, this game comes down to the bitter end.

And when it is over, win or lose, the fans turn around and get ready for next year.

A lot of the time, either one or both teams are headed for a potential National Championship or major bowl game in the process.

And even if they aren't, the fans treat it as such.

Alabama vs. Auburn doesn't ring home like Duke-UNC or Michigan-Ohio State. But make no mistake, it deserves to.

The Iron Bowl doesn't just consume these fans for one day or week. It consumes them for life.

The only that matters in the state of Alabama is: Roll Tide/War Eagle.