Auburn @ Vanderbilt preview

Last Meeting ( Oct 4, 2008 ) Auburn 13, Vanderbilt 14

In the 41 all-time meetings between Auburn and Vanderbilt, the series is tied at 20-20-1. While the Tigers have won 13 of the past 14 meetings, this road game could prove difficult for an Auburn team off to its worst start since 1998. Vanderbilt’s tough pass defense, a group that ranks third in the SEC (148.2 yards per game), matches up well with Auburn’s lackluster offense, which ranks last in the conference in both total offense (287.5) and scoring (16.2). For the Tigers to earn their first conference win of the season, they’ll look to lean heavily on their ground game and exploit the Commodores’ porous rush defense, which ranks last in the SEC at 203.5 yards per game.

TV: 12:21 p.m. ET, SEC Network. LINE: Vanderbilt -7

ABOUT VANDERBILT (2-4, 1-3 SEC): The Commodores had some encouraging moments in last week’s 31-17 loss to Florida, namely the play of standout junior wideout Jordan Matthews. Quarterback Jordan Rodgers – who has 1,068 yards in the air, but just three touchdowns on the year -- looks to Matthews early and often, as the receiver is second in the SEC with 43 receptions and 617 yards. In addition to a busy day for Rodgers and Matthews in the passing game, tailback Zac Stacy, who enters the game with 99 carries and 499 yards on the season, will be featured heavily. Defensive stalwarts Kenny Ladler and Chase Garnham lead a Commodores defense that has allowed just 22.3 points per game this season.

ABOUT AUBURN (1-5, 0-4): The Tigers hope to hold a lead heading into the final frame, as they have been outscored 62-3 in the fourth quarter this season. In order to establish a lead, the Tigers will try to help their duo of struggling quarterbacks -- Kiehl Frazier, who has eight interceptions, and Clint Moseley -- with a strong commitment to the run. Emerging star sophomore tailback Tre Mason is averaging 5.1 yards per carry with three scores while versatile senior Onterio McCalebb is averaging 5.1 yards per carry with two touchdowns and is third-best in the SEC with 30.6 yards per kickoff return. The Tigers are converting just 29.9 percent of third-downs, so a big day from this duo could be crucial. Senior linebacker Daren Bates is the top tackler in the SEC and figures to be busy again Saturday.

EXTRA POINTS

1. For the first time in 16 seasons, Vanderbilt Stadium is sold out for the second straight conference home game.

2. Auburn has lost six consecutive SEC games and is 9-10 overall since winning the BCS title following the 2010 season.

3. The point total has gone under in four of Auburn's last six games.

PREDICTION: Vanderbilt 27, Auburn 17