As the college football season heats up, Alabama fans often find themselves looking for teams to support outside of their own beloved Crimson Tide. Whether it’s rooting for regional rivals, former Alabama players, or teams with compelling storylines, here are eight teams to consider cheering for this Saturday.
1. Auburn Tigers
The Iron Bowl rivalry runs deep, and while many Alabama fans may find it hard to root for the Auburn Tigers, it’s hard to ignore the significance of this in-state rivalry. If Auburn can secure a few key wins, it not only strengthens their own bowl eligibility but also boosts Alabama’s standing in the SEC. An Auburn victory against a ranked opponent could be beneficial for Alabama’s playoff aspirations.
2. LSU Tigers
Another SEC rival, LSU is always a formidable opponent and a team that can shake up the rankings. When LSU plays against top-ranked teams, their performance can influence Alabama’s positioning in the College Football Playoff race. For Alabama fans, cheering for LSU in key matchups could enhance their own team’s credentials come selection time.
3. Florida Gators
Historically, the Florida Gators have been one of Alabama’s primary rivals. A strong Gators squad that wins against tough opponents could help elevate Alabama’s status within the SEC. Rooting for Florida in certain games can create a win-win scenario, where the Gators help solidify Alabama’s dominance in the conference.
4. Tennessee Volunteers
The Volunteers have shown promise in recent seasons and have become a formidable opponent in the SEC. When Tennessee plays tough teams, their victories can reflect positively on Alabama. A strong Tennessee performance not only keeps the SEC competitive but also showcases Alabama’s strength when they face off against a well-ranked Vols team.
5. Ole Miss Rebels
The Rebels have been a consistent contender in the SEC West and have produced exciting offensive performances. If Ole Miss can pull off victories against ranked teams, it elevates Alabama’s own wins in the eyes of the College Football Playoff committee. Additionally, their high-scoring games provide thrilling entertainment for fans.
6. Georgia Bulldogs
As another powerhouse in the SEC, Georgia has become a significant competitor for Alabama. Supporting Georgia in their non-conference games can be strategic; if they maintain a strong record, it reflects well on Alabama. Furthermore, a potential SEC Championship rematch between Alabama and Georgia could become a classic showdown.
7. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
While not an SEC team, Notre Dame has a national following and plays a challenging schedule. Alabama fans might find common ground in rooting for the Fighting Irish, especially when they face other top-tier programs. Notre Dame’s performance can have implications for the playoff rankings, particularly if they defeat teams that Alabama might face.
8. Any Team with Former Alabama Players
Keep an eye on NFL teams featuring former Alabama stars, such as the Miami Dolphins or the Baltimore Ravens. On Saturdays, this might not directly correlate with college football, but Alabama fans can take pride in the success of former players. Watching these teams and their ex-Crimson Tide players can create a sense of community and pride, showcasing the talent developed in Tuscaloosa.
As Alabama fans gear up for Saturday, there are plenty of teams to root for that can enhance the excitement of the college football season. From regional rivals like Auburn and Tennessee to national powerhouses like Notre Dame, each team’s success can play a pivotal role in shaping Alabama’s own narrative. By supporting these teams, fans can enjoy the broader context of college football while maintaining a vested interest in how these games affect the Crimson Tide’s path to potential glory.
