(AP) - The Auburn Tigers had better get their act together quickly.

The 23rd-ranked Tigers hardly looked ready for primetime in the Southeastern Conference in a season-opening survival game against Utah State. Now No. 20 Mississippi State is set to come calling and a trip to Clemson awaits after that.

Having to score two touchdowns in the final 2:07 to beat the Aggies didn't exactly send a powerful statement to the rest of the country for the defending national champions.

The Tigers did escape, 42-38.

Auburn coach Gene Chizik reserved most of his praise for special teams, which produced a touchdown and a successful onside kick, after the less-than-dazzling debut. But he says "that performance on offense and defense won't win us many games."