The Up Tempo podcast

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Auburn Tigers’ defense, breaking things down position by position to see where this unit stands heading into a pivotal third season under DJ Durkin. From the defensive line to the linebackers to the secondary, we evaluate the strengths, question marks, and key players who could shape the identity of this group.

We also zoom out to have an honest conversation about expectations—what’s realistic for this defense in Year 3? Should fans expect a major leap, or is this still a unit with something to prove? We separate hype from reality and discuss what success actually looks like in the context of the SEC.

Whether you’re looking for a detailed breakdown or a big-picture outlook, this episode gives you everything you need to know about where Auburn’s defense is now—and where it needs to go.

Spring football has officially arrived on the Plains as Auburn Tigers football opens up spring practice, and we’re breaking down everything you need to know. From early storylines and position battles to key players to watch, we dive into what this spring means for the Tigers heading into the 2026 season.

We’re also joined by special guest Kyle Rush, who brings his insight on Auburn’s biggest questions, expectations for the program, and what fans should be paying attention to over the next few weeks.

If you’re ready for football season, it all starts here—War Eagle!

-photo credit: auburntigers.com

It’s a huge day on the Plains with two major Auburn matchups happening within hours of each other. In this episode, I preview a busy afternoon on the campus of Auburn as Auburn Tigers men's basketball hosts South Alabama Jaguars men's basketball in the National Invitation Tournament, while Auburn Tigers baseball takes on Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets baseball in a massive Top-5 showdown on the diamond.

I break down what Auburn basketball needs to do to keep its postseason run alive in the NIT, key matchups to watch against South Alabama, and how the Tigers can control the game. Then we shift over to baseball to talk about one of the biggest games of the season as Auburn faces Georgia Tech in a battle between two of the nation’s best teams.

From postseason hoops to elite college baseball, it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting afternoons on the Plains this season.

The win total for the Auburn Tigers football has been set at 6.5 games, and it’s raising a big question heading into the season: is that number fair?

In this episode, we break down Auburn’s projected season and debate whether the Tigers should realistically finish over or under 6.5 wins. We take a look at the roster, key returning pieces, offseason changes, and how Auburn stacks up against the rest of the Southeastern Conference.

We also examine the schedule, highlight the swing games that could decide the season, and give our final prediction on whether Auburn clears the number.

Is 6.5 the right line — or is Auburn being underestimated?

Tune in as we break it all down and make the call: Over or Under.

Spring practice is almost here, which means competition season has officially begun on the Plains. In this episode, we dive into some of the most interesting and important position battles that could shape Auburn’s roster heading into the upcoming season. We talk about the storylines to watch, the players who could be pushing for bigger roles, and how these competitions might impact the team’s depth chart by the time fall rolls around. Spring is always a critical evaluation period for the coaching staff, and several spots across the roster will be worth keeping a close eye on. If you want a preview of the biggest competitions and what they could mean for Auburn moving forward, this episode has you covered.

Auburn Athletic Director John Cohen is under the microscope as criticism continues to swirl around the direction of Auburn athletics. But how fair is that criticism really? In this episode, we take a closer look at the decisions Cohen has made, the pressure that comes with leading a powerhouse program, and whether fans and media might be judging too quickly.

We also explore the big “what if” that could change the entire narrative: new Auburn football head coach Alex Golesh. If Golesh proves to be the right hire and finds success on the field, the same moves being questioned today could suddenly look like strategic brilliance. Could Cohen go from being criticized to being called a genius?

Join us as we break down the expectations, the risks, and the potential payoff for Auburn football and the future of the program. 🏈🎙️

In this episode, we break down the three games that will define the season for Auburn Tigers football. Every year there are a few matchups that truly shape how things play out—and for Auburn, these three could determine everything from bowl eligibility to where the Tigers stack up in the Southeastern Conference.

We rank the three most important games on Auburn’s schedule and explain why each one carries so much weight. Is it a rivalry showdown, a conference test, or a swing game that could change the entire trajectory of the season?

Tune in as we debate the stakes, the matchups, and what each game could mean for Auburn football this year. 🏈🎙️

When Alex Golesh says his offense at Auburn Tigers football will have an “identity,” it’s more than just coach speak — it’s a direct response to years of confusion, inconsistency, and offensive frustration on the Plains.

In this episode, I break down what that identity could actually look like. What are the core principles Golesh is likely to build around? Tempo? Physicality? Quarterback-driven playmaking? Explosiveness? And just as important — how will it be different from what Auburn fans have endured for far too long?

When a season unravels the way this one has for Auburn Tigers men's basketball, the blame game comes fast and loud. Is it on the coaching staff? The roster construction? Player development? Leadership? Or is this simply a case of expectations outpacing reality?

In this episode, we take a hard look at what went wrong on the Plains. We break down the role of head coach Bruce Pearl, examine the scrutiny surrounding assistant coach Steven Pearl, and evaluate whether the players themselves failed to execute when it mattered most.

But instead of pointing fingers in just one direction, we dig into the bigger picture — culture, accountability, adjustments, and buy-in. Because the truth is rarely simple. Championships are collective. So are collapses.

Was this a coaching misstep? A locker room issue? A talent evaluation problem? Or does responsibility fall on everyone?

In this episode, we break down the most compelling battles taking shape on the Plains — the spots where the depth chart feels anything but settled. Which returning players are fighting to hold off challengers? Which newcomers are pushing for early roles? And where could a surprise name emerge before summer even arrives?

We talk momentum, development, coaching philosophy, and what these competitions reveal about the direction of the program heading into the fall.

Spring is about opportunity — and at Auburn, every rep is a statement.