Auburn’s 2026 season opener vs. Baylor is heading to Atlanta for the Aflac Kickoff Game — and fans are divided. Ike Jones breaks down both sides of the decision: why Auburn made the move, what it means for NIL and recruiting, and why this could be a blueprint for the future of college football.
Ike also shares personal reflections from his time at Auburn and his trip to Waco this season, explaining why this move feels like a win for Auburn Athletics — but a loss for the city, state, and the small-town tradition that makes college football special.
Topics Covered:
Auburn’s official reasoning for the move and NIL strategy
How this benefits Auburn’s NIL positioning long-term
Why the move costs the city of Auburn and the state of Alabama millions
Whether Protective Stadium in Birmingham could’ve been a better option
The fan experience vs. the business side of college football
How winning football can reignite donor and fan engagement

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