The Tigers continue battling Mississippi opponents Saturday with their second matchup of the season against Mississippi State.
Auburn scored a season-high 88 points against the Bulldogs in their last meeting, but finished three points short of the win.
It was also the most points scored in a half by Auburn in SEC play this season at 44, but uncharacteristic defense helped the Bulldogs pull away in the second half for the win.
Mississippi State is ranked third in the SEC and No. 18 in the country, averaging 73.7 points per game with forward Arnett Moultrie leading the team in scoring.
"To come into this environment against a very good defensive team and put up 88 points is pretty good," said Auburn coach Tony Barbee after the Feb. 4 loss.
"Hopefully, we can keep that offensive momentum going."
Barbee also said defense will have to improve for the Tigers to remain competitive.
"Obviously, you can't give up 91 and win the game," Barbee said. "We have been better than this defensively all year long. Just as our offense comes, we lose what has made us all season long, and that has been our defense. That is disappointing."
Barbee's wishes were short-lived after an 18-point loss to Alabama the following game.
"We got off to a great start, and we had a lot of momentum on our side," Barbee said after the game. "Then it came to a stop. It came down to toughness, and that is why we lost our momentum."
Despite losing three games in a row, including a close loss against Ole Miss Saturday night, the Tigers remain optimistic.
After defeating Georgia earlier this season running a zone defense, the Tigers could look to continue the trend against Mississippi State.
The physical style of defense forced Georgia to attempt numerous perimeter shots.
After the Alabama defeat, Barbee admitted that he backed off emphasizing toughness in practice, but would not change his approach to include more physicality.
Saturday's game will feature The Beale Street Flippers at halftime and a rally towel giveaway to the first 1,500 fans.
Tip-off is at 7 p.m. at the Auburn Arena.
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