Auburn survived one of Week one’s most competitive SEC games, edging Baylor 17-16.
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The Tigers didn’t produce the offensive fireworks some expected, but they demonstrated something valuable: the ability to win a close game.
Southern Miss now visits Jordan-Hare Stadium, giving Auburn an opportunity to clean up the problems that appeared against Baylor.
Quarterback Byrum Brown remains central to Auburn’s offense. His mobility creates an additional gap for defenses to account for, but Auburn needs greater consistency sustaining drives. Southern Miss should see a heavy dose of the running game as the Tigers try to establish physical control.
Defensively, Auburn should have a clear advantage. The Tigers need to prevent Southern Miss from creating explosive plays and force the Golden Eagles to string together long drives. That also gives Auburn’s pass rush opportunities on third-and-long.
This game comes at a useful time. After an emotionally draining one-point opener, Auburn can focus on execution without immediately facing another high-level opponent. But the Tigers cannot sleepwalk through the first half. Southern Miss has enough talent to make things uncomfortable if Auburn turns the football over or repeatedly fails on third down.
I’d expect Hugh Freeze’s staff to emphasize offensive rhythm. Auburn doesn’t need to throw deep on every series. Sustained drives, efficient rushing and manageable third downs would be more encouraging than another collection of spectacular but inconsistent plays.
Jordan-Hare should provide another significant advantage. If Auburn gets ahead by two touchdowns, Southern Miss will be forced away from its preferred offensive approach.
Auburn wasn’t dominant against Baylor, but it was resilient. This week should be considerably easier.
Prediction: Auburn 38, Southern Miss 13
