Auburn Tigers vs Florida Gators Picks and Predictions February 8th 2025

No. 1 Auburn Looks to Extend SEC Win Streak Against No. 6 Florida

Auburn has been a dominant force in the SEC this season, maintaining a perfect conference record despite facing one of the most competitive leagues in the country. The top-ranked Tigers will look to continue their run when they host No. 6 Florida on Saturday in a high-stakes matchup between two of the conference’s elite teams.

Make Confident NCAAB Picks Today! Our NCAAB basketball expert picks are ready to guide you.

Auburn’s Unstoppable SEC Streak

The Tigers (21-1, 9-0 SEC) have been unscathed in conference play, extending their 15-game SEC winning streak dating back to last season, including their run in the conference tournament. Riding a 14-game overall winning streak, Auburn has proven to be the most complete team in the nation.

Led by Johni Broome, who averages 18.1 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game, Auburn has been an elite force on both ends of the floor. Broome, alongside 6-foot-11 Dylan Cardwell, gives the Tigers one of the most imposing frontcourts in the country. Their defensive presence is reflected in Auburn’s nation-leading 7.0 blocks per game.

But defense isn’t the only reason Auburn sits atop the rankings. The Tigers also boast the most efficient offense in the country, per KenPom.com, with their 130.5 rating being the highest in the site’s 24-year history.

“Our offensive efficiency numbers are what they are,” Auburn coach Bruce Pearl said. “We’ve got inside, outside, and the fact that we will guard. Those two things together, I think, are why we’re the No. 1 team in the country.”

Auburn’s perimeter attack, featuring Miles Kelly, Denver Jones, and Tahaad Pettiford, has been deadly from beyond the arc. Each has hit at least 41 three-pointers this season, shooting 40 percent or better from deep.

Even with all the success, Pearl remains cautious, knowing the SEC schedule is filled with challenges.

“We’re gonna get beat. It’s coming up,” Pearl said, adding that Florida is the “most physical team in our league.”

Florida’s Status Hinges on Walter Clayton Jr.’s Health

Florida (19-3, 6-3 SEC) has already proven it can take down a No. 1 team, stunning then-undefeated Tennessee 73-43 earlier this season. However, the Gators face a significant challenge heading into this game, as Walter Clayton Jr., their top scorer, remains questionable after missing Tuesday’s 86-75 win over Vanderbilt due to an ankle injury.

Clayton, who averages 17.4 points and 3.8 assists per game, was sorely missed in Florida’s 64-44 loss to Tennessee last weekend. The Gators were competitive early, leading 15-14 before Clayton rolled his ankle. From that point on, Tennessee outscored Florida 50-29, highlighting how crucial he is to the team’s success.

Head coach Todd Golden acknowledged his importance but emphasized the need to look at the bigger picture.

“Obviously, we would always prefer him out there,” Golden said. “But we have a lot of season left.”

In Clayton’s absence, Denzel Aberdeen stepped in and delivered an impressive performance against Vanderbilt, scoring 13 points with three assists and zero turnovers. Golden was pleased with his backup guard’s composure.

“He did an incredible job controlling the game,” Golden said.

Meanwhile, Will Richard rebounded from a season-low two-point performance against Tennessee, scoring 21 points on 8-of-11 shooting against Vanderbilt. His ability to contribute offensively will be critical if Clayton is unavailable.

Key Matchups and Factors to Watch

Johni Broome vs. Florida’s Interior Defense – Auburn’s star big man will be the focal point of Florida’s defensive game plan. Can the Gators contain him without getting into foul trouble?
Auburn’s Three-Point Efficiency vs. Florida’s Perimeter Defense – The Tigers’ sharpshooters have been lethal, and Florida must limit open looks to keep this game competitive.
Walter Clayton Jr.’s Availability – If Florida’s leading scorer can’t go, the Gators’ offense will need another big game from Richard and Aberdeen.
Physicality and Toughness – Pearl described Florida as the “most physical team in the SEC.” Can the Gators use that to their advantage, or will Auburn’s athleticism overwhelm them?

Can Florida Shock Another No. 1?

Auburn’s dominance this season has been unmatched, but Florida has already taken down a top-ranked SEC opponent once. If Clayton plays and the Gators bring their physical brand of basketball, they could pose a real threat to Auburn’s perfect conference record.

But with Auburn’s elite efficiency, rim protection, and home-court advantage, the Tigers are well-positioned to extend their winning streak and continue their march toward an SEC title.