Missouri football’s post-spring preview asks: Will Auburn be a top-25 road game for the Tigers, testing MU’s progress and competitiveness this season?

As Missouri Tigers wrap up their spring practices and look ahead to the upcoming football season, one question stands out for fans and analysts alike: Will Auburn represent a top-25 road game for Missouri? This matchup looms large on the schedule and could be a critical litmus test for the Tigers’ progress under head coach Eli Drinkwitz. The answer depends on several factors, including Missouri’s development, Auburn’s trajectory, and the stakes for both teams in a highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC).

Setting the Stage: Missouri’s Current Status Post-Spring

Missouri football has been on an upward trajectory in recent years. Since Eli Drinkwitz took over as head coach in 2020, the Tigers have steadily improved their recruiting, player development, and overall program culture. The 2024 spring practice sessions showcased a team eager to build on past successes and correct lingering issues.

Key takeaways from spring include promising performances from emerging players, deeper roster depth, and an overall sense of optimism. However, questions remain about consistency, depth in key positions, and whether Missouri can compete with the SEC’s elite programs on the road.

Auburn Tigers: The Challenge Ahead

Auburn, a storied SEC program with a passionate fanbase, is no stranger to high-stakes football. Coming off their own period of transition, Auburn aims to re-establish itself as a national contender. The Tigers are known for their physical style of play, strong defense, and explosive offense.

Playing at Auburn’s Jordan-Hare Stadium is notoriously difficult due to the electric atmosphere and passionate crowd. For Missouri, a road game in Auburn represents not just a test of talent, but of mental toughness and preparation.

What Would Make Auburn a Top-25 Road Game?

For Auburn to be considered a top-25 road game for Missouri, several conditions typically need to be met:

• Both Teams Ranked: Ideally, both Auburn and Missouri would be ranked in the AP Top 25 or College Football Playoff rankings, signaling a high level of quality and national attention.
• Competitive Matchup: The game would be expected to be closely contested, with playoff or major bowl implications on the line.
• High Stakes Atmosphere: The environment at Auburn’s stadium would add to the challenge, making a win highly prestigious.

Currently, Auburn is projected by many analysts to contend for a top-25 ranking, while Missouri’s status hinges on continued growth and a strong start to the season.

Missouri’s Strengths Heading Into Auburn

The Tigers bring several strengths that could help them contend on the road:

• Improved Offense: Missouri’s offense has shown signs of growth with a dynamic quarterback and a versatile receiving corps. The ability to stretch the field and control possession will be critical.
• Physical Defense: Missouri’s defense, particularly the front seven, has the potential to disrupt Auburn’s offensive rhythm. Tackling fundamentals and pass rush will be keys to success.
• Coaching Stability: Eli Drinkwitz’s leadership and familiarity with the SEC environment provide Missouri with a strategic advantage in game planning and adjustments.

Potential Challenges for Missouri

Despite these strengths, Missouri faces hurdles that Auburn will exploit if unaddressed:

• Depth Concerns: Injuries and lack of depth in critical positions could strain Missouri late in the game, especially against a physically imposing Auburn team.
• Road Game Pressure: Missouri’s ability to handle the hostile environment and travel fatigue will be tested.
• Turnover Margin: Protecting the football is paramount. Turnovers in a tough road game can swing momentum drastically.

Key Players to Watch for Missouri

Several players will be pivotal in determining Missouri’s success at Auburn:

• Quarterback: The QB’s ability to manage the game, make accurate throws, and avoid turnovers will be vital.
• Linebackers: Their play in run support and pass coverage will help contain Auburn’s offense.
• Wide Receivers and Running Backs: Their explosiveness and ability to create yards after catch or break tackles will fuel Missouri’s offense.

Auburn’s Strengths and Threats

Auburn will rely on:

• Balanced Offense: A mix of power running and quick passing.
• Stout Defense: Aggressive pass rush and solid secondary coverage.
• Special Teams: Impact plays that can shift field position.

Missouri must prepare for these threats and adjust accordingly.

Historical Context and Rivalry Dynamics

While not a traditional rivalry, Missouri vs. Auburn games have gained significance due to SEC realignment and competitive parity. Past matchups provide lessons on what it takes to win at Jordan-Hare and how momentum swings can define the outcome.

What’s at Stake?

For Missouri, a win at Auburn would boost national perception, enhance recruiting, and provide momentum for the rest of the season. For Auburn, protecting home turf against a rising SEC competitor is equally important.

Predictions and Outlook

Given Missouri’s promising spring and Auburn’s steady rebuild, many project a tightly contested game with both teams capable of victory. Whether Auburn will be a top-25 opponent depends on early-season performances and rankings leading up to the game.

Regardless, the matchup promises to be a defining moment for Missouri football—a chance to prove their mettle in a challenging environment and take a significant step forward in the SEC landscape.