Against Ole Miss, the Auburn Tigers aim to continue their undefeated season.

As the 2025 college football season continues to unfold, one team that has emerged as a force to be reckoned with is the Auburn Tigers. Under the leadership of head coach Hugh Freeze, Auburn has surprised many by running through the early part of their schedule undefeated. Now, as they head into a crucial matchup with the Ole Miss Rebels, the Tigers are looking to extend their perfect record and prove that their early-season success is no fluke. This game, set in the heart of SEC play, holds significant implications not only for the Tigers’ standing in the conference but also for their aspirations of making a serious run at the college football playoff.

For Auburn, the matchup with Ole Miss presents a true test of both their offensive and defensive capabilities. The Rebels, under head coach Lane Kiffin, are known for their high-powered offense and ability to score points in bunches. Auburn’s defense will need to rise to the occasion, while the Tigers’ offense must continue to capitalize on its own strengths to outlast one of the SEC’s most explosive teams.

In this article, we will delve into what makes this matchup between Auburn and Ole Miss so pivotal, examine Auburn’s undefeated start to the season, and explore what the Tigers need to do to maintain their perfect record as they face off against a talented Ole Miss team.

1. Auburn’s Undefeated Start to the 2025 Season

The 2025 season has been nothing short of spectacular for Auburn. The Tigers entered the year with a solid recruiting class, some new faces on both sides of the ball, and a coaching staff eager to prove that they could compete with the best in the SEC. Under Hugh Freeze, Auburn has made significant strides, particularly on offense. Known for his high-octane offenses at previous stops, Freeze has brought an aggressive, fast-paced approach to the Tigers’ attack.

The offense, led by quarterback Payton Thorne, has been firing on all cylinders. Thorne, a transfer from Michigan State, has proven to be a perfect fit for Freeze’s system. His ability to make quick reads, deliver accurate throws, and keep defenses on their toes has been critical in Auburn’s success. His playmaking ability has been complemented by a solid offensive line and dynamic playmakers at wide receiver and running back.

Perhaps most notably, Auburn has demonstrated its ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Whether it’s come-from-behind victories, dominating second-half performances, or controlling the tempo of the game, the Tigers have shown resilience and poise that many did not expect from them this early in the Freeze era. Their defense, led by coordinator Ron Roberts, has also played an integral role in their undefeated start. The Tigers have been effective in limiting big plays and stopping the run, a key to success in the SEC.

The defense has been balanced, with a strong front seven and an experienced secondary that has not been afraid to challenge opposing quarterbacks. Auburn’s ability to put pressure on the quarterback while also limiting yardage through the air has allowed them to stay competitive in every game, no matter the opponent.

Now, with an undefeated record intact and a schedule that only gets tougher from here, Auburn will need to prove that they can continue their dominance against one of the most potent offenses in the SEC: Ole Miss.

2. Ole Miss and Their Explosive Offense

The Ole Miss Rebels, led by head coach Lane Kiffin, have built a reputation as one of the most explosive and unpredictable offenses in college football. Known for his innovative offensive schemes, Kiffin has consistently created high-scoring teams that can score in a hurry and keep opposing defenses guessing.

In 2025, Ole Miss continues to roll with a dynamic offense led by quarterback Jaxson Dart. Dart, a dual-threat quarterback, has taken his game to the next level this season, showing improved decision-making and an ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground. His ability to throw the ball accurately and with velocity, while also utilizing his legs to extend plays, makes him a nightmare for defensive coordinators.

Dart’s supporting cast is equally dangerous. Zach Evans, a standout running back, provides the Rebels with a workhorse back who can gain chunk yardage on the ground while also contributing in the passing game. The wide receiver corps, including Trigg and Mingo, is deep and talented, offering Dart multiple targets who can break open a game with one explosive play. Ole Miss’s offense is one of the best in the country at scoring quickly and efficiently, putting pressure on opposing defenses from the first whistle.

