Skip to main content
    Payton Thorne, Robby Ashford, Holden Geriner throw at Auburn football fall camp

    Behind Enemy Lines: UMass expert chimes in on Auburn's opener

    We take a look at Auburn's first opponent by reaching out to a UMass expert.

    In this story:

    Auburn Tigers
    Auburn Tigers
    Massachusetts Minutemen
    Massachusetts Minutemen

    The Auburn Tigers will host UMass to start the Hugh Freeze era by taking on a team that has already played. 

    UMass caught some favor with some fans after defeating New Mexico State during their week zero clash. Now they come to SEC Country and will face a much tougher test.

    We reached out to Michael Traini of 247 Sports to answer a few questions from behind enemy lines.

    If UMass were to pull off an upset, what would they need to do right?

    UMass quarterback Taisun Phommachanh during an Aggie football game on Saturday, August 25, 2023, at the Aggie Memorial Stadium.

    Traini: Basically play a perfect game. They have to control the line of scrimmage offensively and defensively, force multiple turnovers while committing none themselves, and confuse Auburn with their playcalling. They can maybe surprise Auburn in this game early but I don't think we see an upset at the end of the day.

    How do you see UMass game planning for a new offense at Auburn?

    UMass defense players tackle NMSU running back Star Thomas during an Aggie football game on Saturday, August 25, 2023, at the Aggie Memorial Stadium.

    Traini: Fortunately for UMass they've seen Hugh Freeze for the past several years at Liberty so they have some familiarity. Outside of a specialized offense like a triple option, UMass' preparation primarily revolves around the way they play defense. Man coverage, high pressure, multiple fronts. They're going to try and create havoc to confuse the Auburn offense on Saturday.

    Will the road trips to NMSU then to Auburn impact the team?

    Aggie linebacker Gabe Peterson reaches for UMass quarterback Taisun Phommachanh during an Aggie football game on Saturday, August 256 2023, at the Aggie Memorial Stadium.

    Traini: I don't think so. UMass has been an FBS Independent for the better part of a decade now, so long trips for games even in back-to-back weeks are nothing new. They also made sure to prepare the players on hydration and recovery for these two games in hot temperatures as well. They're excited to play on a big stage.

    What are your score predictions for the game?

    Auburn football helmet. Generic photo.

    Traini: While I think Auburn -37 is probably too big a line, I think this will be a victory for the Tigers without too much trouble. UMass will probably make some plays and keep it close for a time but in the end my score prediction is Auburn 45-17.

    Engage with Auburn Daily on Socials!

    Join the Locked on Auburn Discord

    Follow Auburn Daily on Twitter

    Like Auburn Daily on Facebook

    Subscribe to Locked On Auburn on YouTube

    © 2024 ABG-SI LLC. SPORTS ILLUSTRATED IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF ABG-SI LLC. - All Rights Reserved. The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only. All betting content is intended for an audience ages 21+. All advice, including picks and predictions, is based on individual commentators’ opinions and not that of Minute Media or its related brands. All picks and predictions are suggestions only. No one should expect to make money from the picks and predictions discussed on this website. For more information, please read our Legal Disclaimer. Gambling content intended for 21+. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.