Alabama Crimson Tide Football

The Alabama Crimson Tide football program, representing the University of Alabama, is a legendary powerhouse in NCAA history. With a rich heritage dating back to 1892, they've clinched an impressive 18 national championships, including 13 in the poll era. The iconic Bear Bryant era from 1958 to 1982 brought six national titles. Under the leadership of head coach Nick Saban, Alabama has added six more national championships, solidifying its status as a dominant force in college football. Boasting 954 official victories and 33 conference championships, they're a formidable presence in the NCAA. Their home games unfold at the colossal Bryant–Denny Stadium, a 101,821-seat arena that ranks among the world's top ten non-racing stadiums. Alabama's football legacy is one of remarkable triumph and enduring tradition.

The Alabama Crimson Tide, affectionately known as Alabama or simply Bama, stands as an indomitable force in the realm of American college football. Founded in 1892, this storied program represents the University of Alabama and competes at the highest level in the NCAA's Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), specifically in the fiercely competitive Western Division of the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

Alabama's illustrious football history features 18 national championships, including 13 in the modern era and five prior to formal polls. Led by iconic coaches like Bear Bryant, they've clinched 33 conference titles and boast a record 76 bowl game appearances with 46 victories. Their 17 division titles in the SEC showcase their ongoing dominance.

Alabama's football legacy is embodied by Bryant–Denny Stadium, a massive arena in Tuscaloosa, seating 100,077 ranking as one of the top ten stadiums globally. It pays homage to Coach Bear Bryant's legendary career. The team's cherished mascot, "Big Al," has been a symbol of strength and pride since 1979.

Alabama Crimson Tide History

Alabama's football journey, known as the Crimson Tide, commenced in 1892, with a total of 28 head coaches guiding the team. The adoption of the iconic moniker "Crimson Tide" in 1907 marked a turning point in the team's history. Distinguished coaches like Bear Bryant, Frank Thomas, and Wallace Wade played pivotal roles in leading the team to conference triumphs and national championships.

Alabama's championship pedigree includes a remarkable 18 claimed national titles. Although the NCAA doesn't officially designate champions, major selectors such as the Associated Press and Coaches' Poll recognize Alabama's supremacy. The team's championship victories in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2020 solidify its status as a college football powerhouse.

Alabama Crimson Tide Coach

Nick Saban, born October 31, 1951, is a revered American football coach. He has led the University of Alabama's football team since 2007, earning recognition as one of the sport's greatest coaches. Saban boasts a remarkable record, achieving national championships at LSU and Alabama, totaling seven titles—the most in college football history. He stands alongside Bear Bryant as the sole coach to win SEC championships at two different schools. Saban's coaching legacy, marked by four Heisman Trophy winners at Alabama, solidifies his iconic status in the sport.

Alabama Crimson Tide Stadium: Bryant-Denny Stadium

Bryant–Denny Stadium, located on the University of Alabama's Tuscaloosa campus, serves as the home field for the Alabama Crimson Tide football team in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Originally known as Denny Stadium when it opened in 1929, it was later renamed in honor of the iconic head coach Paul "Bear" Bryant in 1975.

This historic stadium, with a seating capacity of 100,077, ranks as the fourth-largest in the SEC, the eighth-largest in the United States, and the tenth-largest globally. Over the years, it underwent multiple expansions, gradually increasing its capacity.

Recent upgrades, part of a $600 million campus athletic facilities enhancement plan, have transformed the stadium with improved amenities, premium seating, enhanced athlete and recruit spaces, and impressive LED lighting displays. These improvements continue to solidify Bryant–Denny Stadium's status as an iconic college football venue.

Alabama Crimson Tide Rivals

The Alabama Crimson Tide's football legacy is marked by intense rivalries that are more than just games; they are annual battles for pride and supremacy. The renowned Iron Bowl is chief among these, which pits the Crimson Tide against in-state rival Auburn University. Widely recognized as one of the most heated sporting rivalries in the United States, this clash began in 1893 when Auburn emerged victorious with a score of 32-22.

The Iron Bowl transcends the gridiron; it symbolizes state pride and divides Alabama's passionate fan base. The outcome of this game carries "bragging rights" for Alabamians until the next encounter and often decides the representative from the SEC Western Division in the SEC Championship Game.

The Iron Bowl rivalry between Alabama and Auburn briefly halted in 1907 due to violence and financial issues. However, it resumed in 1948, with Alabama securing a resounding 55-0 victory, still the largest margin in Iron Bowl history. Auburn's thrilling 14-13 win in the subsequent game reignited the fierce competition. Another notable rivalry is with the Tennessee Volunteers, known as the "Third Saturday in October" since 1901, marked by periods of dominance. In the SEC Western Division, the annual showdown with LSU, dating back to 1895, saw an 11-game win streak with intensified rivalry during Nick Saban's tenure in the "Saban Bowl."

Iron Bowl

The Iron Bowl, a legendary college football rivalry between the Auburn University Tigers and the University of Alabama Crimson Tide, has etched its place as one of America's most celebrated sporting duels. Commencing in 1893, this SEC showdown unfolds annually in the state of Alabama, captivating fans with its history and intensity.

Named the "Iron Bowl" by Auburn Coach Ralph "Shug" Jordan in 1964, the rivalry embodies the industrial might of Birmingham, where it traditionally took place. It's a unique "bowl game" unto itself, steeped in tradition.

Both Alabama and Auburn have achieved remarkable success, boasting numerous SEC titles and national championships. The rivalry has been elevated by the sustained excellence of these two powerhouse programs, captivating audiences on a national scale.

Though the game's venue has shifted from Auburn to Birmingham, Montgomery, and Tuscaloosa, the passion and rivalry remain unwavering. Alabama leads the series, but the Iron Bowl's essence transcends statistics, defined by its rich history, dramatic moments, and the profound pride of two football giants.

Alabama Crimson Tide Record and stats

In recent years, the Alabama Crimson Tide football program has glittered with a string of remarkable achievements, securing national championships in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2020. These titles, recognized by esteemed selectors like the Associated Press and Coaches Poll, underscore their modern-era dominance.

Adding to their legacy, Alabama's talented athletes have earned numerous accolades, with players like Will Anderson Jr. and Brian Branch being named First Team All-Americans in 2022. These honors reflect the exceptional skill and dedication of Crimson Tide players.

Moreover, Alabama's connection to football greatness extends to the College Football Hall of Fame, where 22 players and four former coaches have been inducted, showcasing their rich history in the sport. Alabama's recent successes and player achievements exemplify their enduring prominence in college football.

Conference championships

Division championships

Alabama Crimson Tide Roster

Alabama Crimson Tide Schedule