ESPN’s Paul Finebaum Cautions Auburn Tigers Ahead of Season Opener
A strong start is essential for the Auburn Tigers in 2025, and their first challenge comes from a tough Baylor Bears team.
While Auburn fans hopeful for the upcoming season may view their opener at Baylor as a win, the Bears, coming off an 8-5 record, shouldn’t be underestimated—especially with the game taking place in the sweltering heat of Waco, Texas, even at night. The Tigers will need to get off to a fast start, and Baylor will provide a tough test.
ESPN’s Paul Finebaum, speaking on McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning, warned that Auburn’s first game could turn out to be one of its toughest.
“Yes, it’s the first game. It’s the Friday night game at Baylor,” Finebaum remarked. “A lot of people don’t take Baylor seriously, but you’ve been there. You know how intense that stadium can get, particularly for a Friday night season opener with a big SEC school coming in.”
With much attention on building the confidence of former Oklahoma quarterback Jackson Arnold, Auburn’s fast start in 2025 is even more crucial.
“The reason this game matters so much is that if Auburn loses, it’s one they were expected to win. That sets them behind the eight ball, and suddenly every subsequent game becomes even more high-stakes,” Finebaum explained. “Because of that, this is the most important game on their schedule.”
While other games, especially the end-of-year matchup against Alabama, will hold significance, Finebaum emphasized that Auburn’s opener will set the tone for the season.
“Coaches always say the next game is the most important, and for Auburn, this is definitely the case. I think Auburn will win in Waco, but if they don’t, it could derail the season pretty quickly.”
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