Alabama football among America’s most-hated teams, but another is No. 1

If you have ever felt like the rest of the country has a target on Alabama football, you might just be right. According to a new methodology from RotoWire, the Crimson Tide ranks as the second-most hated team in the nation, sitting just behind Notre Dame.

The Hierarchy of Hate

Following Alabama on the list are Ohio State and Georgia, while Nebraska and Penn State share the fourth spot. This ranking was compiled by identifying the most-hated program in every state—excluding teams located within that state’s own borders. In other words, you will not find Alabama or Auburn labeled as the top villain inside the state of Alabama.

RotoWire based these findings on four distinct criteria: historic blood feuds, conference rivalries, recent on-field performance from 2016 to 2025, and broad narratives that transcend league play.

Where is the Tide Disliked Most?

Alabama’s footprint of dislike is concentrated and intense, primarily dominated by the rest of the SEC. The states where Alabama draws the most animosity include Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee, Hawaii, and Alaska. While the southern states are a predictable bunch, the inclusion of Alaska and Hawaii is certainly an intriguing outlier.

In contrast, Notre Dame’s reputation as a villain operates on a much broader, nationwide scale. The Irish topped the list in eight states, stretching across a corridor from California to the East Coast, including New York, Massachusetts, and Maine.

Who do Alabamians Hate?

Here at home, Georgia holds the title for the most-hated team. Given the Bulldogs' status as a primary rival for Auburn and their constant battle with Alabama for SEC and national dominance over the last decade, it is no surprise they top the list locally.

For a deeper look at how the rest of the country views college football’s biggest programs, check out the full breakdown from RotoWire right here.