Auburn's Future Potential Highlighted in Win Over Mercer

Auburn's win over Mercer is no surprise, but the way the Tigers' won showed its future potential under the next head coach.

The Auburn Tigers remain in contention for a bowl game after the win over Mercer. | Jake Crandall/ Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Auburn Tigers enter the Iron Bowl after a strong 62-17 win over Mercer. Critics may note Mercer's FCS status, but the Tigers can only face the opponents scheduled.

As such, the talent level of the opponent takes a backseat to the need for a convincing win. This game provided clear evidence of Auburn's strengths while surfacing new questions for the program moving forward.

Market Value

Freshman Deuce Knight exceeded expectations with 401 yards of total offense and four rushing touchdowns. His breakout raised questions about previous coaching decisions, as he had not played all season. Knight’s performance suggests he is highly valuable, but it also brings challenges: other programs could pursue him, especially with coaching changes and his eligibility for a redshirt.

Deuce on the Loose ⚡️🔥@DeuceKnight | #WarEagle🦅 pic.twitter.com/thcs7mUlSl

— Auburn Football (@AuburnFootball) November 22, 2025

Auburn must consider how to retain him, as well as what ties or motivations remain for Knight now that the coach who recruited him is gone. The athlete will need to choose what matters more for the rest of his college career: money or familiarity

Awakening

Before Saturday, Malcolm Simmons’s season was clouded by uncertainty due to an open investigation, making expectations unclear. Nevertheless, Simmons played each week and contributed.

Against Mercer, his 149 yards and a 91-yard touchdown were a significant boost. Now, with Alabama up next and a bowl bid on the line, Auburn will rely on Simmons to play an even bigger part. The Crimson Tide will focus on Cam Coleman, presenting the receiver with a golden opportunity to shine.

Deuce Knight is putting on a show #auburnfootball @thewarrapport pic.twitter.com/iJcDwQKypJ

— Mike G. (@mikegittens) November 22, 2025

Momentum Builder

Throughout the season, freshman linebacker Elijah Melendez has quietly but consistently made key plays. For instance, he intercepted Braden Atkinson and returned it 41 yards for a touchdown. This shows his potential to be a valuable pass defender and highlights his knack for stepping up in critical moments.

Melendez may not impress with any particular physical trait, but instincts are the measurable qualities that defensive coordinators covet.

Elijah Melendez has been such a great pickup. True Freshman. #auburnfootball @thewarrapport pic.twitter.com/cdWAaNSP0f

— Mike G. (@mikegittens) November 22, 2025

Bottom Line

Auburn dominated a team they were expected to beat, but the more important takeaway is what it suggests for their future. With many freshmen and sophomores playing key roles, the foundation looks promising.

Combined with the arrival of a new coach and highly touted recruits, this win reflects Auburn’s potential moving forward, highlighting that program alignment matters as much as the score. In a year filled with painful losses and frustrating moments, Auburn still controls its own destiny regarding a bowl game.