The heated rivalry between the Auburn Tigers and the Alabama Crimson Tide has reached new heights ahead of their much-anticipated Iron Bowl clash. Auburn freshman linebacker DeMarcus Riddick has sparked significant controversy with bold statements that have fans and analysts buzzing.
Auburn linebacker DeMarcus Riddick on Alabama:
“[Ryan Williams] ain’t really nobody to me.
Every rival team I played I never lost to. I will not to lose Bama while I’m here.”
(via @congdonsation) pic.twitter.com/DP8l9A3v35— Sidelines – Bama (@SSN_Alabama) November 25, 2024
In a recent interview, Riddick dismissed Alabama freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams as “not a big-time player,” claiming that Williams, despite his stellar performances, “ain’t really nobody to me.” He doubled down on his confidence by guaranteeing he would “not lose to Bama” during his time at Auburn. Riddick further declared himself faster than Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe and promised to prevent Milroe from escaping the pocket in the game.
These remarks have added a new layer of drama to an already intense rivalry. Riddick’s confidence is evident, but his statements have raised eyebrows, given the Tigers’ struggles in this matchup. Auburn hasn’t won back-to-back Iron Bowl games since 2006 and 2007, making Riddick’s promise to dominate Alabama appear overly ambitious.
Nah I’ve never seen this type of body control before. (ND)
Ryan Williams is DIFFERENT!
— Darius Butler (@DariusJButler) September 29, 2024
Alabama, coming off a disappointing loss to Oklahoma, has likely taken notice of Riddick’s comments. Many believed the Crimson Tide might face a letdown this week after seeing their College Football Playoff hopes fade. However, Riddick’s words may have provided Alabama with all the motivation they need to bring their best effort to Saturday’s game in Tuscaloosa.
Meanwhile, Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze is likely frustrated by the situation. Providing Alabama with bulletin board material before such a crucial game is rarely a wise move. Freeze’s long-term future with the Tigers remains uncertain, making this game even more critical for Auburn’s trajectory.
Riddick’s remarks also appear to underestimate the talent of Ryan Williams. At just 17 years old, the Alabama wide receiver has already dazzled in the SEC, showcasing exceptional body control and playmaking ability. His highlight-reel performance against Georgia earlier this season is being hailed as one of the best plays ever by a receiver at any level. Suggesting Williams isn’t a “big-time player” is a stance that analysts like former NFL star Darius Butler have strongly refuted, calling Williams “different” and unlike anything they’ve seen before.
This bold trash talk has injected even more energy into an already electrifying rivalry. As the Tigers and Crimson Tide prepare to face off, the stakes are higher than ever, and all eyes will be on whether Riddick’s confidence translates into results—or becomes a costly mistake that fuels Alabama’s fire.
