Auburn University just made a pretty bold move for its student-athletes. They’re shaking up the 2026 football schedule in a way that’s sure to get people talking.
The Auburn vs. Baylor game, which was supposed to happen at Jordan-Hare Stadium, is now set for Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. It’s all part of the Aflac Kickoff Game on September 5, 2026.
Why the change? Well, it’s about giving players more exposure and better financial opportunities. The college football world is changing fast, and Auburn seems determined not to be left behind.
Auburn’s Strategic Shift to Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Moving the Baylor game to a neutral site is a calculated risk for Auburn, but it could pay off big. The Aflac Kickoff series is a major event, and playing in Atlanta should draw plenty of national attention.
It’s a chance for Auburn’s players to shine in front of a massive audience. That kind of spotlight can do wonders for a young athlete’s personal brand.
The Role of NIL in College Football
Now that NIL rules are in play, college athletes can finally make money from their name, image, and likeness. That changes everything.
Auburn’s athletic director, John Cohen, says the exposure from playing a Power Four opponent on a national stage isn’t just good for the team’s reputation—it could also mean real financial gains for the players. It’s a new world, and Auburn wants to be ahead of the curve.
Peach Bowl, Inc. and the New Model for Neutral-Site Games
David Epps from Peach Bowl, Inc. calls this setup a new template for how neutral-site games might work in the future. With NIL shaking things up, schools and event organizers have to get creative.
This collaboration between Auburn and Peach Bowl, Inc. is all about making sure everyone—players, schools, and sponsors—walks away happy. If it works, you can bet others will follow.
Historical Context and Previous Appearances
This isn’t Auburn’s first rodeo in the Aflac Kickoff series. They’ve been there before, in 2012, 2015, and 2018.
Those games brought plenty of exposure and tough competition. Auburn clearly sees value in returning to Atlanta for another shot at the spotlight.
Impact on Auburn’s 2026 Home Schedule
There is a trade-off, though. Auburn’s home schedule in 2026 takes a bit of a hit, dropping to six games: Southern Miss, Jacksonville State, Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Florida, and LSU.
Still, the chance to play in a high-profile neutral-site game seems worth it. Sometimes you have to give a little to get a lot.
Auburn vs. Baylor: A Brief History
The Auburn-Baylor rivalry isn’t new. These teams first met back in 1954 and have faced off five times so far.
Right now, the series is tied 2-2-1, with Auburn grabbing a 38-24 win in Waco earlier this season. That history just adds a little extra spice to the 2026 matchup—should be a fun one to watch.
Conclusion
Auburn’s moving their 2026 game against Baylor to Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium. It’s a bold choice, honestly, and it says a lot about how college football keeps changing.
With NIL regulations shaking things up, teaming up with Peach Bowl, Inc. gives Auburn’s student-athletes a shot at more exposure. Maybe even a bigger payday. It’s hard not to wonder how much this will shift the landscape for other schools, too.
If you want to dive deeper, check out the full article from the National Football Post here.
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