Joseph O. Patton: Please don't read this if you're an Auburn football fan!

  Football rivalries, especially those emanating from the Deep South, tend to get ugly… I’m talkin’ Hatfield and McCoy ugly. The Auburn University versus University of Alabama feud takes the cake when it comes to being the most absurd fan pissing contest though, which is unfortunate and embarrassing for those of us living in this state.

  Despite the history of unbridled nastiness, I was nonetheless taken aback by the sheer number of Auburn fans who dug in their heels counting down to the BCS National Championship Game, abruptly and yet whole-heartedly converting to Texas Longhorns. You’d think they’d like to see their home state team - their greatest rival, fans who are their friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, etc. - bring home the big one. But no… they were flashing their fangs and fervently praying for a Texas victory. Though ironically enough, you’d think if nothing else and for selfish reasons, Auburn would want the badge of honor involved in nearly beating the team who ultimately became tops in the entire country.

  Is it simply bitterness from still being behind in the Iron Bowl series? Is it jealously arising from comparing the number of national championships Alabama has won, total bowl appearances, number of SEC championships versus Auburn’s record in those same areas? Who knows… but such behavior reminds me of a spoiled brat spewing third grade insults on a playground, and everyone knows he’s only doing it due to his own crippling insecurities and self-loathing, so he’s trying to tear down those around him in a pathetic effort to feel better about himself.