It’s the 500th episode (!!!) of The Auburn Observer podcast, with Justin back in Auburn and Dan holding down the fort in Atlanta for the final stretch of SEC Media Days. Topics for this landmark show include:

* the “small room” at SEC Media Days and why it’s important

* Hugh Freeze wanting to shift the narrative around Auburn football this week

* the change from “gotta make a bowl game” to… potential playoff hopes?

* why projecting confidence is necessary after four straight losing seasons

* Dan’s insight on what he heard from others about Auburn QB Jackson Arnold

* the decision to send Arnold to SEC Media Days and why that matters

* Connor Lew’s impressive stretch in front of the microphones in Atlanta

* Keldric Faulk’s leadership, both on and off the field

* the Jourdin Crawford hype train

* Justin’s take on the Baylor game and how it could affect “fall” camp

* how the 9-game schedule debate was leverage for something else all along

* which 2025 Auburn opponents stood out at SECMD to Dan

* the guys’ preseason picks for SEC champion and Auburn All-SEC first-teamers

* a tribute to those of you who helped us get to HALF OF A THOUSAND episodes

* FOR THE SICKOS

* a reminder to send your mailbag questions and Top Four prompts to [email protected] for Friday’s subscribers-only episode

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