2. Auburn Tigers - 8-1
Like rival Alabama, Auburn has also had a difficult schedule. Yet a case can be made they’ve been the most dominant team at times, beating Houston in a top-5 battle, along with defeating Iowa State, UNC, and Memphis to win the Maui Invitational. Their recent road loss at Duke is more than understandable and even then, they had a shot to win in the final minutes.
The Tigers have a favorite for National Player of the Year right now in Johni Broome, leading the team with 19.6 ppg, 11.9 rpg, 3.6 apg, and 2.8 blocks per game. The supporting cast has also been strong, with five other players averaging at least 9.6 ppg. Chad Baker-Mazara (13.1 ppg) is shooting 47% from deep, with the team overall ranking in the top 10 nationally in FG shooting at 51%.
The Tigers' frontcourt and wings are among the country's best. But what’s held them back in the past has been the spotty backcourt play. So far, it looks as if they’ve improved at those positions, with 5-star freshman Tahaad Pettiford and GT transfer Miles Kelly averaging double figures on efficient shooting numbers. And right now, Chaney Johnson (9.6 ppg) looks to be a favorite for SEC 6th Man of the Year as well.
Auburn can win in a shootout and is comfortable winning a defensive slugfest as well. But last year’s upset loss to Yale in the first round of the NCAA Tournament also shows that this team isn’t a lock to go on a deep run. But when you have maybe the best player in the country, that should be enough to make it to the second weekend this time around, at least.