A heavy heat hovered over central Texas on a late August night in the Lone Star State. The steamy conditions did not stifle the vitality of Baylor nation for the home opener. Auburn’s visit marked the first appearance of an SEC team in Waco since 1995. The Bears are favored to be a Big 12 contender this year, while the Tigers have hopes on improving from last year’s losing season.
Auburn took a 17-3 lead in the second quarter, and despite Baylor’s success in cutting that lead to 7, QB Jeremiah Cobb and the Tigers continued to stretch it back to 14. The backbreaking moment came late in the third when Rayshawn Pleasant returned a kickoff 98 yards to keep the Bears out of striking distance. Despite three touchdown tosses from Sawyer Robertson, Baylor never could get over the hump and lost 38-24.
The green and gold in Waco have much to look forward to. This was just not their night. The fans packed McLane Stadium and everything from the Baylor Line to repeated hollers of “Sic ‘Em Bears!” provided proof that this fan base is ready for a new season. Auburn looks to be more formidable, and as they prep for their home opener next week, there looks to be a lot of “War Eagle!” to be shouted this season.
