Report card: Grading Auburn football's Iron Bowl loss to Alabama

AUBURN — For one last time this fall, Auburn football mounted a noble comeback that ended in defeat, falling to No. 10 Alabama 27-20 in another theatric Iron Bowl.

The Tigers roared back in the second half, out-scoring the Crimson Tide 20-10 after the visitors took a 17-0 lead in the second quarter. Still, Auburn couldn't close out. Alabama pulled ahead with 3:50 remaining and sealed the Tigers' fifth consecutive losing season after falling on a costly Cam Coleman fumble in the final minute.

Here's the Montgomery Advertiser's report card from Auburn's season-ending defeat:

Auburn football offense grade against Alabama: C-

Auburn found points on four of its final seven drives, which was a fitting response to a dismal first half. The turnovers, however, were mighty costly, proving to be the difference in the end result.

Auburn football defense grade against Alabama: B

Another commendable rebound for Auburn, holding the Crimson Tide to just 10 points and 155 yards of total offense after it took a 17-0 lead.

Auburn football special teams grade against Alabama: B+

All systems were go on special teams. Hudson Kaak held up his end of the bargain, and Alex McPherson was again perfect.

Auburn football coaching grade against Alabama: C

With how the second half went, there's kudos for this coaching staff. The blunder of 10 men on the field during one of Alabama's first half touchdown was, in a sense, remedied. What wasn't was the penalties, which cost Auburn once again.

Auburn football final grade from Iron Bowl loss: C+

It was impressive late, but Auburn found another fitting result despite its efforts — and an apt ending for a disappointing season.

Adam Cole is the Auburn athletics beat writer for the Montgomery Advertiser. He can be reached via email at [email protected] or on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, @colereporter. To support Adam's work, please subscribe to the Montgomery Advertiser.

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Auburn football report card in Iron Bowl loss to Alabama