Offensively, Alabama's offense is largely predicated on the three-point shot, averaging 10.3 triples per game. Auburn's defense allows just six three-pointers made per game, the best mark in the SEC. The Tigers' defense allows an effective field goal percentage of 45.2 percent, the 10th-best in Division I.

The Crimson Tide and Wildcats were engulfed in a three-team SEC race with Tennessee when Kentucky rolled into Memorial (now Coleman) Coliseum on this late-January Saturday. Alabama big man Ricky Brown fouled out in the final two minutes, and Kentucky cashed in four straight free throws to clinch the victory.

Find out why Sammy P is wagering on Alabama in its SEC battle against Auburn and why he's backing underdog Sparty over the Fighting Illini.

The No. 1 Tigers are led by forward Johni Broome who is a legit candidate to be named the National Player of the Year.

ESPN's "College GameDay" will be around for Alabama vs. Auburn on Saturday. Host and UA alum Rece Davis picked his top three teams to win it all.

One ESPN analyst went against the grain, ranking Duke next to Auburn as the two best teams in college basketball ahead of Alabama.