A New Chapter for Auburn and Baylor
The excitement is building as Auburn prepares to host Baylor in what will be the second straight year that the two programs meet in a season opener. Last season the Tigers rode a 38‑21 victory that helped launch a promising campaign, but the momentum was short‑lived when head coach Hugh Freeze was relieved of his duties after a disappointing finish.
Baylor, meanwhile, enters the matchup after a 5‑7 record in 2025 that left head coach Dave Aranda on the hot seat. Despite the losing ledger, the Bears’ aerial attack proved to be one of the most potent in the nation, ranking fourth overall in FBS and topping the Big 12 in passing yards and touchdowns.
Quarterback DJ Lagway emerged as a central figure for the Bears, throwing for 2,264 yards and 16 scores while also tossing 14 interceptions. His chemistry with wideout Gavin Freeman, who posted 53 catches for 481 yards and four touchdowns, should give the offense a boost, while safety Jacob Redding contributed 53 tackles, three interceptions and two pass breakups on the defensive side of the ball.
Auburn’s new head coach, Alex Golesh, has been busy in preseason drills, experimenting with schemes that could capitalize on the Tigers’ revamped roster. Early predictions place the game at a high‑scoring 42‑31 in favor of Auburn, but analysts caution that Baylor’s explosive passing attack could keep the contest much closer.
The upcoming clash will also be a test of how quickly the new coaching staff can instill a winning culture. With both programs looking to rebound from last season’s setbacks, the game promises to be a showcase of talent, strategy and the renewed rivalry that has seen the series tied at 2‑2‑1 over the years.