Projection and game notes: No. 2 Auburn vs. Missouri

AUBURN -- And so it begins. If No. 2 Auburn (12-1) is going to make sure its fantastic non-conference record and start to the season isn't wasted, succeeding during SEC play is paramount. The challenge of winning a third regular season title under Bruce Pearl starts on Saturday, as Missouri comes into Neville Arena with an 11-2 record and a "hungry" team, as Pearl referred to Dennis Gates bunch. The game will tip at 3 pm CT and be televised on the SEC Network.