Auburn’s 2026 football schedule begins with a high‑profile matchup that has been eagerly anticipated since the series was first announced in 2018. The Tigers will travel to Atlanta’s Mercedes‑Benz Stadium to face the Baylor Bears on Saturday, September 5, at 2:30 p.m. Central Time.
Kickoff and Broadcast Details
The game is slated to air on ABC, marking one of four contests the network will showcase during the opening weekend of college football. This arrangement underscores the significance of the series, which was originally scheduled for home-and-home contests but has been adjusted to include a neutral‑site finale.
Auburn’s previous encounter with Baylor took place in Waco a year earlier, where the Tigers secured a 38‑24 victory despite being outgained in total yards. That win set the stage for the renewed rivalry and added a layer of personal stakes for several players.
A Reunion for Bryson Washington
Among those players is running back Bryson Washington, who spent the last three seasons with Baylor before entering the transfer portal and joining Auburn’s roster last offseason. Washington’s career at Baylor included 1,861 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, achievements that have generated considerable buzz among fans and analysts alike.
Washington’s participation adds a narrative dimension to the upcoming game, as he will be facing his former team on the field. The matchup promises to be more than just a season opener; it is a personal milestone for a player eager to make an impact in his new environment.
The Broader Opening Weekend Landscape
The September 5 contest is part of a larger slate of games that will dominate ABC’s schedule. Alongside Auburn versus Baylor, viewers can expect to see Alabama take on East Carolina, Clemson versus LSU, and Ole Miss against Louisville, each scheduled at distinct times across Saturday and Sunday. This lineup reflects the network’s strategy to spread high‑profile matchups throughout the opening weekend.
As the Tigers prepare to step onto the field in Atlanta, the excitement extends beyond the stadium lights. The game represents a pivotal moment for Auburn’s program, offering a fresh start under new leadership and a chance to test the chemistry of a roster that blends returning veterans with newly acquired talent. The outcome will likely set the tone for the team’s aspirations throughout the 2026 season.