The Vanderbilt Commodores (5-3, 2-2 SEC) will take on the Auburn Tigers (3-5, 1-4 SEC). Vanderbilt narrowly lost to Texas last week, 27-24, while Auburn secured a 24-10 win over Kentucky. Both teams are eager to prove themselves in this SEC matchup. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Vanderbilt’s offense is spearheaded by quarterback Diego Pavia, who has totaled 1,534 passing yards with 13 touchdowns and three interceptions. Pavia is also crucial in the ground game with 537 rushing yards, complemented by Eli Stowers’ 496 receiving yards and three touchdowns. The Commodores, averaging 28 points per game, will aim to utilize a balanced attack. However, avoiding turnovers against Auburn's defense will be essential for them to stay competitive on the road.

Defensively, Vanderbilt has shown moderate strength. Linebacker Bryan Longwell leads with 56 tackles, while the defense has recorded eight interceptions this season. Still, they’ve been vulnerable to big plays, a potential weakness against Auburn’s rushing attack led by Jarquez Hunter and his 863 rushing yards. For Vanderbilt, defensive discipline will be key to containing Hunter and limiting Auburn’s ground game.

Auburn’s offense has struggled to generate consistent points, averaging just under 20 per game. Quarterback Payton Thorne has thrown for 1,586 yards with 12 touchdowns but also has seven interceptions, highlighting a ball security concern. Auburn’s strength lies in its rushing game, with Hunter’s impressive 7.2 yards per carry likely a focal point to control the clock and pressure Vanderbilt’s defense.

On defense, Auburn allows around 25 points per game. Led by linebacker Dorian Mausi’s 50 tackles, the Tigers have managed 20 sacks this season, with Keldric Faulk and Jalen McLeod contributing heavily. Auburn’s pass rush could disrupt Pavia’s rhythm, and the secondary, with two interceptions from cornerback Kayin Lee, will aim to limit Vanderbilt’s passing threats.

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