It was a game that Alabama fans would like to forget, but some leaders were formed versus Auburn in the Iron Bowl. The trio of Mac Jones, Najee Harris and Jaylen Waddle on offense carried the Crimson Tide and gave it every shot to win at Jordan-Hare Stadium last week.
Jones, a redshirt sophomore, showed leadership and toughness.
He took a lot of hits in his first Iron Bowl start, but continued to battle and push through adversity on the road. Even with him having two pick-sixes, he responded with four touchdown passes and 335 passing yards – both were career-highs.
The native Floridian converted two third downs with his legs and showed the fan base that the stage is not too big for him.
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Harris, a junior, had his fifth 100-yard rushing performance.
He gashed thee Tigers’ defensive front for 146 yards with one touchdown on 27 carries. Harris constantly found himself hurdling defenders, powering through the line and making life difficult for Kevin Steele as Auburn’s defensive coordinator.
The California native had been on a serious surge since week four of the season and it continued against the Tigers.
Waddle, a sophomore, had a game for the ages.
After seeing Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs III and DeVonta Smith have big moments all year, Waddle has his time in the Iron Bowl. The native of Houston, Texas caught all four passes that were thrown to him for 98 yards and a game-high three touchdowns.
His connection with Jones was unbelievable and his speed in open space had Tiger defenders gassed.
As for his most memorable play, it came via 98 yards on his first-ever kickoff return score in the second quarter that tied the game at 17.
While it will be tough seeing the trio of Jeudy, Ruggs and Smith leave, having Waddle back next season will be special for fans to witness.
Regardless of the performances from these three, penalties, missed opportunities on defense and controversial calls ultimately led to Alabama falling to Auburn.
In Monday’s airing of In My Own Words, yours truly of Touchdown Alabama Magazine gives an instant reaction from the game.
You can also listen to the audio version of the podcast via Spreaker.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
