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With the amount of explosive playmakers on either side, Saturday’s showdown between Auburn and No. 17 Texas A&M could very well turn into a shootout.
But Tigers coach Gus Malzahn was high on both defenses during his portion of Wednesday’s SEC coaches teleconference.
“They can rush the passer,” Malzahn said of the Aggies’ defense. “I haven’t seen many people block (defensive end) Myles Garrett, and (Daeshon Hall) is very long. It makes it a challenge, and we have to be aware of both.”
He praised his own defense for its leadership and depth, citing junior defensive lineman Carl Lawson as a player who has really stepped up. Auburn will get a boost on that side of the ball with graduate transfer linebacker T.J. Neal, who will return after Malzahn decided not to dress him out last week against Arkansas State.
Malzahn also spoke briefly about Texas A&M’s offense:
“They’re loaded at wide receiver. (Quarterback) Trevor Knight is a veteran guy that has played well in big games. (Receiver) Christian Kirk concerns me, especially in the return game.”
On the offensive line:
“They improved quite a bit from Game 1. We expected that with some new starters. They played at a high level and will continue to do so.”
On JUCO transfer quarterbacks:
“We have had success with that in that (in the past). John Franklin III is still learning the offense. He’s a hard worker and he’ll get it. He’s been accepted right off the bat. This is a true team.”
Marcus covers SEC football for Saturday Down South.
