I've had that same thought however I'd argue they were still a couple years out at that point. I recall our defense laying an egg in the last quarter/half. Third and Chavis comes to mind.
I live in Alabama how does a tean and I really feel sorry for the Auburn fans. This is definitely an Alabama state that supports mostly Alabama. Auburn fans here are great people. The bammer fans act like Saban. The fans and the coach are a marriage made in heaven. BTW how does a team that placed second in their division, did not participate in the SEC title game get picked to go to the playoffs? Alabama should not be there but you have whiney Saban who cried untilhis team was allowed to go over Okie State