This might come as a surprise given how many people are already so high on this team because of first year head coach, Hugh Freeze. It’s not that I don't buy all the hype, it’s just that this team is going to be an average team in the SEC this year.
Hugh Freeze did get his fair share of talent in the transfer portal, but the combination of new coach, new system, and new players will not mix well with established teams like Georgia, Alabama, LSU, and Ole Miss. Their non-conference schedule is favorable and they will pick up 3 or 4 games in the SEC this year which will get them to a bowl, but it won’t be anything special for the Tigers…this year.
The offense: Auburn was a very hard offense to watch last year, and you could argue that it is because of the top tier defense’s they play in the SEC. However, they play those teams every year and if they want to compete they simply have to be better. 23.2 Points/Game, 1.8 Turnovers/Game, and #118 in the nation in Pass Yards/Game. The one bright spot for the offense last year was the run game. They will lose lead rusher, Tank Bigsby, but still have Jarquez Hunter and (QB) Robby Ashford who combined for over 1,300 yards on the ground last year. QB controversy may get in the way of those numbers on the ground because Michigan State transfer, Payton Thorne, has turned some heads in spring ball. Thorne may have a better arm, but Ashford’s legs help out the ground attack tremendously, which also opens up the field to throw to some stud receivers that were brought in from the transfer portal. Coach Freeze has some tough decisions to make before the season begins.
How Many Games Will Auburn Win In 2023?
7 or more
6 or less
The Defense: Atrocious in 2022, but bringing back a lot of experience and a new Defensive Coordinator, Ron Roberts, will certainly help. The Tigers also welcome a handful of transfers from Power 5 schools that will help them get where they need to be.
Prediction: A lot of questions for this team and a lot of new faces. It could go well for them, but it won't be perfect. I see this team going 7-5 and improving throughout the year as Coach Freeze and his squad get acclimated
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