TODAY’S GAME

Dayton at Auburn, 8:30 p.m., SEC Network, AM 1290, News 95.7 WHIO ent packs and flavors Tuesday before Dayton’s game against Detroit Mercy.

“I don’t chew gum during the game,” forward Obi Toppin said. “I chew before the game, and when I do, I mix the mint and the strawberry.”

Of course, gum is an easy thing to pack for trips, so it can’t explain Dayton’s success at home over the years or its struggles on the road. The Flyers were 2-13 away from UD Arena last season and 12-4 at home. This season, they’re 4-1 at home and 1-2 on a neutral court.

The first and only true road game on the nonconference schedule is today at 8:30 p.m. when Dayton plays the No. 8 Auburn Tigers (7-1) in Alabama. Dayton lost to No. 4 Virginia 65-59 on a neutral court in the Battle 4 Atlantis, but this might be the most difficult game of the season because it takes place on Auburn’s home court.

“I’m really excited,” forward Ryan Mikesell said. “It’s going to be a fun environment.”