A highly anticipated season opener is just days away — Auburn vs. Baylor is set to ignite Friday night lights in Waco, and the energy is off the charts. This isn’t just another game. It’s a prime-time clash between SEC grit and Big 12 firepower, with Auburn debuting on the road and Baylor coming in confident behind key returning talent.

Auburn’s senior running back Damari Alston, finally stepping into a starting role, says, “This is what I dreamed of… being ready for this moment.” His excitement is matched by quarterback Jackson Arnold, who returns to the Lone Star State where he played high school football, adding an emotional layer to his debut as Auburn’s starter FOX Sports+11Auburn Tigers Athletics+11CBSSports.com+11.

On the other side, Baylor keeps rolling with quarterback Sawyer Robertson and a high-scoring offense that averaged 40.8 points late last season Auburn Tigers Athletics+1.

This matchup isn’t just about who wins Week 1 — it’s a statement about where each program is headed. Will Auburn’s offensive line, battle-tested with the most career starts in the SEC, pave the way for victory? Can Baylor’s seasoned attack overwhelm the Tigers early and often?

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