Auburn is set to face Alabama this weekend at Neville Arena. Here's what our staff expects of the upcoming matchup:
Rory Garvin, Sports Reporter: 83-78 Auburn
"Auburn and Alabama are set to clash on Saturday, which marks the first unranked matchup between the two rivals since 2021. Auburn students have already been camping outside Neville Arena for over 24 hours, and I believe Auburn's home court advantage will power the Tigers over the finish line. Look for Auburn guard Kevin Overton to have a big bounce-back performance after only recording seven points on 20% shooting from the field last game."
Braden Hensley, Sports Writer: 97-92 Auburn
"Both of these teams have been offensive juggernauts this season, and with both teams now unranked and nearly identical records, I'm giving the edge to Auburn. These teams both beat each other on the road last season in thrillers, and both teams have played very competitively thus far this season. Auburn has won four of its last five and has gotten the chance to rest up after its defeat against Tennessee last week. Alabama has won three of its last five, most recently claiming a close victory against Texas A&M after putting up 100 while also letting up 100 against Florida in a loss on February 1st. Both teams have been inconsistent, but I believe Auburn has been showing enough improvement to be able to win in their biggest rivalry in front of their home crowd."
Gunner Norene, Sports Writer: Auburn 85-79
"This is a massive game for both squads, as both Auburn and Alabama sit at 5-4 in the SEC and, of course, it's the Iron Bowl of Basketball. Saturday will mark the first time the two teams have met in which the Tigers and Crimson Tide are both unranked since 2021, but I expect it to be just as intense as previous years.
Auburn's keys to victory are simple, but they could certainly be difficult to execute against a dangerous Alabama team. If the Tigers keep the Tide off the three-point line, control the glass, and attack the rim on the offensive end, I think Auburn could earn itself its second win in the last three meetings with Alabama. However, if this contest turns into a fast-paced, three-point shootout, it could spell bad news for the Tigers.
I believe Auburn finds a way to get it done, even if Alabama center Charles Bediako is eligible to play -- at this point, it's looking likely that he will suit up on Saturday."
Jonathan Wallin, Sports Writer: 94-82 Auburn
"I’m expecting a high-scoring battle with free throws being the deciding factor. I think Auburn is going to be able to get to the line against Alabama with ease. Bama’s defense has also shown many signs of weakness that I think Auburn can use to their advantage. Keyshawn Hall and Labaron Philon are going to be in a back-and-forth scoring battle all night, but I see Hall coming out on top."
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