With March on the horizon, one of the most entertaining events in all sports will be taking place in the coming weeks, March Madness! Though we won’t be breaking down the NCAA tournament bracket just yet, there’s still some very important match-ups to be played, and some that could very well make a huge impact on how the seeding will be displayed once all is said and done. With this in mind, we’ll be looking at one match-up in particular that could shift things for either team, and potentially eliminate their ranking in the top 25. The 5th ranked team in the nation, Tennessee, will be looking to defend their home court as they welcome the 14th ranked team in the nation, Auburn, in a very important conference me match-up. Not only are these teams both ranked in the top 5 of their conference, this could very well eliminate Auburn from holding onto their ranking. Let’s take a look at what these two conference rivals have been up to, and who should walk away with the win in this SEC battle.

Tennessee vs Auburn Preview and Analysis
Tennessee is a team we’ve heard about all year long, especially more so now than ever since they’ve found their way into the top 5. Funny enough, they also have played the 5th hardest schedule in the nation, so don’t let their six losses fool you. The Volunteers also hold one of the best home records this season, where they hold a 12-1 record on their home court, with their only loss coming against Purdue, who’s currently ahead of Tennessee. Ranking 17th in the nation in assists, the heart of the team starts with Zeigler, who’s their guard, averaging 5.5 assists per game. With the home court advantage of the ball movement the Volunteers have, there’s no surprise they’ll be the favourite, depending on their home court.

Auburn is a tournament team we’ve seen in the past handful of years, and it comes as no surprise that they’re ranked in the top 25 once again. Holding a similar record of 20-6, Auburn has played the 19th hardest schedule in the nation, so it’s hard to overlook them even though they’re on the road. Not only does Auburn rank 24th in point per game, but they’re also 10th in assists per game, surpassing their opponent in that category. Auburn is a team that plays fast, and gets the whole team involved while doing so, and if they’re hitting their shots you’ll find behind quickly. This will be the first meeting between these two this season, though we will note Auburn defeated Tennessee last year in their last meeting. Though the rosters look a little different, this could be a lot closer than people think.

Both of these teams are playing for a lot at stake, more importantly position in their conference playoffs. With all this said, it’s hard to deny Tennessee is one of the best teams at home, while Auburn struggles on the road with a 3-4 home/loss record. This game could come down to the wire, but in the end, look for Tennessee to do what they do best, close out games.

Prediction: Tennessee