Auburn quarterback Byrum Brown just proved that the new-look Tigers are already preparing for the Iron Bowl against Alabama
New Auburn quarterback Byrum Brown took the podium at 2026 SEC Media Days in Tampa, Florida, and we asked about what it’s going to mean to face the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Iron Bowl.
While the Alabama Crimson Tide will take the podium(s) on Wednesday, Auburn quarterback Byrum Brown was at the podium on Tuesday and he is getting ready for the biggest rivalry game in the state, and he’s not taking it lightly. The Tigers’ new quarterback spoke about what the Iron Bowl means to him, to the program, and to the fans who live and breathe this matchup 365 days a year. With Auburn football gearing up for its clash against the Alabama Crimson Tide, Brown made clear that preparation for this game goes far beyond the typical game week.
Byrum Brown 2025 stats
(Played at University of South Florida)
- 3,158 yards passing, 1,000 yards rushing.
- 28 touchdowns, 7 interceptions.
- 66.3% completition percentage.
Auburn has a dedicated practice period for the Iron Bowl
Brown revealed that the Tigers dedicate a specific portion of their practice schedule to Iron Bowl preparation year-round. Auburn sets aside a fourth-quarter period specifically for the rivalry matchup, ensuring the team treats it with the weight it deserves regardless of where it falls on the calendar.
“We have a fourth quarter period dedicated to the Iron Bowl, and that is what it is,” Brown said.
That kind of commitment signals how seriously the new coaching staff and quarterback view the matchup. For a quarterback stepping into his first Iron Bowl, the level of institutional investment in the game has clearly made an impression.
Takeo Spikes helping Brown understand what the rivalry means
Brown also pointed to former Auburn great Takeo Spikes as someone who has helped him grasp the full scope of what this game represents. Spikes, one of the most decorated linebackers in program history, has shared with Thomas what the Iron Bowl meant to him during his playing days.
“I have talked to Takeo Spikes about it,” Brown said. “He’s expressed what that game means to him.”
Leaning on program legends to educate the current staff is a smart move, especially for a quarterback who didn’t grow up in the rivalry. Brown acknowledged that he has taken the time to learn the history and understand why this game carries so much weight across the state of Alabama.
Brown calls being part of the Auburn program ‘a blessing’
The emotion in Brown’s words was evident when he discussed what it means to be part of Auburn heading into this rivalry. He described the Iron Bowl as a 364-day bragging-rights battle for fans on both sides, and he understands the responsibility that comes with playing in it.
“Now to be able to be on the team, on the Auburn team, and go and do that is second to none,” Brown said.
For a quarterback still building his identity within the program, embracing the rivalry with this level of respect and preparation suggests Brown is fitting in on the Plains. How his offense performs when the Iron Bowl arrives will tell us whether that preparation translates to results on the field.