As Auburn football is squarely focused on Baylor, three non-conference opponents — Ball State, South Alabama, and Mercer — await the Tigers this season, as well. On paper, these matchups favor Auburn heavily, but each presents its own set of storylines and challenges. The question is: Will Auburn struggle at all with the “CupCakes”?
Ball State (Week 2 – Jordan-Hare Stadium)
The Ball State Cardinals come to Auburn from the Mid-American Conference (MAC). They struggled defensively last season, ranking near the bottom of the league, and while they return some skill talent, their offensive and defensive lines remain question marks. Quarterback Kyle Kelly, a dual-threat athlete who even played in the secondary last season, will lead an offense designed to spread defenses out. But Auburn’s size and depth in the trenches should overwhelm the Cardinals.
Verdict: Auburn’s physicality up front makes this a comfortable win.
South Alabama (Week 3 – Jordan-Hare Stadium)
If there’s a potential “trap game” on Auburn’s early schedule, this is it. South Alabama, led by former Texas quarterback Major Applewhite, has been steadily building into one of the Sun Belt’s more competitive programs. The Jaguars added Georgia Tech transfer QB Zach Pyron, who has big-game experience, and feature playmaker Devin Voisin at wide receiver.
The issue? Only three returning starters on defense. That lack of continuity makes it tough to slow down SEC talent. Still, with Oklahoma and Texas A&M looming immediately after, Auburn must avoid looking ahead. As former G5 players noted, Group of Five teams see these games as their chance to shine. If Auburn starts slow, South Alabama has enough to make things interesting.
Verdict: Auburn should win, but the Jaguars are capable of making the Tigers sweat if focus slips.
Mercer (Week 13 – Jordan-Hare Stadium)
Mercer enters as one of the stronger FCS programs in the nation, ranked No. 11 in the preseason poll. Dual-threat quarterback DJ Smith leads an offense with size on the offensive line, though they’ll be leaning on several underclassmen. While the Bears are well-coached and capable of playing scrappy football, Auburn’s SEC depth and speed should wear them down over four quarters.
Verdict: Auburn cruises, but Mercer won’t be intimidated early.
Final Takeaway
These matchups give Auburn opportunities to build confidence and refine its identity before diving deep into the SEC gauntlet. Ball State and Mercer should be comfortable wins. South Alabama, however, is circled as the one to watch — a classic “don’t overlook them” opponent. For Hugh Freeze, the key will be keeping his Tigers focused, disciplined, and ready to dominate games they’re expected to win.
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