ESPN Predicts Outcome of Auburn’s Final Three Games: What to Expect from the Tigers

As the college football season approaches its final stretch, Auburn University’s football team finds itself on the cusp of completing another eventful season in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). With just three games remaining in their regular-season schedule, Auburn’s aspirations for bowl eligibility, conference standings, and perhaps even a postseason berth are all on the line. The Tigers, under the leadership of Head Coach Hugh Freeze, have faced significant challenges and setbacks but still find themselves with a chance to finish the season strong.

ESPN, with its team of analysts and predictive models, has recently provided insight into how Auburn might fare in their final three games of the regular season. The outcomes of these games will play a crucial role in shaping the program’s future, not just for this year, but in the years to come. This article will take a closer look at Auburn’s upcoming matchups, break down the key factors that will influence the outcomes, and explore the predictions made by ESPN for each of the Tigers’ final three games.

The Final Stretch of the 2025 Season: The Context

Auburn has had an up-and-down season thus far. The team entered the year with a sense of optimism following the hiring of Hugh Freeze, a coach known for his ability to turn programs around. While the Tigers have shown flashes of brilliance, inconsistency has plagued them at key moments throughout the season, especially in their conference matchups. The final three games will therefore be crucial in determining not only their fate for the current season but also Freeze’s ability to build momentum for the future.

As we approach these final games, Auburn’s record is currently 5-5, meaning they must win at least one of these final games to become bowl-eligible. Anything less would leave the Tigers on the outside looking in when it comes to postseason play. On top of this, they are still fighting for positioning in the SEC standings, where they are currently in the middle of the pack.

The three teams Auburn faces in these final games—Alabama, Mississippi State, and Texas A&M—are all formidable opponents. While Auburn’s task won’t be easy, the Tigers do have the potential to shock and make a statement in the process. ESPN’s predictions are based on several key factors, including recent performances, injuries, and matchup data, but nothing in college football is ever certain. That’s what makes these final games so exciting for the players, coaches, and fans.

Game 1: Auburn vs. Alabama – The Iron Bowl

The Iron Bowl is one of the fiercest rivalries in college football. This annual matchup between Auburn and Alabama always brings intense competition and drama, and this year is no exception. ESPN’s prediction for this game, however, tilts heavily in favor of the Crimson Tide, who are currently ranked among the top teams in the country.

Key Matchups and Analysis

Alabama comes into the game with one of the most potent offenses in the country, led by quarterback Jalen Milroe, a dynamic dual-threat player who has been a difference-maker for the Tide this season. The Auburn defense, particularly its defensive line, will need to disrupt Milroe’s rhythm and keep him contained in the pocket to avoid big plays. Alabama’s offensive line has been solid, but Auburn’s front seven has the ability to create pressure, and this will be one of the keys to the game.

On the other side of the ball, Auburn’s offense has struggled to find consistency at quarterback. Robbie Ashford has had moments of brilliance but has also been inconsistent at times. He will need to take advantage of Alabama’s defense, which, while strong, has shown some vulnerabilities, especially in coverage. Auburn will need to be creative with their play-calling to keep Alabama’s defense off-balance, using a combination of run plays and short-to-medium throws to control the tempo of the game.

The running back duo of Jarquez Hunter and Damari Alston will also be key for Auburn’s offense. If the Tigers can establish the run game early and keep the ball away from Milroe, they may have a chance to limit Alabama’s scoring opportunities.

ESPN’s Prediction: Alabama Wins

ESPN’s prediction for the Iron Bowl gives Alabama a clear advantage. While Auburn has the talent to make this game competitive, Alabama’s superior depth, talent, and coaching experience will likely be too much for the Tigers to overcome. The Crimson Tide enters the game as the favorite, and while Auburn will fight hard, it’s expected that Alabama will come away with the win.

That being said, Auburn has been known to play spoiler in this rivalry, and given the stakes for both teams, anything can happen. If Auburn can play mistake-free football, get a few turnovers, and take advantage of any Alabama miscues, there’s always the possibility for an upset.

Game 2: Auburn vs. Mississippi State

After the Iron Bowl, Auburn’s next challenge is Mississippi State, a team that has been inconsistent throughout the season. The Bulldogs are currently in the middle of the SEC standings, and while they have had some solid performances, they have also struggled against more talented teams.

Key Matchups and Analysis

Mississippi State’s offense is centered around quarterback Will Rogers, who is a highly productive passer but has sometimes been prone to turnovers. Auburn’s defense, which has been solid at times, will need to take advantage of these potential mistakes. The Tigers’ secondary will be tested in this matchup, especially with Rogers’ ability to make plays downfield. Auburn’s pass rush will need to apply constant pressure to force Rogers into uncomfortable situations.

On offense, Auburn will look to find some rhythm after what is expected to be a tough outing against Alabama. This is the type of game where Auburn’s offense should have an opportunity to succeed, especially if they can establish a balanced attack. Running the ball effectively will be key for Auburn to control the clock and keep Mississippi State’s offense off the field. If Ashford can show growth in his passing game, this could be a winnable game for Auburn.

ESPN’s Prediction: Auburn Wins

In ESPN’s prediction for this game, Auburn is given the edge over Mississippi State. With home-field advantage and a potential bounce-back performance after a tough Iron Bowl, Auburn has the tools to take down the Bulldogs. Mississippi State’s defensive struggles, particularly in the secondary, could provide Auburn’s offense with opportunities to capitalize.

The Tigers will need to play disciplined football, minimize turnovers, and execute well on offense. If they can do that, Auburn is in a good position to secure a much-needed win in this contest.

Game 3: Auburn vs. Texas A&M

The final game of the regular season for Auburn comes against Texas A&M, a team that has been one of the most disappointing in the SEC this season given the high expectations that surrounded them. Texas A&M has been plagued by inconsistency at the quarterback position and has struggled to put together complete games. However, they still have talent on both sides of the ball, and the Aggies are always a dangerous opponent.

Key Matchups and Analysis

Auburn’s defense will once again have a chance to shine against a Texas A&M offense that has not been able to find a rhythm in 2025. The Aggies have talent at the skill positions, but inconsistency at quarterback and the offensive line has hindered their ability to put up big numbers. Auburn’s defensive line will need to exploit these weaknesses and make life difficult for Texas A&M’s offense.

Offensively, Auburn’s running backs will play a key role in this game. Texas A&M’s defense has had trouble stopping the run, and if Auburn can establish the ground game, it will open up opportunities for Ashford to make plays through the air. If Auburn can execute a balanced offensive game plan and control the clock, they will put themselves in a good position to win.

ESPN’s Prediction: Auburn Wins

For the final game of the regular season, ESPN predicts that Auburn will defeat Texas A&M. Given the Aggies’ struggles, this is a game that Auburn should be able to capitalize on. With a potential win over Mississippi State already in the books, Auburn could finish the season on a positive note with a victory over Texas A&M, securing their bowl eligibility and potentially building momentum for next year.

 A Pivotal End to the Season

The final three games for Auburn are crucial for the program’s future, and ESPN’s predictions suggest that the Tigers will need to overcome significant challenges, particularly against Alabama. However, with victories expected against Mississippi State and Texas A&M, Auburn has a chance to finish the season with a 7-5 record, ensuring their place in a bowl game.

This final stretch will provide a key test for Hugh Freeze’s ability to adjust and adapt. The way Auburn finishes the season could serve as a springboard for the program’s future, providing the team with momentum as they move into the offseason and prepare for 2026. If the Tigers can execute well in these games and come away with the victories that ESPN predicts, it will not only mark a successful end to 2025 but also show that the program is on the rise under Hugh Freeze’s leadership.