Samford @ Auburn preview

THE STORY: In Homecoming at Jordan-Hare Stadium, Auburn steps out of conference for a matchup with Samford, which is coached by former Auburn quarterback and 1971 Heisman Trophy winner Pat Sullivan. In the last two years, the Tigers have scored 60 or more points in games against FCS opponents Chattanooga and Furman, but these two teams haven’t met since 1993. Auburn, which is currently in fourth place in the SEC West Division, is 25-0-1 all-time against Samford.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, No TV Line: None

ABOUT SAMFORD (6-4, 4-4 Southern Conference): Sullivan told reporters this week that he hasn’t been in Jordan-Hare Stadium since a 1996 Auburn-LSU game, so emotions will be running high for the former Tigers star. A pregame celebration will devote a half hour to recognizing the Auburn legend’s accomplishments and commemorating the 40-year anniversary of his Heisman campaign. Sullivan’s Bulldogs are coming off a 19-14 win at The Citadel, and this is their final game of the season.

ABOUT AUBURN (6-4, 4-3 SEC): It’s been an up-and-down season for the rebuilding Tigers, who haven’t won or lost two games in a row since Oct. 1. Auburn’s latest loss, a 45-7 drubbing at Georgia, was its worst against the Bulldogs since 1946. The Tigers’ defense continued its struggles, allowing touchdowns on four of Georgia’s first five possessions. Auburn is ranked 86th nationally in total defense and 97th against the run, giving up 38 or more points in five separate games. The Tigers are, however, 5-0 at home this season and have a 13-game home winning streak.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. Auburn is tied for the toughest schedule in the nation based on opponent’s record (58-33).

2. Tigers’ running back Michael Dyer has five 100-yard rushing games this season.

3. Samford has been shut out by Auburn 18 times in 26 meetings.

PREDICTION: Auburn 52, Samford 14. Dyer will run all over the Samford defense, giving the Tigers their 14th consecutive home win.