Special Feature
Jeremiah Castille is the chaplain of the University of Alabama football team and was an NFL cornerback for six seasons. Castille played for Coach Bear Bryant at the University of Alabama in four Iron Bowls—1979 through 1982—with three wins and one loss. In an interview in October 2022, Jeremiah made these comments about the nature of this famous game.
How important was the Iron Bowl to the players? Why? The in-state nature of this game provides “bragging rights.” So naturally, there was an intensity and desire to win that is unique to the Iron Bowl. Yet, there was tremendous emphasis from coaches on both sides to “win with class” even in this game. In fact, in particular with this game.
Did you know the players on the other side? How did you meet? The high school players that I competed with and against were split in loyalties between Alabama and Auburn. This increased the rivalry once we played against each other at college. We had grown up playing with the players on the other side! They were not strangers. These longstanding friendships made the game more intense.
What was the attitude of the opposing coaches toward each other? What did they teach you about your attitude toward the game and opposing team? The coaches knew each other well and respected each other and had the same philosophy on character. We learned under Bryant to have respect for the opponent. We didn’t bad mouth. There was no trash talk. Instead, we practiced harder.
The fans can be hostile to each other, but how was the attitude of the opposing teams toward each other? The attitude of opposing players toward each other was, “I want to beat you.” It was simple competition. The players do not make it derogatory because players compete. However, the fans can make it personal and derogatory. If fans had ever competed on the field maybe they’d have more respect for the other side from the stands.
Do you have any advice for Iron Bowl fans?
- Have a respectful attitude toward the opponent. They are people too. They have a life.
- Treat people the way you want to be treated. Practice the Golden Rule.
- Remember, at the end of the day, it is “just a game.”
- Treat opposing fans well. Fans represent the team too.
- Have the attitude “I’m going to enjoy this game, win or lose.” Losing is not the end of life.
-Bill Norton, Interviewer
Norton is author of Sojourn on the Veld