However, Ole Miss’s offensive success isn’t just about putting up points; it’s about tempo. Kiffin’s scheme often features a hurry-up attack, designed to wear out opposing defenses and force them into mistakes. The Rebels’ ability to operate at a fast pace forces teams to remain disciplined and prevents them from making adjustments on the fly. For a team like Auburn, which relies heavily on controlling the tempo and keeping opposing offenses off the field, Ole Miss’s speed could be a serious challenge.

While the Ole Miss offense is a proven force, there are some areas of concern. The Rebels’ defense has often been considered a weak link, allowing big plays and struggling to stop the run at times. If Auburn can effectively move the ball on the ground and eat up clock, they could limit Ole Miss’s offensive opportunities, forcing them to play catch-up.

3. What Auburn Must Do to Stay Undefeated

For Auburn to continue their undefeated season against Ole Miss, they will need to focus on several key areas of the game. The Rebels’ offense presents unique challenges, but the Tigers have the talent and depth to rise to the occasion.

Control the Tempo

Auburn’s best chance to succeed against Ole Miss is to control the tempo of the game. Freeze’s offense has been built on an up-tempo, fast-paced style, but Auburn’s offense has the tools to slow things down and keep Ole Miss from operating at their desired speed. If Auburn can establish the run with Jarquez Hunter and Damari Alston, they can force the Rebels to adjust defensively, allowing Thorne and the passing attack to operate efficiently.

By controlling the clock and staying ahead of the chains, Auburn can take the crowd out of the game and prevent Ole Miss from scoring in bunches. Keeping Dart and the Rebels’ offense on the sideline will be crucial in keeping their high-powered attack from gaining momentum.

Pressure Jaxson Dart

Ole Miss’s offense revolves around the abilities of quarterback Jaxson Dart. He is the catalyst for everything the Rebels do offensively, and Auburn’s defense must make him uncomfortable. Whether it’s through a strong pass rush or strategic blitzing, the Tigers need to disrupt Dart’s rhythm and force him into bad decisions. Auburn’s defensive front, led by Marcus Harris and Jayson Jones, has been effective at putting pressure on quarterbacks this season, and they will need to bring their A-game to contain Dart.

In addition to pressuring Dart, Auburn must contain his running ability. Dart’s legs are just as dangerous as his arm, and the Tigers’ defense will need to keep him in the pocket and limit his ability to extend plays.

Win the Turnover Battle

One of the most crucial aspects of any football game is winning the turnover battle. Ole Miss has been prone to mistakes at times this season, and Auburn must capitalize on any opportunity to create turnovers. Whether it’s forcing Dart into a bad throw or creating a fumble, Auburn’s defense must be opportunistic and take advantage of any mistakes.

The Tigers’ offense, led by Thorne, must also protect the ball. They cannot afford turnovers against an explosive Ole Miss offense, as it would give the Rebels easy scoring opportunities. If Auburn can take care of the football and win the turnover battle, they will be in an excellent position to secure the victory.

Maximize Offensive Balance

Auburn’s offense has been most effective when it is balanced, mixing the run and pass to keep opposing defenses guessing. If the Tigers are too one-dimensional, Ole Miss’s defense could hone in on a single facet of the offense, making it easier for them to stop. However, if Auburn can strike a balance between Thorne’s passing attack and a strong running game, they will keep Ole Miss on their heels.

Using Hunter and Alston as primary weapons in the run game, while also involving wide receivers like Jay Fair and Omari Kelly in the passing game, will help create a diversified offensive attack that can threaten Ole Miss in multiple ways. If Auburn can sustain drives, it will also wear down the Ole Miss defense and provide opportunities for big plays as the game goes on.

4. The Bigger Picture: SEC Implications and Playoff Hopes

This game against Ole Miss holds far more than just conference pride—it’s a critical opportunity for Auburn to solidify its place as one of the top teams in the SEC. With their undefeated record intact, the Tigers are eyeing a potential SEC Championship appearance and a spot in the College Football Playoff. However, a loss to Ole Miss would jeopardize those aspirations and force Auburn to regroup for the remainder of the season.

For the Rebels, this game is equally important as they seek to position themselves as a playoff contender in a loaded SEC West. A win over Auburn would provide Ole Miss with the kind of signature victory that could propel them into the national conversation.