The team’s offensive performance was particularly concerning, as highlighted in their opening game against Purdue, where they failed to score any points and lost by 31. Ball State’s defense allowed Purdue to rack up 433 yards, while the Cardinals could only muster 203 yards of their own. They finished the game with 116 rushing yards and a mere 87 passing yards. Quarterback Kiael Kelly was also the leading rusher with 63 yards on 22 carries. Elijah Jackson’s single 37-yard reception was the standout play among the receiving corps, but overall, the team clearly needs to improve its quarterback play moving forward.
Auburn had a tough season last year, finishing with a disappointing 5-7 record under head coach Hugh Freeze in his second year, including a 2-6 mark in the Southeastern Conference. They ended up near the bottom of the standings, only ahead of Kentucky and Mississippi State. After a rough patch with four consecutive losses, the Tigers managed to rally with a 3-1 stretch, securing victories against Kentucky, Louisiana-Monroe, and Texas A&M. However, their season ended on a low note with a loss to Alabama on November 30, eliminating any hopes of a bowl game. In their season opener against Baylor, Auburn showcased their strength, scoring 38 points while allowing 24. Quarterback Jackson Arnold may not have had stellar passing numbers with just 108 yards, but he impressed with 137 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The Tigers dominated both sides of the line, leaving Baylor struggling to respond. As they head into Week 2, Auburn is expected to maintain a size advantage, and I predict a decisive win for Auburn over Ball State, with a score of 42-3.
TV: ESPNU
Stream: ESPN+
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET / 6:30 p.m. CT
Date: Saturday, Sept. 6
Location: Jordan-Hare Stadium (Auburn)
The Ramblin Roundup 
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