It was the Tigers' 23rd overall season and they competed as a member of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAA).

The team was led by head coach Mike Donahue, in his 10th year, and played their home games at Drake Field in Auburn, Alabama.

Auburn's strong defense, which held opponents scoreless all season, helped the team garner a retroactive national title by James Howell's computer rating system.

In contrast to the prior season, the 20–0 loss was seen as a moral victory and sign of progress for the Gators.

John Sutton left the game feeling poorly, and further examination revealed a weak heart.

"[21] In final game of the season, Auburn defeated the Carlisle Indians led by Pete Calac and coached by Pop Warner.