After a 1-2 start to the season, many counted Auburn out of the mix in the SEC. Gus Malzahn’s seat was the hottest it’s been during his time as the Tigers’ head coach, and the program seemed headed in the wrong direction.

Auburn then went 7-2 down the stretch and was announced as the Sugar Bowl’s SEC representative on Sunday afternoon. The Tigers’ season will culminate with a matchup against Oklahoma on Jan. 2 at 8:30 p.m. ET.

Due to the slow start, Auburn is understandably excited about its bowl destination. Malzahn and athletic director Jay Jacobs relayed that excitement in statements released by the school.

“We are thrilled about the opportunity to play in the historic Sugar Bowl against a great Oklahoma team,” Malzahn said. “I’m excited for our players, coaches and the Auburn family to experience on of the best bowl games in all of college football. We can’t wait for this opportunity and look forward to our trip to New Orleans.”

“We are excited to accept an invitation to play in the Sugar Bowl,” Jacobs said. “This will be an outstanding match-up for our team and a great bowl trip for the Auburn family. I’m especially happy for our seniors, who will have a chance to play in a big-time game environment one more time as Auburn Tigers. Playing in the Sugar Bowl in 1983 was a highlight for me and our team, so I know from experience it’s a special experience. The hospitality is second to none in New Orleans, and I look forward to enjoying it with our loyal fans.