California vs. Auburn Odds & Betting Predictions - September 7, 2024

Follow On X: https://x.com/PicksOffice Auburn's offense demonstrated its explosive potential in the opener, racking up 73 points against Alabama A&M with over 600 yards of offense. This early display of offensive firepower, combined with Hugh Freeze’s reputation for up-tempo offenses, suggests Auburn will be looking to push the pace and put points on the board. Payton Thorne and Jarquez Hunter form a dynamic rushing duo that should test Cal’s defense, especially considering Auburn's strong zone-read attack. Despite the struggles Auburn’s offense faced against Cal last season, their ability to score in bunches, paired with the aggressive playcalling Freeze is known for, gives confidence that the Tigers will not be held to a low total again. Cal’s offense, while historically average under Wilcox, should see improvement this season, particularly with the return of key starters on the offensive line and Jaydn Ott leading the backfield. Ott was highly effective last season, ranking 21st in EPA per Rush and averaging 5.3 yards per carry. This should help open up Cal’s passing game, where Fernando Mendoza will look to improve after a below-average showing last season. Even if the passing game struggles, Cal’s commitment to establishing the run with Ott against a questionable Auburn defensive front that ranked 124th in Power Success Rate allowed could produce big gains on the ground and set up scoring opportunities. Defensively, both teams have returning starters, but vulnerabilities remain. Cal’s defense was highly susceptible to explosive passing plays last year, ranking 121st in Pass Explosiveness allowed. Auburn will likely test that weakness, especially if Thorne can find rhythm in throwing the ball downfield. Additionally, Auburn’s defense, while adding new talent, is transitioning under a new coordinator and faces a significant challenge in their first real test of the season. With both teams adjusting to new defensive schemes and coordinators, the likelihood of miscues leading to scoring opportunities increases. Auburn's defense last season was average, and despite the influx of transfers, their struggles in stopping the run in short-yardage situations could be problematic. Cal’s ground game, powered by Ott and the experienced offensive line, could exploit these issues, helping the Bears sustain drives and keep pace on the scoreboard. With Auburn's fast-paced offense, Cal’s improved run game, and potential defensive lapses on both sides, the conditions are ripe for this game to exceed the 54-point total.