This is an opinion column.

The search for meaning in September visits from paycheck opponents takes work.

Ball State, bless their hearts, isn’t in the same football neighborhood as Auburn so what can we really learn from the 42-3 whipping Saturday night?

Let’s try a few.

First, the fact that this game can be characterized as an afterthought is a step forward. Remember the early September game with New Mexico last year? The Tigers led just 17-13 in the second half before eventually pulling away, 45-19.

But last year’s equivalent of Saturday was a struggle for far too long.

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