Nick Saban
Nick Saban After being out-played for most of the game, the 2nd-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide was able to stay unbeaten and get the victory over their bitter rival, the Auburn Tigers.

Alabama stayed perfect with in an imperfect 26-21 victory over Auburn, taking the lead with an impressive drive that was capped by Greg McElroy's 4-yard touchdown pass to Roy Upchurch with just 1:24 left in the fourth quarter.

Heisman Trophy candidate Mark Ingram was bottled up by the Tigers defense all game long. Ingram had just 30 yards on 16 carries. However, the Tide overcame a furious Tigers start to complete a second straight perfect regular season in the Iron Bowl.

Alabama did it the hard way, falling behind in the opening minutes, but ultimately did
its part to set up a 1 vs. 2 showdown with top-ranked Florida in the SEC championship game.

"The strong do survive but the strong do get their butts kicked," Alabama coach Nick Saban said. "That was my message to the team."

Auburn had a huge first quarter, jumping out to a 14-0 lead.

After a three-and-out on the first Alabama possession, the Tigers got a 67-yard touchdown run from wide-out Terrell Zachary on a reverse and on the ensuing kick-off caught the Tide sleeping with an on-side kick.

Twelve plays later, Auburn took a two touchdown lead after a one-yard pass from quarterback Chris Todd to running back Eric Smith.

That 14 point lead was not enough for Auburn.

Alabama now looks ahead to the Florida Gators on December 5th in the SEC Championship Game.