Auburn pulled a rabbit out of its hat in Week 1, avoiding what would have been one of the most embarrassing losses by a reigning national champion in the following season’s opener. Down 38-28 with just over two minutes left, the Tigers got a 15-yard TD pass from Barrett Trotter, then recovered an onside kick. And with 30 seconds left, star RB Michael Dyer scored on a 1-yard run to complete the comeback.

But know this: Utah State is one of the worst programs in the nation and hasn’t had a winning season since 1996. Auburn has now won its past 16 games, but nine of them have been by eight points or less. Trotter completed a solid starting debut in place of departed Heisman winner Cam Newton. Trotter was 17 of 23 for 261 yards and three touchdowns.

Mississippi State, coming off its best season in years, blew out a bad Memphis team 59-14 in Week 1. Star running back Vick Ballard rushed for 166 yards and three TDs on just 10 carries. QB Chris Relf completed 13 of 21 passes for 202 yards and two touchdowns for MSU, which finished with a school-record 645 total yards.

Auburn has won nine consecutive home games. The Tigers have won three in a row against Mississippi State, including 17-14 last year.

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