Alabama wins the Iron Bowl, clinches spot in SEC Championship game vs. Georgia

Alabama knew what was at stake heading into Jordan-Hare Stadium on Saturday night. A win would keep the season alive, both in the SEC Championship race and College Football Playoff. A night game against Auburn is about as scary as it gets for the Crimson Tide, having a tough task.

But the Iron Bowl demons continue to stay away from Alabama. It’s now six straight wins in the rivalry, spanning over the last few seasons of Nick Saban‘s tenure and now two under head coach Kalen DeBoer. Alabama will now play in Atlanta next season against Georgia.

DeBoer called a play people wearing crimson will remember for a long time. On a 4th and 2 deep in the red zone, with the score tied, he kept the offense out there. Turning the ball over meant Alabama was in serious danger of losing. Any sort of points from Auburn likely would have won them the game.

Instead, he put the ball in the hands of quarterback Ty Simpson. A quick scan found wide receiver Isaiah Horton open in the end zone, giving Alabama a 27-20 lead — a score that went on to be final. Not a bad way to introduce yourself to the Jordan-Hare Stadium crowd.

Alabama now finishes the regular season with a 10-2 record. They control their own destiny when it comes to the CFP. A win in the SEC title game earns an automatic qualifier, not needing to impress the committee. Hopefully, a fun one takes place in Atlanta. After all, the previous matchup in Athens certainly entertained.

More on SEC Championship, second meeting between Alabama and Georgia

In a season where some fresh faces emerged at the top of the SEC, Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host two of its most frequent visitors. Alabama and Georgia have been common opponents for years now, also dating back to when Saban was in charge of the program.

DeBoer already owns two head-to-head victories over Kirby Smart. This game is the most important of the bunch, though, due to a trophy being handed out when the game ends. Smart knows a thing or two about winning the SEC himself, having three titles.

Kickoff from Atlanta is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET. The top ABC crew is expected to be on the call, with Chris Fowler and Kirk Herbstreit up in the booth and Holly Rowe, and potentially others, on the sidelines.