For the first two years of his tenure on the Plains, Auburn football Head Coach Hugh Freeze has tried hard to manage fan expectations. After two years of Bryan Harsin, fans were eager for wins again, and the elite recruiting classes buoyed optimism ahead of both the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
However, managing fan expectations didn't always work out for Freeze, especially when the Tigers would start their season with big wins over FCS opponents. In 2023, Auburn football had massive wins over UMass and Samford within the first three games. In 2024, the Tigers demolished Alabama A&M and dominated New Mexico.
This year, Auburn football is changing up its debut. Rather than playing an FCS team on Saturday, the Tigers are kicking off their season on Friday night, August 29, against formidable competition in the form of the Baylor Bears. For Freeze, the opportunity to play a big matchup right out of the gate has been a big motivator.
"I do like having your FCS opponent later in the year," said Freeze, per Auburn Undercover. "Us having another Power Four team to open the season with, it grabs everyone's attention. There shouldn't be anyone running around in fall camp — we've got something to get ready for. It'll be a challenge right out of the gate: Texas heat, and I'm sure an electric environment on a Friday night."
Freeze is also a fan of playing on Friday night. Both schools announced the game would be moved from Saturday to Friday in March.
"Give me a Thursday or Friday game anytime you want," Freeze said. "I love having extra time to rest and recover (for the next game). This season is long and difficult. I love the thought. I'm glad our administration did it."
Though an official time has not been scheduled, the Tigers' first game of the season will be on Friday, August 29, in Waco, Texas.