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.

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?

© Meg Potter/Sun-News / USA TODAY NETWORK

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?

© Meg Potter/Sun-News / USA TODAY NETWORK

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?

© Meg Potter/Sun-News / USA TODAY NETWORK

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?

Eric Starling/Auburn Daily

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.

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