Auburn is set to clash with Baylor in a pivotal initial week contest at McLane Stadium in Waco, Texas. After four consecutive losing seasons, the Tigers aim to regain their winning form, having gone to bowl games yearly since 2013 before this downturn.

Despite last season’s troublesome moments, Baylor’s Coach Dave Aranda ended on a good note with a six-game winning streak in the Big 12, placing them one game shy of first place. The Bears are optimistic as they gear up to face both Auburn and SMU, anticipating tough nonconference challenges.

Historically, the Tigers and Bears have faced each other only four times, with Baylor leading the series at 2-1-1, the last encounter being a narrow 15-14 win for them in 1976. Going into this game, the stakes will undeniably be higher than ever.

Key Information

Major Consequences: Both teams need a victory to kick off their respective seasons positively, with Auburn striving to reverse its fortunes while Baylor seeks to reestablish its reputation nationally.

Rookie vs. Veteran: Baylor’s quarterback Sawyer Robertson, a breakout star from 2024, returns as the top quarterback by QBR after throwing for over 3,000 yards and 28 touchdowns. Conversely, Jackson Arnold arrives at Auburn with inconsistent prior performance.

Strengths and Weaknesses: Auburn boasts an elite receiving corps, regarded as one of the nation’s top three, against a Baylor secondary that struggled last season. With projected starter Carl Williams possibly out, Baylor could face challenges with less experienced players in key defensive roles.

Viewing Information

Date: Friday, Aug. 29 | Time: 8 p.m. ET | Location: McLane Stadium, Waco, Texas | TV: Channel | Live Stream: Fubo

Prediction

The outcome holds significant implications for both teams as Hugh Freeze looks to secure his position while Dave Aranda works on elevating Baylor’s profile. I predict Auburn will manage several explosive plays against Baylor’s struggling defense, whereas the Bears, led by a standout performance from Bryson Washington, will outlast Auburn as home underdogs. Pick: Baylor +2.5