DJ Dale opens up on what the Iron Bowl means to him as a Birmingham native

The annual Iron Bowl between instate rivals Alabama and Auburn is a huge deal in the state, no matter what the team’s records are entering the game. And one could say it’s an even bigger deal if you are a native of Alabama like the Crimson Tide’s DJ Dale. Ahead of the Iron Bowl, Dale opened up on what it means to him as a Birmingham, AL, native to play in this huge rivalry.

“It’s going to mean a lot, being from here and this being a home game. We try and approach every game the same,” said Dale. “You don’t want to make it too big, but I’m just going to live in the moment; play in the moment. It’s definitely going to be fun. This is a game you dream of playing in when you’re a kid from Birmingham. It’s a dream come true.”

The Crimson Tide senior defensive tackle has been on the roster for three Iron Bowl matchups but only took part in one; in his sophomore season in 2020. Alabama beat Auburn decidedly 42-13 on their way to a national championship. This year’s Iron Bowl is likely to be more impactful to Dale, given it is probably the last time he will suit up and play in this rivalry game. And to amplify the feeling that much more for Dale, Saturday’s Iron Bowl will be Alabama’s senior game. And also, their final game of the season before the bowl season starts.

Alabama lands at No. 7 in CFB Playoff rankings after Week 12

 The latest College Football Playoff rankings following Week 12 of the college football season have been released. On Tuesday night, it was revealed that Alabama now checks in at No. 7 in the rankings after beating Austin Peay 34-0 in Tuscaloosa this past Saturday.

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This weekend, the Crimson Tide are set to wrap up their regular season by playing Auburn in the annual Iron Bowl. Kickoff at Bryant-Denny Stadium is set for 2:30 p.m. CT (3:30 ET), and the game will air on CBS. If Alabama walks away victorious, it’ll make 15 straight seasons of 10-plus wins.

Meanwhile, the Tigers are trying to become bowl eligible.

They started 3-1, but then proceeded to lose four straight before now former head coach Bryan Harsin was fired. Since Cadillac Williams took over as the interim coach, Auburn has won two of three games with the lone loss coming in overtime against Mississippi State.