When Bruce Pearl’s Auburn and Alabama clash, it’s more than just a game—it’s a full-blown rivalry that sets the SEC on fire. This time, the stakes are even higher as both teams, tied at 10-1 in conference play, battle for conference supremacy. With Auburn sitting at 22-2 overall and Alabama close behind at 21-3, this showdown could decide who takes control of the SEC race.

Auburn, led by HC Pearl, is looking to capitalize on their home-court advantage, while Alabama aims to silence the crowd with their explosive offense. Key players to watch include Auburn’s dynamic duo of Johni Broome and Denver Jones, alongside Alabama’s Mark Sears and Grant Nelson. But injuries and lineup changes could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.

Injuries and lineups: Who’s in and who’s out?

Injuries are always a wildcard in rivalry games, and this one is no exception. For Auburn, all eyes are on Johni Broome, who has been nursing an ankle sprain since January 12 against South Carolina. While he’s been playing through it, his mobility and effectiveness could still be a concern against Alabama’s physical frontcourt.

On the Alabama side, freshman Derrion Reid remains a question mark. After missing the Georgia game on February 1 and sitting out against Texas, his status is still up in the air. Head coach Nate Oats has labeled Reid’s availability as “game-to-game,” leaving his role uncertain for this critical matchup. The Tide will also be without key bench contributors Houston Mallette (knee) and Latrell Wrightsell Jr. (Achilles tendon), both of whom remain sidelined.

As for the starting lineups,

Auburn Tigers:

• Johni Broome (#4) 
• Chris Moore (#5) 
• Dylan Cardwell (#44) 
• Denver Jones (#2) 
• Miles Kelly (#13) 

Alabama Crimson Tide:

• Jarin Stevenson (#15)
• Grant Nelson (#4)
• Clifford Omoruyi (#11)
• Chris Youngblood (#8)
• Mark Sears (#1)

ESPN Analytics gives Auburn a slight edge, with a 52.4% chance to win, while Alabama sits at 47.6%. It’s as close as it gets, and with both teams fighting for momentum before March, expect a battle. Auburn’s defense or Alabama’s firepower—something’s gotta give in this heated rivalry showdown.

Bruce Pearl’s Tigers battle Alabama in SEC showdown

This matchup isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s a pivotal moment in the SEC standings. Auburn and Alabama are neck-and-neck at 10-1 in conference play, and this game could be the tiebreaker that decides who takes control of the SEC race. For Auburn, a win would solidify their position as the team to beat, while Alabama is looking to prove they can outlast the Tigers in a hostile environment.

Alabama’s recent performance, including their 17 three-pointers against Texas, has shown they can light up the scoreboard. However, Auburn’s defense, which allows an average of just six made threes per game, will be a tough test.

Another consideration is the size benefit enjoyed by Alabama. With three players in their primary lineup measuring 6’11”, the Crimson Tide possess enough height to contend with Auburn’s interior defense. Although Johni Broome towers at 6’10”, Alabama’s more balanced scoring—the likes of which are headed by Mark Sears (17.5 PPG) and Chris Youngblood (10.7 PPG)—can potentially give them the edge.

Moreover, Alabama’s bench has been a deciding factor, as Mo Dioubate has turned out to be an important X-factor. His recent demonstration of a consistent three-pointer adds another dimension to his game, and he is now that much more hazardous.

This rivalry has been a wild ride over the years. Last season, Alabama edged out Auburn in a nail-biting overtime game, but the Tigers got their revenge later with a dominant home win. Now, with March Madness right around the corner, both teams have a lot on the line. For Bruce Pearl and Auburn, it’s a chance to prove they’re more than just a defensive powerhouse—they can run with the best offenses in the country. For Alabama, it’s about showing that their fast-paced, high-scoring style can hold up in one of the toughest road environments out there.

If you’re looking to catch the Auburn-Alabama showdown, you’ve got options. The game tips off at 3 p.m. CT at Coleman Coliseum and will be broadcast live on ESPN. You can also stream it on ESPN+ or Fubo.

Plus, ESPN’s “College GameDay” crew will be in Tuscaloosa for the matchup, kicking things off with their broadcast at 9 a.m. CT before the game airs later in the day. Don’t miss this one—it’s going to be electric.