Auburn football: 3 bold predictions vs. Cal in Week 2

2. Payton Thorne throws for 300 yards and two-plus touchdowns

While Payton Thorne had to share playing time with two others in Week 1, he will be able to play most of this game until it gets out of hand in the fourth quarter.

Expect Thorne to go through a California defense like it is Swiss cheese. While the Golden Bears’ offense will be surprised by the speed of the Auburn defense, the surprise to the Auburn football faithful will be the way Payton can lead the offense against Cal, hitting several big pass plays.

Do not expect this to be a close game, Auburn should win by at least two scores.

1. Jarquez Hunter makes his season debut and gains 100 yards

The junior running back who rushed for 668 yards a season ago to go along with seven touchdowns will make his debut as the starter. Jarquez Hunter is one of the best running backs in the SEC, so having him running the rock makes this Auburn offense a lot better and Thorne’s job easier.

Expect the offensive line to bully the Golden Bears’ front seven as Hunter shows the nationwide audience why he is the lead back for the Tigers.

While Hunter averaged 6.4 yards a carry last year, do not be surprised if Hunter averages more like 9.0 yards per carry against the Cal defense. The only real question becomes will Thorne throw more touchdowns than Hunter rushes for in this road win?