Ahead of Auburn's season opener against Alabama A&M, here's what some of our staff has to say about the start to the Tigers' season, complete with score predictions and analysis.
Patrick Bingham, Sports Editor: Auburn 51-15
"The Tigers are set to start their second season with Hugh Freeze on Saturday in what will likely be a matchup against Alabama A&M that is all but decided well before the clock hits zero in the fourth quarter.
But, there is a lot of new elements Auburn will get to finally see in a live game situation; the new freshman and transfer additions, five coaches in new spots and the helmet communication system. While, I don’t see any of the new elements causing the Tigers to much trouble against the Bulldogs, it will certainly be interesting to see how it all comes together and what Auburn will have to work on heading into a rematch with Cal. "
Grace Heim, Assistant Sports Editor: Auburn 45-3
"Auburn is looking to set the tone for the season after ending last season with three straight losses and should have no problem scoring on Saturday.
The Auburn offense has a great opportunity to put key pieces into place against the Bulldogs before taking on Cal, and I expect quarterback Payton Thorne to quickly connect with his new pieces in the wide receiver space. If the quarterback can throw completions, the Tigers should sail smoothly to a week one win. The Bulldogs struggled with turnovers last season, so look for the Auburn defense to capitalize on forced turnovers. Overall, I expect Auburn to start its five home game stretch with a win.”
Logan Fowler, Sports Reporter: Auburn 48-13
"The last time these two squads met was in 2016 when Auburn ran through the Bulldogs 55-0. I wouldn’t expect anything different this go around.
We’ve heard all offseason about how much more comfortable Hugh Freeze is with his staff, specifically on the offensive side of the ball. Granted it is the first game of the season, but this squad has more talent and depth at every position on the roster than it did a year ago. DJ Durkin seems to be bringing a different level of intensity to that defensive room. Auburn just has too much firepower for Alabama A&M to compete with, and I would expect some fine tune-ups before Cal makes the trek to the Plains for week two. "
Reid Farris, Sports Writer: Auburn 48-7
"Auburn is entering year two under Head Coach Hugh Freeze after going 6-7 last season, and I think the Tigers will make a statement in week one. Auburn opens at home this year against in-state opponent Alabama A&M who is coming off a 5-6 season. The Tigers have won seven straight season openers, and I expect them to make it eight in route to a first game victory.
Auburn will quickly handle the bulldogs as Payton Thorne has had far more time to settle into Hugh Freeze’s offense and has been given many more weapons to work with in the wide receiver room with recent transfers, including Keandre Lambert-Smith and Robert Lewis. The Tigers also have a star-studded incoming freshman class that will debut this Saturday. On the defensive side, Auburn is looking senior heavy, but I expect the most improvement out of sophomore DE Keldric Faulk— who after a solid freshman season will be someone to look for in 2024. Overall, I see this Auburn team getting a solid win with notable improvements on both sides of the ball."
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