Alabama and Auburn are getting set to square off in yet another intense Iron Bowl.

Alabama has won five of the last six meetings in the rivalry, but this season’s game is shaping up to be an especially close battle. Both teams were ranked in the top six of the College Football Playoff Top 25 entering Saturday’s action and should stay there after recording wins.

Nick Saban and Gus Malzahn were asked about the rivalry series on Saturday, and both coaches understand how much the game means to each fan base. Not only will the game decide bragging rights, but it will also determine winner of the SEC West this season. The winner will also find themselves on the brink of a Playoff appearance.

Malzahn’s Tigers knocked off Louisiana Monroe, and here is what he had to say about the looming rivalry with the Tide:

“They’re undefeated and they’re number one in the country,” said Malzahn. “That’s probably the best way I can answer that right now. I’ll be better to answer that on Tuesday after watching a little bit more film.”

On how the Iron Bowl will decide the winner of the SEC West:
“I want them to enjoy this and relax their bodies and minds tonight, and then be ready to go,” Malzahn explained. “I know they will be ready. They’ve worked extremely hard getting to this point. That was their goal to begin with. We made that clear, so we’ll be ready to go.”

Saban simply addressed the rivalry and labeled it the best he has ever been involved with:

“Best rivalry I’ve ever been involved with,” said Saban.

That is certainly high praise as he has been involved with many different rivalries throughout the years during stints with Michigan State, LSU, and Alabama.

Kickoff for this year’s Iron Bowl is set for next Saturday at 3:30 pm EST on CBS.