The Auburn Tigers represent one of the most passionate and successful athletic programs in college sports. Known for their fierce Auburn Tigers football rivalries and competitive Auburn Tigers men's basketball performances, Auburn University has built a tradition of excellence. Their athletes and fans proudly carry the spirit of determination that defines every Tiger team.
College Sports Established
1921
Location
Auburn, Alabama
College Name
Auburn University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
1932 – Present / Southeastern Conference
1921 – 1932 / Southern Conference
Nickname
Tigers - The Auburn Tigers are among the most recognizable college sports teams in the United States. Their nickname is instantly recognizable, but few people know its origins. The story behind how this iconic team got its name is a fascinating one that all sports fans should learn about!
Auburn's nickname dates back to 1892 when an alumnus and former football player, George Petrie, returned to his alma mater as head coach. He was determined to make a lasting impression on the university and wanted something special for his team’s identity – so he chose “Tigers” as their mascot!
Auburn Tigers Origin
Several sources had inspired Petrie: firstly, Harvard University, which was known at that time as “the Crimson Tide”; secondly, Princeton University, whose teams were called "Tigers"; thirdly, William Tecumseh Sherman's famous march through Georgia, during which he declared war upon any animal or creature resembling a tiger; and finally by an old poem written in 1856 titled "The Tiger" which spoke of courage and strength - perfect attributes for any athletic team!
Petrie ensured every detail was perfect - even down to designing uniforms with orange stripes like those found on tigers living in India (which also happened to be close enough in color scheme with school colors). From then onwards, anyone associated with Auburn Athletics has proudly worn these distinctive uniforms while rooting for their beloved Tigers both on-and-off campus.
Today we can see evidence of this rich heritage everywhere: whether it be students wearing orange gear around campus or alumni attending games dressed up like tigers themselves – they will always support their adopted mascot no matter what side they may find themselves cheering for come game day! So next time you hear someone mention the mighty Auburn Tigers, remember where it all began – thanks mainly due to Mr. George Petrie, who helped create such an enduring legacy over 125 years ago now... Go AU!!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1892
- 1932
- 1984
- 1985
- 2002
- 2010
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Auburn plays its first intercollegiate football game
In 1892: Auburn plays its first intercollegiate football game against Georgia and wins 10-0 -
Auburn becomes one of the founding members of the Southeastern Conference (SEC)
In 1932: Auburn becomes one of the founding members of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and wins its first SEC title in 1957 -
Auburn’s Charles Barkley
Barkley played collegiate basketball at Auburn for three seasons. Although he struggled to control his weight, he excelled as a player and led the SEC in rebounding each year. He became a popular crowd-pleaser, exciting the fans with dunks and blocked shots that belied his lack of height and overweight frame. It was not uncommon to see the hefty Barkley ... -
Auburn Tigers’ Bo Jackson
During his time playing for the Auburn Tigers football team, he ran for 4,303 career yards, which was the fourth-best performance in Southeastern Conference (SEC) history. Jackson finished his career with an average of 6.6 yards per carry, which set the SEC record (minimum 400 rushes). In 1982, Jackson’s freshman year, Auburn played Boston College in the Tangerine Bowl, where ... -
women’s soccer team and wins the SEC championship
1994: Auburn fields its first women’s soccer team and wins the SEC championship in 2002 -
Auburn wins its second SEC title in football
In 2010: Auburn wins its second SEC title in football in six years and defeats Oregon in the BCS Championship Game to claim its sixth national championship, recognized by the BCS. Quarterback Cam Newton becomes the school’s third Heisman Trophy winner and also wins the Maxwell
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Auburn Tigers History
The Auburn Tigers have long been recognized as one of the most successful and passionate programs in NCAA sports history. From the early years of Auburn Tigers football to the rise of Auburn Tigers men's basketball, the university’s athletic legacy stands as a symbol of excellence and determination. Auburn’s fierce rivalries, especially with Alabama and LSU, have defined generations of thrilling competition.
The story of Auburn Tigers football began in 1892, when the team played its first official season. Under head coach John Heisman, the Tigers gained national attention between 1895 and 1899 with an impressive undefeated streak. The foundation for Auburn’s winning tradition was built early, establishing the program as a powerhouse in the South. Over the next decades, Auburn continued to grow under the leadership of legendary coaches and dedicated athletes.
Under head coach Mike Donahue, Auburn captured six conference titles between 1903 and 1913, marking a golden era for the program. The team’s dominance continued under Ralph "Shug" Jordan, who took over in 1951. In 1957, Jordan led the Auburn Tigers football team to their first National Championship with a win over Ohio State University in what many called “The Game of the Century.” Auburn’s powerful defense and disciplined play defined the era and set the stage for future success.
Pat Dye’s era (1981–1992) brought renewed glory, including three straight SEC Championships from 1983 to 1985. Under Dye, Auburn became a consistent national contender, producing outstanding players who would later excel in professional football. Bo Jackson, one of the most iconic athletes in college football history, won the Heisman Trophy in 1985, further elevating the reputation of Auburn Tigers football across the country.
In the modern era, Gene Chizik revived the program’s dominance by leading Auburn to a BCS National Championship victory in 2010, defeating the Oregon Ducks 22–19. That season was highlighted by the exceptional play of quarterback Cam Newton, who became one of Auburn’s most celebrated athletes after winning the Heisman Trophy.
Tigers Achievements
While football has always been Auburn’s pride, Auburn Tigers men’s basketball has risen significantly in recent years. Under head coach Bruce Pearl, the basketball program reached new heights, including a historic Final Four appearance in 2019. The team’s growing success has made basketball an integral part of Auburn’s sports culture, with fans rallying behind the Tigers across every court and field.
Beyond football and basketball, Auburn has excelled in baseball, track and field, gymnastics, and swimming, earning numerous SEC and national titles. The Auburn Tigers continue to produce world-class athletes and teams that represent the school’s core values of integrity, competition, and spirit.
The achievements of Auburn Tigers football and Auburn Tigers men’s basketball showcase the university’s ongoing pursuit of greatness. With multiple national titles, Heisman winners, and unforgettable championship moments, Auburn’s athletic legacy stands among the best in collegiate sports. For fans everywhere, the words “War Eagle” will forever echo as a proud symbol of Auburn pride and excellence.
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