Auburn remains undefeated in conference play after a 53-51 defensive battle with Tennessee. This game marks the Tiger's seventh-ranked win of the season— a program record. It was a struggle offensively for both teams in the first half with each squad connecting on just seven shots while combining to go 1-21 from long range.

The Vols likely would catapult onto the No. 1 seed line with a win at Auburn, but it would carry weight beyond the immediate effect on bracketology. A win at Auburn would give Tennessee two marquee road wins on its NCAA Tournament profile come Selection Sunday. The other was a 66-64 win at Illinois On dec. 14.

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