That's a wild take considering Indiana returns the core of their offensive line that allowed the fewest sacks in the Big Ten last season. Their defense lost stars but still brings back a secondary that ranked 8th nationally in passing yards allowed per game. Auburn's own rebuild is promising, but dismissing a defending champion because of draft losses ignores their proven development system. The Tigers' 7-6 record last year, with a 3-5 conference mark, doesn't exactly scream "expose the champs." Hugh Freeze is building something, but Indiana's program depth and that championship culture are real factors. Their quarterback may be new, but he's operating behind that elite protection. Auburn's path to contending relies on improving a red zone touchdown rate that was below 60% last fall. Until the Tigers consistently win SEC games, calling out a team that just won it all seems premature. The pressure is on Auburn to prove they can handle a loaded schedule, not on Indiana to justify their title.