Tuscaloosa, Auburn mayors set annual charitable wager for Iron Bowl
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An annual tradition between the mayors of Tuscaloosa and Auburn is back for Iron Bowl week.
Tuscaloosa’s Walt Maddox and Auburn’s Ron Anders are betting on their respective hometown teams to walk away with a win from Saturday night’s Iron Bowl at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
If Auburn wins, Maddox will make a $100 donation to the Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama. But if Alabama wins again, Anders will donate $100 to the Tuscaloosa Pre-K Initiative.
The tradition dates back to 2005 when former Auburn Mayor Bill Ham and Maddox first made a friendly wager in support of local causes in both communities.
“Regardless of which team wins, I consider this a win-win for both Mayor Anders and I. Both the Tuscaloosa Pre-K Initiative and the Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama are very important to our communities and I’m grateful to continue this wager. Best of luck to Mayor Anders, and Roll Tide!”
Walt Maddox, Tuscaloosa mayor
Maddox has won the wager 13 times while Auburn’s mayors have made Maddox pay up on seven occasions. The Crimson Tide has won five consecutive Iron Bowls, the longest streak since the wager originated.
“I’m excited to continue this spirited rivalry that shines a spotlight or organizations that are truly making a difference in both of our communities. I wish Mayor Maddox luck, and as always, War Eagle!”
Ron Anders, Auburn mayor
Of course, that’s not the only thing on the line for this week’s game.
An Auburn win means it would be going to a bowl game under interim coach DJ Durkin, as the team searches for its first winning season since 2020.
For the Crimson Tide, a berth in the SEC Championship Game is on the line as well as keeping the team’s College Football Playoff hopes alive.
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