Auburn Win Total Prediction
Despite struggling in the SEC in 2018, the Auburn Tigers still found a way to get eight wins. Will the Tigers be more of a threat in the SEC in the 2019 season?
Odds
Gus Malzahn is entering seventh season as head coach of the Tigers. He has led Auburn to a winning record in all six years thus far with five seasons of 8 wins or more. Last year, the Tigers were 8-5 overall with a 3-5 record in the SEC. According to oddsmakers, the Tigers are listed with an over/under of 8 wins for the 2019 regular season. The over is listed with +125 odds, while the under is set at -145.
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Offense
Auburn is usually known for a strong offense, but the Tigers averaged just 30.9 points and 389.9 yards per game in 2018. This season, Auburn brings back six starters, including the entire starting offensive line. The big question will be at the skill positions. At QB, Jarrett Stidham is gone after throwing for 2,421 yards and Malzahn hasn’t decided on his replacement yet. Leading rusher JaTarvious Whitlow had 777 yards a year ago and is back to help the offense, but they will need more out of the run game this year.
Defense
Auburn had a defense that was up to par last year, allowing just 19.2 points and 356 yards per game. However, the Auburn offense just couldn’t match what the defense was doing. The Tigers have seven starters back this year. Nick Coe led the team in sacks with seven in 2018 and he is back to lead the unit. Defensive back Daniel Thomas also returns after racking up 64 tackles and two interceptions in the secondary. Auburn actually returns all of its starting secondary.
Schedule
Auburn gets the season started by hosting Oregon on Aug. 31 while also hosting Tulane, Kent State and Samford in non-conference play. The Tigers will host Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Georgia and Alabama in SEC play. Auburn will travel to Texas A&M, Florida, Arkansas and LSU.
Prediction
Auburn had two losses by a touchdown or less, so its poor SEC record was close to being very different. The Tigers also had to go on the road for their toughest conference games a year ago. This season, Auburn gets its toughest games at home, which could help make the difference. The Tigers should be improved on offense. Last year looks like an anomaly as long as Auburn finds its QB. The Tigers are a nice dark horse to come out of the SEC and make the playoffs this year.
College Football Prediction: Auburn Over 8 Wins +125