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Auburn LB Zakoby McClain has big confidence going into game vs. Alabama

Zakoby McClain (#9) of Auburn called for targeting in 2021 matchup against Penn State
Matthew O'Haren - USA Today Sports

Auburn has an opportunity to do two things on Saturday: enter its bowl game with a win and spoil Alabama’s chances at the College Football Playoff. 

The Iron Bowl has been a conversation since the summer. Tigers’ defensive lineman Tony Fair posted a video to Twitter with the caption: “We’re comin’ to take the head off the elephant.”

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Bo Nix echoed those words at SEC Media Days, and he continued by stating how Alabama receives all the calls from officials.

Regardless of the chatter, Auburn is up for the matchup at Jordan-Hare Stadium. The Tigers have won four of seven games at home against the Tide in the Nick Saban era — including victories in 2017 and 2019. Auburn believes it can knock off Alabama, despite not having Nix. T.J. Finley will serve as its starting quarterback.

Zakoby McClain, a senior, is in his final Iron Bowl. 

The defensive captain leads the Tigers for total tackles (89) and has seven tackles for loss, two sacks, four pass breakups, and two quarterback hurries. He sets the tone for Auburn as a linebacker. McClain has confidence in facing Alabama, and he shared it via social media.

Hopefully, the Tide is prepared to match the Tigers’ intensity.

Each opponent gives Alabama its best game, and Auburn does it well. CBS Sports will have the call at 2:30 p.m. CT.

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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.

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Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 10+ years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

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