Goodman Predicts Alabama Will Lose to Auburn in the Upcoming College Football Playoffs
As the 2024 college football season heads toward its thrilling conclusion, the College Football Playoff (CFP) has created the perfect storm of excitement. With teams like Georgia, Michigan, and Ohio State firmly entrenched in the top ranks, it’s easy to overlook some of the rising threats in the SEC. However, the ultimate clash between Alabama and Auburn in the upcoming CFP, which is expected to take place in the postseason, may turn out to be one of the most consequential matchups of the season, and some experts, including former player and analyst Goodman, are predicting that Alabama will suffer a surprising loss to their fierce in-state rivals.
Goodman, known for his candid analysis and fearless takes on college football, has boldly stated that Alabama’s current roster, despite its wealth of talent and rich history of success, will not be enough to fend off an Auburn team that has been playing with fire in recent weeks. In this article, we’ll explore why Goodman believes Auburn will overcome Alabama, breaking down key factors such as the momentum shift in Auburn’s season, Alabama’s vulnerabilities, and the psychological and historical context of the rivalry.
Auburn’s Resurgence: A Rising Force
Auburn’s journey to the College Football Playoff may not have started with high expectations, but the Tigers have turned their season around in a spectacular fashion. In recent weeks, the Tigers have demonstrated impressive offensive prowess, significantly improving their playmaking ability under head coach Hugh Freeze. Freeze, who took over the Auburn program with the goal of reviving its competitive edge, has successfully injected a fresh energy into the team, especially on offense.
Quarterback Payton Thorne, a transfer from Michigan State, has grown more comfortable in his new environment, and his ability to both throw and run the ball adds an extra layer of unpredictability for opposing defenses. Thorne has made significant strides in his decision-making, and his arm strength has been a key factor in Auburn’s offensive improvement. Alongside Thorne, the Tigers’ running back room, led by Jarquez Hunter, has been one of the most productive in the SEC, consistently churning out tough yardage and controlling the clock.
Defensively, Auburn has remained as solid as ever. They’ve continued their tradition of tough, hard-nosed play, with standout linebacker Austin Keys anchoring the front seven. With a secondary capable of disrupting passing lanes and forcing turnovers, Auburn has emerged as one of the most balanced and complete teams in the SEC, capable of keeping pace with the best.
Alabama’s Vulnerabilities
On the other side of the rivalry, Alabama enters the postseason with the weight of its history behind them. Head coach Nick Saban has built a dynasty at Alabama, and with perennial Heisman Trophy contenders and a roster full of NFL-bound talent, the Crimson Tide are a program that can never be counted out. However, Goodman’s analysis points to several vulnerabilities that could lead to Alabama’s downfall.
First and foremost, Alabama’s offense has been inconsistent. Quarterback Jalen Milroe, who started the season as the clear starter, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also made critical mistakes. Milroe’s struggles with accuracy and decision-making have become more evident as the season has progressed, and opposing defenses have exploited those weaknesses. In their loss to Texas earlier in the season, Milroe threw two critical interceptions that ultimately cost Alabama the game. In high-stakes matchups, especially one as emotionally charged as the Iron Bowl, those mistakes can be even more costly.
Additionally, Alabama’s offensive line has been less dominant than in previous seasons. While still powerful, they have faced increased pressure in key games, and against a stout Auburn defense, this could spell trouble. Auburn’s ability to generate pressure, especially from the edge, could disrupt Alabama’s offensive rhythm and force Milroe into uncomfortable situations.
On defense, while Alabama remains formidable, Goodman points out that the Tide has shown occasional lapses in coverage, particularly against teams with dynamic, mobile quarterbacks. Auburn’s Thorne, with his ability to extend plays and create opportunities with his legs, could be the kind of player to expose these gaps. Alabama’s secondary, while talented, has occasionally been vulnerable to deep balls, and Auburn’s aggressive passing attack, combined with their solid rushing game, could test Alabama in ways they haven’t been tested all season.
The Rivalry: Psychological and Historical Factors
The rivalry between Alabama and Auburn, known as the Iron Bowl, is one of the most heated and unpredictable matchups in college football. The passion, intensity, and unpredictability of the game often result in shocking outcomes, and this year’s contest may be no different. Historically, the Iron Bowl has been a source of upsets, with Auburn managing to pull off surprises against Alabama at some of the most unexpected moments.
In 2019, Auburn handed Alabama one of its rare regular-season losses, and in 2017, a stunning victory by Auburn in the Iron Bowl helped to derail Alabama’s playoff hopes. There’s a certain magic that comes with the Iron Bowl, where anything can happen, and Goodman’s prediction of an Auburn victory is partly based on the unique psychological dynamics that come into play in this rivalry.
Auburn players and coaches understand the significance of this game and will likely approach it with a chip on their shoulder, knowing that they have a real chance to spoil Alabama’s postseason aspirations. The added pressure on Alabama, with their history of success and high expectations, could weigh heavily on their players, especially those who have not experienced the full intensity of the Iron Bowl rivalry.
Key Matchup: The Battle in the Trenches
Ultimately, Goodman believes that the battle in the trenches will be the deciding factor. Auburn’s defensive line has been playing at an elite level, and with their ability to disrupt the pocket, they could make life very difficult for Milroe. Conversely, Auburn’s offensive line has been quietly effective, paving the way for a dynamic rushing attack. If they can establish a physical presence against Alabama’s defensive front, it could open up opportunities for Thorne and his playmakers to capitalize on.
Auburn’s ability to win the line of scrimmage and keep the pressure off Thorne while forcing Milroe into tough situations could be the key to securing an upset.
