7:44 PM
Despite turning in one of its worst offensive performances of the Nick Saban era, Alabama came back to defeat auburn in the fourth overtime period, 24-22.
With 1:35 remaining in the fourth quarter, the team was trailing by 7 points and its playoff hopes were hanging in the balance.
The game was tied at 28 with 24 seconds left when Ja'Corey Brooks caught a 28-yard touchdown.
The first overtime in Iron Bowl history was caused by auburn running out the clock.
Young found John Metchie for a two-point conversion in the fourth overtime.
"I can't say anything," he said in the television interview. "For guys like us, we have to keep fighting, a 90-something-yard drive to tie the game up, and then to win in overtime?" The players, what do I tell you? I am proud of them.
Young was a favorite to win the trophy but struggled for most of the game.
He completed 12 of 26 passes for 138 yards, no touchdown and one interception through the first three quarters. It was the first time he had an error in his last pass attempts.
Young was 12 of 22 passing for 174 yards and two touchdown in the fourth quarter and overtime.
"It was amazing," he said.
Dameion George was replaced by Chris Owens and Darrian Dalcourt was replaced by Seth McLaughlin on the offensive line.
Young was without his top receiver, Jameson Williams, who was ejected from the game in the first half for targeting.
It was the first mistake by Alabama.
Paul Tyson dropped the snap on the field goal. It was the first time in five years that Alabama did not score a point.
Young was sacked early in the fourth quarter when he couldn't corral a low snap.
Alabama committed 11 penalties for 129 yards, including a roughing the passer penalty in the fourth quarter that nullified an intercept. Alabama running back Brian Robinson was held to just 64 yards on 15 carries.
"I was just trying to get our guys to focus on executing and not worry about anything else," said the Alabama coach. I could see it in their eyes, I think our guys were a little out of sync. I wanted them to play. I told them to have fun.
The SEC Championship Game will be played in Atlanta.
