Dave Martin / AP

Alabama's Chris Rogers celebrates after the No. 2 Crimson Tide's 26-21 win over Auburn on Friday.

The Tigers stunned the Tide by rocketing out to a 14-0 lead in the first 9:18. Alabama hadn’t allowed a touchdown in two games.

Receiver Terrell Zachery raced 67 yards for a touchdown on an end around on Auburn’s opening drive. It was the longest play Alabama’s defense had given up all season by 15 yards.

Then the Tigers recovered an onside kick to set up another score.

Alabama regained its footing. Richardson scored on a 2-yard plunge and McElroy hit tight end Colin Peek for a 33-yard touchdown that tied it at 14 at the half.

“You have to pick your medicine,” Ingram said. “If you want to stop one thing, we have to execute other aspects.

“Coming on the road, down 14-0 in a hostile environment, we weathered the storm.”

On the first drive of the second half, Todd pump faked and hit Darvin Adams for a 72-yard touchdown to make it 21-14.

Alabama had three straight trips across midfield, ending with two field goals by Leigh Tiffin and Ingram’s failed fourth-and-1 run.

Auburn was left nursing a 21-20 lead going into the fourth.

“We didn’t play with a lot of passion, and I don’t understand that,” Saban said. That changed late.”

The Tigers had a solid chance to extend the lead after taking over at Alabama’s 44 following yet another defensive stand. But the Tide defense made it’s best stand of the day, tackling Ben Tate for a 7-yard loss and sacking Todd.

That set the stage for McElroy, who must have won over even his most ardent doubters with the poise and precision he displayed as the clock wound down.

Afterward, Saban headed off the field with his right index finger raised toward ’Bama fans. A fan in an Auburn orange shirt said, “Undefeated, right?”

Saban tilted his head, expressionless, and walked into the tunnel, undefeated again.

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