Auburn football's opener vs Alabama A&M was no test, but here are our grades for the Tigers

AUBURN − In its first game of the 2024 season, Auburn football brought home the kind of report card you run home to bring to mom so she can hang it up on the fridge.

Almost everything that the Tigers tried to do in the 73-3 win over Alabama A&M, worked in their favor, especially on offense. While this test was more like one your teacher did to see what you already knew, the Tigers still shined on Saturday at Jordan Hare Stadium.

The test will increase going forward with ACC foe Cal coming to Jordan-Hare next and the always-tough SEC slate ahead.

Offense: A+

Is there a grade higher than an A+? Because this offense put on a clinic. Scoring 52 points in a game is outstanding, doing it in a half with Payton Thorne and the receivers shining should be a great sight for Auburn fans. The group tied the most points scored in a game since 2003 vs. Louisana-Monroe.

Defense: B

This is more due to the self-inflicted wounds that the Auburn defense gave itself − with three penalties in the first half: roughing the passer, personal foul and pass interference for 46 free yards. Lack of turnovers could be a point of concern too, but allowing just three points is always great, no matter the opponent.

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Special Teams: A+

Towns McGough earned his first start at kicker, coming in for Alex McPherson, who is still working his way back from health issues. McGough was perfect on kicks, including a 32-yard field goal. A blocked punt recovered for a touchdown is always helpful to the cause.

Coaching: A

Hugh Freeze couldn't let Alabama A&M hang around at all, and he never did. An almost perfect first half for the Tigers should be as much on the coaches as on the players.

Overall: A

Anything less than this would be worrisome against Alabama A&M. T he Tigers had a job to do and left no doubt it was done. The tests will only get harder from here.

This article originally appeared on The Gadsden Times: Auburn football's opener vs Alabama A&M was no test, but here are our grades for the Tigers