Simply put, as tough as it would be, it meant that, should Auburn win out, sweeping both No. 12 Tennessee and A&M, the Tigers would win the regular season conference crown outright. And even should Auburn drop one to either the Volunteers or Aggies, it was still guaranteed at least a share of the title.
Instead, after a disastrous Sunday — and with Florida finishing up against Arkansas and their 1-20 SEC record next weekend — the Tigers find their chances of claiming any piece of the regular season championship all but extinguished.
It was hard to believe — and watch — as Auburn (45-7) was run-ruled by Tennessee (38-12) in 4.