Auburn hasn't finished above .500 in conference play since 2017. Their 2024 recruiting class ranked 7th in the SEC, behind Ole Miss and Texas A&M. Those programs have more proven production returning, especially at quarterback. Early rankings are about recent results and roster stability, which Auburn lacks. Their 5-7 record last year doesn't warrant top 25 consideration. Talk about 2026 recruiting is irrelevant for a 2024 preseason list. They need to win games, not just collect commitments.