The 2010 Auburn football schedule marked a significant season for the Tigers as they chased national relevance under head coach Gene Chizik. This campaign blended high-profile SEC clashes with critical non-conference tests, setting the stage for a dramatic year-end run.
Below is a detailed overview of the 2010 slate, highlighting opponent, location, date, and result for quick reference throughout the season.
| Date | Opponent | Location | Result | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 4 | Washington State | Auburn, AL | W 41–10 | |
| September 11 | Louisiana–Monroe | Auburn, AL | W 49–3 | |
| September 25 | at No. 11 South Carolina | Columbia, SC | L 10–35 | |
| October 2 | at No. 2 Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | L 19–26 | |
| October 9 | Arkansas | Auburn, AL | W 20–16 | |
| October 16 | at No. 21 Mississippi State | Starkville, MS | W 62–7 | |
| October 23 | No. 23 LSU | Auburn, AL | W 24–17 | |
| October 30 | at No. 19 Florida | Gainesville, FL | W 38–35 | |
| November 6 | No. 13 Tennessee | Auburn, AL | W 41–18 | |
| November 11 | at No. 11 Georgia | Athens, GA | L 19–38 | |
| November 25 | at No. 22 Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | W 28–27 | |
| December 4 | vs. No. 10 South Carolina | Atlanta, GA | W 56–17 | |
| January 10, 2011 | vs. No. 1 Oregon | Phoenix, AZ | L 22–27 |
Season Opening Games and Early Non-Conference Play
Strong Start Against Washington State and Louisiana-Monroe
The 2010 campaign opened with convincing home victories that signaled offensive confidence. Auburn dominated Washington State 41–10 in front of a packed stadium, showcasing a balanced attack on both sides of the ball. The following week, the Tigers rolled past Louisiana–Monroe 49–3, demonstrating depth and control early in the season.
Road Test Against South Carolina and Building Momentum
After a bye week, the schedule delivered a major road test at No. 11 South Carolina. A tough second half by the Gamecocks led to a 35–10 result, exposing growing pains in Auburn's young secondary. Yet the Tigers used the setback as motivation heading into the heated rivalry stretch that followed.
Key SEC Matchups and Turning Points
The Alabama Rivalry and Defining Defensive Moments
Facing No. 2 Alabama at Tuscaloosa in the annual Iron Bowl was a pivotal moment. Despite a spirited effort, Auburn fell 26–19, with key defensive breakdowns in the red zone proving costly. This loss shifted momentum in the SEC West race and underscored the fine margins at the championship level.
Late Season Surge and SEC Championship Implications
Auburn responded with a commanding 62–7 demolition of Mississippi State at home and later secured a dramatic 38–35 road win against Florida. These victories, combined with a season-ending 28–27 triumph over Alabama in the Iron Bowl rematch, positioned the Tigers for a potential SEC Championship Game berth against South Carolina.
Postseason and National Championship Game
SEC Title Game and National Stage Performance
The victory over South Carolina sent Auburn to the SEC Championship Game, where they routed No. 10 South Carolina 56–17 to claim the conference title. The success propelled the Tigers into the BCS National Championship Game against Oregon, where a late deficit proved too much to overcome in a narrow 22–27 loss.
Season Recap and Takeaways
- Open with dominant wins to set an aggressive tone.
- Navigate tough SEC road tests, especially against Alabama and South Carolina.
- Leverage key victories over Florida and Mississippi State to stay in championship contention.
- Capture the SEC Championship with a statement performance.
- Close the season on a national stage with a competitive BCS National Championship appearance.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did Auburn perform in their non-conference games during the 2010 season?
Auburn went 3–0 in non-conference play, defeating Washington State, Louisiana–Monroe, and Arkansas before facing their first ranked opponent.
What were the key turning points in the 2010 Auburn football schedule?
Losses to Alabama and South Carolina stunted momentum, while the wins over Mississippi State and Florida proved crucial in keeping playoff and championship hopes alive.
Did Auburn secure a spot in the SEC Championship Game in 2010?
Yes, defeating South Carolina in their final regular-season game earned Auburn a spot in the SEC Championship Game, which they won decisively.
How did the national championship game conclude the 2010 schedule?
Auburn lost to Oregon 22–27 in the BCS National Championship Game, finishing the season with 14 wins and a second-place national ranking.