Auburn Football Schedule 2013: A Season To Remember
Hey guys! Let's dive into the Auburn football schedule 2013, a season that every Auburn Tigers fan remembers vividly. This wasn't just any year; it was a rollercoaster of emotions, nail-biting finishes, and ultimately, a journey to the national championship game. Auburn's 2013 season is etched in college football history, and for good reason. From improbable comebacks to unforgettable plays, the Auburn football schedule 2013 provided a series of moments that will be talked about for generations. So buckle up as we relive each game, highlighting the key moments and the overall impact on Auburn's remarkable run.
Pre-Season Expectations
Heading into the 2013 season, expectations were relatively modest for the Auburn Tigers. After a disappointing 3-9 record in 2012, which included an 0-8 mark in SEC play, the program was looking for a fresh start under new head coach Gus Malzahn. Malzahn, who had previously served as Auburn's offensive coordinator during their 2010 national championship season, brought a sense of optimism and a high-octane offensive philosophy. However, few analysts predicted a dramatic turnaround. Most fans were simply hoping for a more competitive team that could show signs of improvement. The Auburn football schedule 2013 was seen as a challenging one, with several tough SEC matchups on the horizon. The primary goal was to rebuild the program and establish a foundation for future success. While a return to national prominence seemed like a distant dream, the seeds of what would become a magical season were about to be sown. The team was hungry, the coaching staff was determined, and the fans were eager to see if Malzahn could work his magic once again on the Plains. The pre-season buzz was more about hope than expectation, making the subsequent achievements all the more extraordinary.
Non-Conference Games
Auburn kicked off the 2013 season with a series of non-conference games that allowed them to build momentum and confidence. The season opener against Washington State saw the Tigers secure a 31-24 victory, providing an early glimpse of the offensive firepower Malzahn was bringing back to the Plains. This win was crucial in setting a positive tone and demonstrating that the team was heading in the right direction. The following week, Auburn faced Arkansas State, resulting in a convincing 38-9 win, further solidifying their progress. These early victories were essential for instilling belief within the team and among the fans. While these games might not have been against top-tier opponents, they served as valuable opportunities to fine-tune their strategies and build team chemistry. The Auburn football schedule 2013 was strategically designed to allow the team to ease into the tougher SEC matchups, and these non-conference games played a vital role in that process. By the time they entered conference play, the Tigers had a solid foundation and a growing sense of confidence, which would prove invaluable as the season progressed.
Key SEC Matchups
The heart of the Auburn football schedule 2013 was undoubtedly their SEC matchups, which provided some of the most thrilling and memorable moments of the season. One game that stands out is the "Miracle at Jordan-Hare" against Georgia. With seconds left on the clock and trailing by one point, Auburn quarterback Nick Marshall launched a desperation pass that was tipped into the hands of Ricardo Louis, who raced into the end zone for a game-winning touchdown. This improbable victory sent shockwaves through the college football world and cemented Auburn's status as a team to be reckoned with. Another unforgettable game was the Iron Bowl against Alabama. With the score tied and one second remaining, Alabama attempted a long field goal that fell short, landing in the hands of Auburn's Chris Davis, who returned it 109 yards for a game-winning touchdown as time expired. This play, known as the "Kick Six," is one of the most iconic moments in college football history and propelled Auburn to the SEC Championship Game. These SEC battles were not just wins; they were statements of intent, showcasing Auburn's resilience, determination, and ability to defy the odds. The Auburn football schedule 2013 was filled with these high-stakes contests, each contributing to the team's remarkable journey.
The Iron Bowl
No discussion of the Auburn football schedule 2013 can be complete without a detailed look at the Iron Bowl. This game, played on November 30, 2013, is arguably the most memorable in the rivalry's history. With Alabama ranked No. 1 in the nation and Auburn looking to continue their improbable run, the stakes were incredibly high. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows throughout the contest. In the final minute, Alabama drove down the field and appeared poised to score a go-ahead touchdown. However, the Auburn defense held strong, forcing Alabama to attempt a 57-yard field goal with one second remaining. The kick fell short, and Chris Davis caught the ball deep in the end zone. What happened next is legendary: Davis sprinted down the sideline, weaving through would-be tacklers, and returned the kick 109 yards for a game-winning touchdown. The stadium erupted in pandemonium as Auburn fans stormed the field to celebrate one of the most improbable victories in college football history. The "Kick Six" not only secured a win over their arch-rivals but also propelled Auburn to the SEC Championship Game and kept their national championship hopes alive. This moment encapsulated the magic and excitement of the Auburn football schedule 2013 and will forever be etched in the memories of Auburn fans.
SEC Championship
Following their dramatic win in the Iron Bowl, Auburn advanced to the SEC Championship Game to face the Missouri Tigers. In a high-scoring affair, Auburn's offense proved too much for Missouri to handle. The Tigers secured a 59-42 victory, earning them the SEC title and a spot in the BCS National Championship Game. This win was a testament to Auburn's remarkable turnaround and solidified their status as one of the top teams in the nation. The Auburn football schedule 2013 had been a gauntlet of tough opponents, but Auburn had risen to the challenge, showcasing their resilience, determination, and offensive firepower. The SEC Championship victory was the culmination of their hard work and a defining moment in their season. It was a moment of jubilation for Auburn fans, who had witnessed their team go from worst to first in a single year. The victory set the stage for a highly anticipated national championship showdown and marked the pinnacle of Auburn's improbable journey.
BCS National Championship Game
The Auburn football schedule 2013 culminated in a BCS National Championship Game appearance against the Florida State Seminoles. In a thrilling contest that went down to the wire, Auburn ultimately fell short, losing 34-31. Despite the loss, Auburn's performance in the championship game was a testament to their incredible season. They fought valiantly against a talented Florida State team and showcased the offensive prowess that had defined their season. While the defeat was undoubtedly disappointing, it did not diminish the accomplishments of the team. The Auburn football schedule 2013 had been a journey filled with unforgettable moments, improbable victories, and a remarkable turnaround. The national championship appearance was a fitting end to a season that exceeded all expectations. Auburn fans can look back on the 2013 season with pride, knowing that their team had achieved something truly special.
Impact and Legacy
The Auburn football schedule 2013 and the team's performance that year had a lasting impact on the Auburn football program and college football as a whole. The season demonstrated the power of a strong coaching staff, a resilient team, and a never-say-die attitude. Gus Malzahn's leadership and offensive genius were instrumental in Auburn's turnaround, and the players' unwavering determination was evident in every game. The "Miracle at Jordan-Hare" and the "Kick Six" became instant classics, forever etched in college football lore. The Auburn football schedule 2013 served as a reminder that anything is possible in college football and that even the most improbable dreams can come true. The season also helped to revitalize the Auburn football program, attracting top recruits and reigniting the passion of the fan base. The legacy of the 2013 Auburn Tigers is one of resilience, determination, and unforgettable moments that will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans.
In conclusion, the Auburn football schedule 2013 was more than just a series of games; it was a journey filled with incredible moments, improbable victories, and a remarkable turnaround. From the "Miracle at Jordan-Hare" to the "Kick Six," the season provided a series of unforgettable plays that will be talked about for generations. While the national championship game ended in defeat, the accomplishments of the 2013 Auburn Tigers should not be overlooked. They demonstrated the power of a strong coaching staff, a resilient team, and a never-say-die attitude. The Auburn football schedule 2013 will forever be remembered as one of the most exciting and memorable seasons in college football history.
