Auburn Tigers vs South Alabama Jaguars Picks and Predictions September 13th 2025

Auburn Showing Early Season Strength

No. 24 Auburn has opened the season with strong momentum, building confidence heading into Saturday’s matchup with South Alabama. The Tigers showcased their physicality in a 38-24 victory over Baylor in Week 1, then shifted gears in a 42-3 home rout of Ball State, where quarterback Jackson Arnold took center stage.

Fans on the Plains are seeing signs that this Auburn team may have the balance and leadership it has lacked in recent years. For a full look at programs across the country, visit the college football teams page

Jackson Arnold Emerging as a Star

Arnold, a junior and former Oklahoma transfer, has already shown his dual-threat capabilities in two distinct performances. Against Baylor, he passed for 108 yards while rushing for 137 yards and two touchdowns, sparking Auburn’s ground-heavy attack. Against Ball State, Arnold nearly set a school record for completion percentage, connecting on 24 of 28 passes for 251 yards and three touchdowns.

His ability to adapt to the game plan—whether attacking with his legs or precision passing—gives Auburn’s offense versatility. Arnold also benefits from a talented receiving corps that includes Georgia Tech transfer Eric Singleton Jr., adding depth to the passing game. Bettors following these performances can find updated college football odds each week.

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Defensive Power Fuels Auburn’s Confidence

While Arnold’s rise is grabbing headlines, Auburn’s defense has been just as impactful. Against Ball State, the Tigers held their opponent to minus-3 rushing yards on 33 attempts. It was the first time since 2001 that Auburn accomplished that feat, tallying 14 tackles for loss and six sacks.

Head coach Hugh Freeze praised the unit for playing hungry and physical, setting the tone as Auburn prepares for the SEC grind. To get more perspective on upcoming matchups, check out the latest college football previews

South Alabama’s Offensive Threats

South Alabama (1-1) enters as a 25.5-point underdog but showed fight in last week’s narrow 33-31 loss to Tulane. The Jaguars put up 421 yards of total offense, led by quarterback Bishop Davenport, who threw for 231 yards. Receiver Devin Voisin was his top target, hauling in eight catches for 152 yards and two touchdowns.

That offensive spark makes South Alabama a potential challenge, but the concerns lie on defense. The Jaguars allowed 406 yards to Tulane and may be without key defenders Blayne Myrick and Ty Goodwill, both injured last week.

Outlook and Betting Angle

This game provides Auburn with another opportunity to refine its identity before SEC play intensifies. Arnold’s growing comfort as a leader paired with a relentless defense makes the Tigers heavy favorites. South Alabama’s best hope lies in turning the game into a shootout, but defensive depth issues could make that difficult.

For those looking to bet on this matchup, check out expert college football picks explore the buy picks page and see which experts are leading the way on the best handicappers leaderboard