The roar of the crowd, the squeak of sneakers, and the palpable tension in the air – it can only mean one thing: March Madness is upon us! The 2025 NCAA Tournament has officially tipped off, bringing with it the annual dose of buzzer-beaters, bracket busters, and Cinderella stories we all crave. As the first round gets underway, all eyes are on the South Region, where a David-versus-Goliath matchup is set to unfold between the Auburn Tigers and the Alabama State Hornets.
The Auburn Tigers enter the tournament as a force to be reckoned with. Their stellar 28-5 record throughout the 2024-25 season not only secured them the top spot in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC) but also earned them the coveted No. 1 overall seed in the entire March Madness bracket. This prestigious ranking speaks volumes about Auburn’s dominance on the court, their consistent performance against formidable opponents, and their unwavering determination to make a deep run in the tournament.
On the other side of the court, the Alabama State Hornets represent a classic underdog story. Finishing fourth in the Southwest Atlantic Conference (SWAC) with a 20-15 record, their journey to the Big Dance was paved with grit and determination. A thrilling victory in their conference tournament punched their ticket to the NCAA Tournament, earning them a No. 16 seed and the daunting task of facing the top-ranked Auburn Tigers. Before even reaching this stage, Alabama State had to overcome the St. Francis Red Flash in the First Four, proving their resilience and their ability to perform under pressure.
The statistical contrast between the two teams is stark. Auburn boasts an impressive resume backed by advanced metrics. They currently hold the fourth-best ranking in the KenPom rankings, a testament to their overall efficiency and balanced play. Their offensive prowess is particularly noteworthy, ranking as the second-best offense in the nation, capable of scoring at will and overwhelming opponents with their diverse attack. On the defensive end, they are equally formidable, holding the 12th-best defensive ranking, showcasing their ability to stifle opponents and control the tempo of the game.
In contrast, Alabama State faces an uphill battle, ranked 273rd overall in the KenPom rankings. Their offensive struggles are evident in their 270th-ranked offense, indicating challenges in generating consistent scoring opportunities. Defensively, they rank 256th, highlighting the need for improved cohesion and execution on that side of the ball. While statistics don’t tell the whole story, they paint a clear picture of the challenges Alabama State will face against a powerhouse like Auburn.
The looming question on everyone’s mind is: can Alabama State pull off the improbable upset? History is filled with instances of No. 16 seeds shocking the world and dethroning No. 1 seeds. The allure of March Madness lies in its unpredictability, its ability to defy expectations, and its knack for creating moments that live on in basketball lore.
Experts from across the nation have weighed in on this intriguing matchup, offering their insights and predictions. USA TODAY’s comprehensive March Madness bracket predictions provide a detailed analysis of every game, offering fans a glimpse into the potential pathways to the Final Four. Complementing these bracket predictions are bold predictions and upset picks, highlighting potential surprises and dark horse contenders who could disrupt the established order.
So, what are the expert opinions on the Auburn vs. Alabama State showdown? The consensus seems to lean heavily in favor of Auburn. The overwhelming sentiment suggests a clean sweep, with experts largely dismissing the possibility of an upset. Craig Meyer, a seasoned basketball analyst, is confidently backing Auburn to not only win but also to cover the substantial 32.5-point spread. This suggests a belief that Auburn will dominate the game from start to finish, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive tenacity.
However, not all experts are completely aligned. Montgomery Advertiser’s Adam Cole, while still predicting an Auburn victory, is taking a different angle, suggesting that Alabama State will manage to keep the game within the spread. This implies a belief in Alabama State’s ability to fight hard, execute their game plan effectively, and prevent Auburn from completely running away with the game. Interestingly, both Craig Meyer and Adam Cole agree on one aspect: the game total will go over 149.5 points, suggesting a high-scoring affair with both teams contributing to the offensive output.
For those eager to witness the action firsthand, the Auburn vs. Alabama State game will be broadcast on Fubo. As of Wednesday, March 19, the odds are being provided by BetMGM, allowing fans to engage with the game in a more interactive way.
As the tournament unfolds, it’s important to remember that March Madness is more than just wins and losses. It’s about the passion, the camaraderie, the shared experience of witnessing incredible moments on the court. It’s about the Cinderella stories, the underdog victories, and the unwavering belief that anything is possible. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the NCAA Tournament offers something for everyone. So, buckle up, fill out your brackets, and prepare for a wild ride filled with unforgettable moments. And, as always, be mindful that media outlets may earn an affiliate fee by using links to recommended products and services.
