Overview

• Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. CT (8 p.m. ET) on FOX, with tickets available on secondary markets starting around $99–$105 and streaming alternatives highlighted as DirecTV’s free trial or Fubo discounts during YouTube TV’s FOX carriage dispute.
• Transfer quarterback Jackson Arnold is expected to start, while receiver Eric Singleton Jr. practiced in a non-contact jersey yet was seen returning a kickoff at full speed during the latest viewing window.
• Kicker Alex McPherson remains questionable; he drilled attempts from 30, 45 and 50 yards in practice as Hugh Freeze indicated Towns McGough or Connor Gibbs could be used by distance if needed.
• Freeze singled out Baylor defenders Jackie Marshall and Devyn Bobby and prepared for Dave Aranda’s simulated pressures, underscoring Auburn’s need to protect the quarterback.
• Coverage frames this season as pivotal for Freeze, with pundit projections in the 7–8 win range, and players noting the rarity of a season-opening road test against a Power Four opponent.