Auburn isn't going to sneak up and surprise anyone this year, not after last season when the Tigers jumped out to a 21-2 start and earned a share of the Southeastern Conference championship.
Bruce Pearl enters his fifth season with No.11 Auburn coming off one of his most satisfying seasons leading the Tigers to a 26-8 overall record and 13-5 conference mark.
The Tigers return most of their depth as they prepare for Tuesday's opener against South Alabama at Auburn Arena. Six players with extensive experience are back and two others -- Samir Doughty and Danjel Purifoy -- will regain their eligibility and join a team that relishes an up-tempo style.