Auburn Tigers vs Tennessee Volunteers Betting Preview
The Auburn Tigers head to Knoxville to face the Tennessee Volunteers in a Southeastern Conference showdown at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center. Auburn enters with momentum from a win over Texas, while Tennessee looks to extend its strong 14-6 season and 11-3 home mark after edging Georgia. With the Volunteers favored by 5.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between Auburn’s free-throw dominance and Tennessee’s balanced offense.
Line Movement and Odds
Tennessee is favored, but Auburn’s offensive firepower makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- Auburn Spread: +5.5 (-109)
- Tennessee Spread: -5.5 (-115)
- Auburn MoneyLine: +207
- Tennessee MoneyLine: -265
- Total: 148.5 (-110)
Follow the college basketball odds board for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh Auburn’s scoring pace against Tennessee’s home-court consistency.
Matchup Breakdown
Auburn Outlook
The Tigers average 85.1 points per game, with Keyshawn Hall, Kevin Overton, and Johni Broome leading the offense. Hall’s 31 points vs Texas highlighted his dominance, while Overton’s 25 points showcased his efficiency. Auburn’s efficiency (85.1 points per game, 37th nationally; 2nd in free throws made per game) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and capitalize at the line makes them dangerous even as underdogs.
Tennessee Outlook
The Volunteers average 82.4 points per game, with Ja’Kobi Gillespie, Nate Ament, and Dalton Knecht driving production. Gillespie’s 21 points and six assists vs Georgia highlighted his playmaking, while Ament’s 19 points showcased his balance. Tennessee’s efficiency (14-6 overall record; 11-3 at home; 53.8% effective FG) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score consistently and defend at home makes them tough to beat in Knoxville.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on free-throw opportunities and perimeter shooting. Auburn thrives on Hall’s scoring and Overton’s consistency, while Tennessee must rely on Gillespie’s playmaking and Ament’s rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.
Injuries / Availability
Auburn: The Tigers report no fresh injury concerns heading into Saturday’s contest.
Tennessee: The Volunteers are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
Thompson-Boling Arena has been a fortress for Tennessee, where they’ve gone 11-3 this season. Auburn, however, has shown resilience with three straight wins, making this a clash of Volunteers’ home dominance versus Tigers’ recent surge in form.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Tennessee 83, Auburn 80
- Auburn +5.5 → Best Bet. Their free-throw efficiency and scoring depth suggest they can keep the game close.
- Over 148.5 → Total play. Both teams’ offensive pace points toward a combined score above the line.
Tennessee’s depth and home-court advantage should carry them to victory, while Auburn’s offensive firepower keeps the spread competitive. Expect a high-scoring contest with totals landing comfortably over the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
SEC games often spotlight physical battles and free-throw margins. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in conference efficiency trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For Auburn vs Tennessee, expert breakdowns in Buy Picks can help bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.


