As the Tigers get set to host the Jaguars for the first time in program history, here's what our staff thinks about the matchup between No. 24 Auburn and South Alabama, complete with score predictions and analysis.
Jackie Dominguez, Sports Editor: 41-14 Auburn
"Auburn will look to pad its record before entering a tough stretch of the season next week, so the Tigers should come out with energy and motivation. The defense hopes to have another lockdown game and be a smothering presence at the line of scrimmage. However, with limited experience and depth in the secondary, South Alabama could find success through the air. Quarterback Jackson Arnold will continue to connect with receivers as the offense prepares to take on more difficult defenses with SEC opponents. I also think that Jeremiah Cobb will hopefully snag himself another 100-rushing-yard game with Damari Alston being a game-time decision as he recovers from injury."
Reid Farris, Assistant Sports Editor: Auburn 42-7
"Auburn enters their homecoming game this year still undefeated looking to take down South Alabama before beginning conference play. I believe Auburn will control the trenches on both sides of the ball but especially on the defensive side.
I think we can expect to see a Auburn to get some big turnovers forced on the defensive side with South Alabama being fumble prone through their first two games. Depending on what the Jaguars give the Tigers defensively I expect quarterback Jackson Arnold and the Auburn receiving core to get a few of those explosive plays that fans have been waiting for."
Rory Garvin, Sports Reporter: 45-10 Auburn
"Auburn enters Homecoming weekend ranked for the first time since 2021. The No. 24 Tigers are looking for their 33rd straight Homecoming win, and that shouldn’t be a problem. Auburn’s defense, which held Ball State to -3 rushing yards last week, will look to shut down the Jaguars with ease. Quarterback Jackson Arnold and the offense are expected to establish the passing game against the Sun Belt Conference foe, especially with two SEC road games coming up. Arnold and company should have a big day through the air."
Gunner Norene, Sports Writer: 38-13 Auburn
"I think Auburn’s offense may struggle early with the morning kickoff, but Jackson Arnold and company will eventually find a rhythm. South Alabama has a few talented pieces on offense, but the Tigers’ defense has proved dominant through the first two weeks of the season. Although it’s down two running backs due to injury, Auburn should take care of business Saturday and move to 3-0 ahead of next weekend’s SEC opener at Oklahoma."
Jonathan Wallin, Sports Writer: 38-17 Auburn
"In Auburn’s final game before SEC play, the Tigers are expected to address any offensive weaknesses that have shown through the first two weeks. Auburn should continue its pass-heavy approach from last week’s matchup against Ball State, likely giving quarterback Jackson Arnold as many drop-back plays as possible to build comfort in the pocket before the heart of the schedule. South Alabama’s offense should be more formidable than Ball State’s, but Auburn is still favored to win comfortably by at least three scores. Running back Jeremiah Cobb is likely to continue his strong play from the past two weeks, especially with Damari Alston still questionable. South Alabama is expected to put more pressure on Arnold than he saw last week, but the key for Auburn will be how he responds to that pressure in the pocket."
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