The UL Monroe Warhawks enter this contest with a 5-3 record, showcasing a season of resilience and competitive play. Offensively, they average 21.4 points per game, with a balanced attack that leans slightly towards the run, executing rushing plays on approximately 63% of their snaps. Their ground game averages 149.6 yards per game, led by a committee of running backs who have contributed to this steady production. The passing game, however, has faced challenges, averaging 121.8 yards per game with a completion rate of 54.46%. Quarterback efficiency has been a concern, as evidenced by an interception rate of 3.96%. Defensively, UL Monroe allows 21.2 points per game, demonstrating a solid defensive front. They have been effective in limiting opponents to 352.4 total yards per game, with a notable strength in pass defense, allowing only 182.4 passing yards per game. The Warhawks’ defense has also been opportunistic, maintaining a turnover margin of +0.6 per game, which ranks them 29th nationally.

The Auburn Tigers, holding a 6-3 record, have displayed a potent offense, averaging 20.7 points per game. Their offensive strategy is balanced, with a slight preference for the pass, executing passing plays on approximately 48% of their snaps. The Tigers average 233.2 passing yards per game, with quarterback Payton Thorne completing 62% of his passes for 1,586 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. The rushing attack contributes 154.3 yards per game, led by a dynamic backfield that has been effective in moving the chains. Defensively, Auburn allows 23.8 points per game, with a defense that has been effective in limiting big plays. They allow 356.5 total yards per game, with a pass defense that permits 224.7 yards per game. The Tigers’ defense has been adept at creating pressure, recording a sack rate of 6.70%, which ranks them 50th nationally. Special teams could play a pivotal role in this matchup. Auburn’s kicker has struggled, converting only 44.44% of field goal attempts, which ranks last nationally. In contrast, UL Monroe’s kicker has been more reliable, with a conversion rate of 77.78%. Key factors to watch include UL Monroe’s ability to establish their running game against Auburn’s defensive front and Auburn’s passing attack testing UL Monroe’s secondary. Turnover margin will be crucial, as both teams have shown tendencies that could influence the game’s outcome. Auburn’s home-field advantage and historical dominance in this matchup may also play a psychological role.