Texas A&M vs. Auburn Prediction: Picks, betting odds, analysis, more

The 13th ranked Auburn Tigers travel to College Station to battle with the 14th ranked Texas A&M Aggies on Saturday inside Kyle Field. This is a pivotal game for both teams in the race for the SEC West. While the Aggies would need a win and significant help to win the division, a win for Auburn likely sets up the Iron Bowl on November 28 to decide the division.  Both teams enter the game with a 6-2 record. 

Looking into the game, the Auburn offense will be led by quarterback Bo Nix and running back Tank Bigsby. In the Tigers’ last game against Ole Miss, Nix shined as he passed for 276 yards and one touchdown on 22-of-30 completions. Bigsby rushed for 140 yards and a score on 23 attempts. For Auburn to have success, the offense will have to be clicking between Nix’s passing and Bigsby’s ground attack. One bright spot for Auburn is that Nix has started to look much improved as the season has gone on. 

For Texas A&M, their offense will rely heavily on quarterback Zach Calzada. He played an efficient game in A&M’s big upset win over Alabama earlier in the season. Tight end Jalen Wydermeyer will be targeted a lot on Saturday in the passing attack. If the Aggies have a tough time getting the passing game started, running back Isaiah Spiller has the tools to help carry the team on the ground. 

On defense for Auburn, the unit will have to contain Wydermeyer in the passing game and force pressure on Calzada to rush throws. Auburn’s defense has totaled 22 sacks and five interceptions. Roger McCreary will be a player to keep an eye on in the secondary, as he has elevated to become one of the best defenders in the SEC.

Defensively for Texas A&M, they have to hold Auburn to three and out situations. Nix is effective in the ground game when necessary and those situations will likely become available on Saturday. But the Aggies have to keep pressure in the pocket and force Nix to beat them through the air. If A&M can contain the run early, it could become a one-dimensional ballgame with Nix being forced to drive the Tigers down the field. 

Texas A&M vs. Auburn Prediction

Nick Cole and Christopher Smith share their Texas A&M vs. Auburn prediction and betting picks for Week 10 of the 2021 college football season.