Auburn’s 2025 slate lands just 17th-toughest nationally—10th inside the SEC—yet many analysts still call it the most manageable schedule the Tigers have faced in years. What makes it different? How does a September gauntlet featuring Baylor, Oklahoma and Georgia set the tone? And why does a late-season run of Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, Vanderbilt and Mercer look tailor-made for a playoff surge? This episode breaks down Phil Steele’s strength-of-schedule numbers, roster upgrades at quarterback and receiver, and the win total Hugh Freeze must hit in Year 3.

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