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The 3-2-1: Three things learned, two questions, one prediction following Auburn's win over Arkansas

Justin Hokansonby:Justin Hokanson11/11/23

_JHokanson

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Auburn football is on a roll. Hugh Freeze and co. have reeled off three straight wins after losing four straight to start SEC play. Sure, Vanderbilt and Arkansas aren't going bowling, and Mississippi State has work to do, but considering how the the Cal and Texas A&M games went, this team has come a long, long way. Close losses to Georgia and Ole Miss provided hope, but a blowout win over Arkansas on the road signals some real momentum for the Tigers. For the third straight game, Auburn's offense averaged over 6.5 yards per play. That hasn't happened since the divisional championship season in 2017. The defense has forced 17 turnovers on the season, forced turnovers in 19 straight games dating back to last season, and hasn't given up more than two third-down conversions in four straight games. Payton Thorne is confident since being handed the keys to the offense. He's accounted for nine total touchdowns in his last four games. Jarquez Hunter is running patient and strong with three straight 100+ yard rushing games. Ja'Varrius Johnson, Keionte Scott and Jalen McLeod are healthy and making major impacts. There's plenty to like about how this team is playing and their commitment to the plan. With only New Mexico State on the schedule before the Iron Bowl, there's no reason we aren't looking at a 7-win Auburn team and a 10-win Alabama team inside Jordan-Hare Stadium in two weeks. Auburn could win eight games for the first time since the 2019 season and ruin Alabama's College Football Playoff hopes in the process. We're almost there. Until then, here's Three things learned, two questions and one prediction following Auburn's 38-point win at Arkansas...

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