AUBURN — For the fifth time this season, Auburn football has spent the week gearing up to face a ranked opponent, heading to No. 16 Vanderbilt on Saturday, Nov. 8.

On this occasion, the Tigers also have, "a million distractions going on," interim head coach DJ Durkin said Thursday, Nov. 6, days removed from Hugh Freeze 's firing. Those distractions have been part of the interim's message to his team. 'MIXED EMOTIONS': What Auburn football players react to Hugh Freeze firing

"That’s been our challenge to them, is to just say, ‘Hey man, block out the distractions, lock in on what we’re doing to prepare for what is a really good opponent at their place, and focus on each other. You’re part of something bigger than yourself and focus on the team,'" he said.

Durkin said he's seen po

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