Cal-Auburn Preview
Cal managed to start the campaign on a winning note following a somewhat stressful 31-13 comeback victory against FCS 18th-ranked UC Davis. The win was particularly important given the tough road contest coming up against Auburn after the heartbreaking loss Cal suffered at the hands of the Tigers last year.
As the two teams prepare to face off again in the upcoming matchup, both appear to have undergone significant changes, setting the stage for an intriguing and highly anticipated game.
“They've done a very nice job of an influx of talent via looks like the portal and from the high school recruiting area,” defensive coordinator Peter Sirmon said. “So, that's always a big concern, just the amount of speed that they're going to be able to put on the field. The amount of explosive receptions was remarkable… If you're an offensive coach. It's concerning if you're a defensive coach.”
“Our game against UC Davis was a great opportunity for our team to execute the fundamentals,” said head coach Justin Wilcox. “I was pleased with how disciplined we were, especially on defense. We made some adjustments in the second half that really paid off, but there’s always room for improvement.” Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, Wilcox added, “Auburn is a different challenge, a much more physical team. We have to match their intensity right from the start and be prepared for a fast, aggressive style of play. They’re well-coached, and we know it’ll be a battle.”
Sirmon echoed those sentiments.
“Defensively, I was proud of how our guys responded in key situations against UC Davis. We emphasized taking care of our assignments, and that showed, but we’ll need to be even sharper against Auburn. Their offensive line is strong, and they’ve got a running back (Jarquez Hunter) that can cause problems if we’re not disciplined in our gaps.”
Offensive coordinator Mike Bloesch highlighted the importance of execution moving forward, saying, “Offensively, we executed well enough to get the win against UC Davis, but going into Auburn, the stakes are higher. We’ll need to control the line of scrimmage and limit turnovers if we want to have success. Auburn’s front seven is tough, so it’s going to take a complete team effort to move the ball consistently.”
Key Insights from Alabama A&M opener
Coming off a resounding 73-3 victory against an overmatched Alabama A&M in their season opener last weekend, the Auburn Tigers appear in strong form as they head into their next game. The contest highlighted key elements of Auburn's offensive power, defensive prowess, and overall readiness under head coach Hugh Freeze.
Offensive Firepower
Auburn's offense in 2024 is driven by several key players who bring dynamic playmaking ability and leadership to the unit. Quarterback Payton Thorne has quickly established himself as the leader, combining his strong arm with mobility, which was on full display in the season opener where he threw for four touchdowns and added another on the ground. At running back, Jarquez Hunter is a powerful and explosive runner, capable of breaking off big plays, as shown in his 34-yard touchdown on his first carry of the season. Wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith, a transfer from Penn State, has added a deep threat dimension to the passing game, with his speed and route running making him a go-to target for Thorne. Additionally, Rivaldo Fairweather at tight end provides a reliable and versatile option in the passing game, using his size and athleticism to create mismatches. Together, these players give Auburn a balanced and dangerous offense capable of both explosive plays and sustained drives.
Auburn’s offense wasted no time setting the tone, scoring on their first possession within 47 seconds. Quarterback Payton Thorne led the charge, throwing for 322 yards and four touchdowns in the first half alone. Thorne displayed accuracy, completing 13 of 21 passes, and versatility, adding 49 rushing yards and a touchdown. His chemistry with his receivers was particularly evident in a 67-yard strike to transfer wideout KeAndre Lambert-Smith, who finished with 99 yards on two catches.
Auburn's defense in 2024 is anchored by several standout players who bring versatility and leadership to the unit. At linebacker, Eugene Asante plays a crucial role with his range and tackling ability, making him a pivotal force in defending both the ground and air attacks. Freshman defensive end Keldric Faulk adds a promising presence as a pass rusher, showcasing immense potential to disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
Defensively, Auburn stifled Alabama A&M from the outset. The Tigers' defense forced three-and-outs early, setting up short fields for the offense to capitalize. Auburn's aggressive pass rush and strong secondary play prevented any real offensive momentum for Alabama A&M. Auburn held the Bulldogs to only 149 total yards while allowing just 3 points, all from a second-quarter field goal.
Auburn's special teams were sharp as well. They maintained solid field position throughout the game, and kicker Alex McPherson was perfect in his extra-point attempts. With the game well in hand by halftime, the teams agreed to shorten the second half, playing 10-minute quarters.
Key Players to Watch
· Payton Thorne: The junior quarterback will look to build on his strong start, continuing to showcase his arm strength and mobility.
· KeAndre Lambert-Smith: The Penn State transfer wide receiver offers deep-play ability and will likely be a key target for Thorne in upcoming matchups.
· Jarquez Hunter: Auburn’s lead running back displayed explosiveness, and his big-play potential makes him a focal point of the Tigers' run game.
What to Expect Moving Forward
Auburn will look to carry this momentum into tougher contests. Their balance between passing and rushing, coupled with a stingy defense, makes them a formidable opponent. If the offensive line continues to perform at this level and the defense maintains its high-pressure approach, Auburn will be tough to beat.
As Auburn progresses through the season, Payton Thorne’s leadership and the offense's ability to execute will be critical factors in determining their success against stronger opposition. The early-season tune-up against Alabama A&M has provided a glimpse of Auburn's potential under Freeze, and fans should expect continued improvement in the weeks ahead
As the Cal Golden Bears gear up to face Auburn on Saturday, the stakes couldn’t be higher. This game is not just another match; it’s a crucial test of their resilience and growth since last year’s heartbreaking defeat and an important opportunity to get on the national radar with a win over a traditionally strong SEC opponent in a tough venue. Both teams have evolved significantly, making this encounter truly more interesting. This game will set the tone for both teams moving forward and could decide what kind of season each team could be in store for.