This upcoming Auburn football season will be one filled with anniversaries. The program announced Wednesday, July 31, that it would honor four special teams from the Tigers' history during 2013's non-conference games.
When the season kicks off against Washington State on Aug. 31, Auburn will honor the program's first perfect season in the modern era. Under first-year head coach Terry Bowden and the cloud of NCAA probation--which included television and postseason bans--the 1993 Tigers went 11-0 and were named unofficial national champions by several polls and publications.
On the following Saturday, Sept. 7, the 1988 team will be honored during the Arkansas State game. These Pat Dye-coached Tigers were named co-champions of the SEC and finished their season with a trip to face Florida State in the Sugar Bowl. Auburn finished with ten wins that season and only lost two games by a combined seven points.
When the 2013 Tigers return to non-conference action on Oct. 12 versus Western Carolina, they will honor the Golden Anniversary of the 1963 Tigers' top-five finish in the final polls. Led by Ralph "Shug" Jordan, this Auburn team defeated two top ten teams, rivals Georgia Tech and Alabama, before facing powerful Nebraska in the Orange Bowl.
The Tigers' non-conference slate will end on Oct. 26 against Florida Atlantic, and the program will honor the 1983 team that won Auburn's first SEC championship since the 1957 national title season. With a squad boasting stars like Bo Jackson, Lionel James and Randy Campbell, Auburn ripped through the toughest schedule in the country with an 11-1 record and received first-place votes in the final Associated Press poll.
Auburn athletics confirmed on Wednesday that the teams will be recognized on the field during each game. Fans will also get to meet members of these historic Auburn squads before kickoff at the Verizon Wireless Autograph Tent, which will be located at Plainsman Park.
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