Finnish tackle Olaus Alinen set for Iron Bowl debut as Alabama faces Auburn

AFI | American Football | 11/28/2025

Photo: University of Alabama

As the University of Alabama prepares to face archrival Auburn in Saturday’s Iron Bowl, Finnish offensive lineman Olaus Alinen readies for one of the biggest games of his young career. The Crimson Tide enter the matchup ranked #10 nationally with a 9–2 record, controlling their own destiny for a potential College Football Playoff berth.

From rocky start to playoff push

Alabama’s season opened with a surprising 31–17 loss to Florida State, snapping a 20+ year win streak in season openers. But under first-year Head Coach Kalen DeBoer, the team responded strongly, reeling off wins against SEC foes like Georgia, Tennessee, and LSU. Their only other loss came in a tight 23–21 battle against Oklahoma.

Now, at 9–2 (6–1 SEC), the Tide remain in the hunt for both the SEC championship and a playoff spot. A win over Auburn would all but secure a 10-win season and keep their postseason hopes alive.

Alinen’s role on and off the field

The 6’6” tackle from Finland has appeared in all 11 games this season, seeing time at both left tackle and on special teams. Though still developing within a deep offensive line rotation, Alinen earned extended playing time during Alabama’s 56–0 rout of Eastern Illinois, logging 18 snaps at left tackle.

Just as impressive has been his work in the classroom. Alinen has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA while double-majoring in finance and economics. He’s on track to earn his bachelor’s degree a year early and has already been named to the SEC First-Year Academic Honor Roll.

What’s at stake

A win Saturday would not only keep Alabama in the playoff conversation—it would also mark a successful close to the regular season for DeBoer’s retooled squad. For Alinen, it’s a chance to contribute in one of college football’s most intense rivalries while continuing to grow within one of the nation’s top programs.

Source: American Football Finland