The Auburn Tigers (5-2) return to action against the Indiana Hoosiers (7-1) Saturday afternoon at State Farm Arena in Atlanta as part of Holiday Hoopsgiving.
Auburn is looking to bounce back after falling 69-64 to the Appalachian State Mountaineers on the road Sunday afternoon. Indiana comes into this game as the winner of its last four contests.
What are the biggest things to pay attention to during the game?
Can Auburn out-rebound Indiana?
Rebounding has been a strength for Auburn so far this season.
The Tigers are averaging 41.3 rebounds per game to the Hoosiers' 33.8. Johni Broome is Auburn's leading rebounder, and he averages 9.1 per game. Indiana's leading rebounder, Kel'el Ware, averages 9.4 per game.
This game could end up being decided on the glass. Auburn will need to show up in that category or coming away as a winner will be difficult.
Will Auburn be able to hit 3-point shots?
Three-point shooting has been a struggle for Auburn so far this season.
Auburn has shot 29.6% from beyond the arch this season. The Appalachian State game was particularly bad as the Tigers went 3-27 or 11.1% from deep.
Indiana has not been strong from 3-point range either so far this season, which could be beneficial for Auburn.
Which Indiana players does Auburn need to be the most aware of?
Indiana has two guys that Auburn needs to pay especially close attention to: Malik Reneau and Kel'el Ware.
Reneau is a 6-foot-9 sophomore forward. He is averaging 14.8 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists so far this season. He is shooting 61.7% from the field.
Ware is a 7-foot sophomore center. He is leading Indiana in scoring with 17.1 points per game. He is also averaging 9.4 rebounds per game and is shooting 63.9% from the field.
Will Auburn play a complete game?
Auburn has struggled to put two halves together so far this season.
Auburn will need to play a complete game if it wants to be successful. Indiana is capable of exploiting a sloppy start in either half.
Playing a complete game and taking care of the ball are the two most important factors that could lead to an Auburn victory.
Tipoff is set for 1 p.m. CT, and ESPN2 will carry the broadcast.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email daniel.locke@1819news.com.
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