His only loss this season was suffered at the hands of his former team, but Nick Saban took a nice dig at LSU on Monday as he stated Auburn has the best defensive front that Alabama will face all year.
After listing its playmakers such as Derrick Brown and Marlon Davidson, Saban also dissected what the Tide must do on defense to frustrate Bo Nix at quarterback.
The freshman has had a good year with 20 touchdowns (six rushing); however, he also accounts for six interceptions. When teams have gotten consistent pressure to him, Nix tends to make mistakes.
Under the leadership of Gus Malzahn, Auburn’s offense totals 32.7 points a game.
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Saban mentioned how the Tide will work on how to defend the Tigers, upon it coming out of its sugar huddle.
Auburn will look to run the football with its cast of running backs – headlined by JaTarvious Whitlow.
The sophomore leads the team with nine scores 625 yards rushing.
Malzahn also wants to get the ball to Anthony Schwartz in space.
He has three touchdowns and does damage as a runner and receiver.
For Alabama, Mac Jones carries the biggest task. In his first start in the Iron Bowl, the Tide is confident about what he can do in leading the team. Saban said the most difficult thing for him will be handling the noise inside Jordan-Hare Stadium. He has 566 passing yards with six touchdowns in his two starts. Saban knows that Auburn is a physical team; however, he also knows a trip to the College Football Playoff is in reach – should it handle the Tigers on the road.
In terms of injuries, Saban said Henry Ruggs III (ribs) and Phidarian Mathis will be worked back into practice.
As for DJ Dale (knee) and Raekwon Davis (ankle), both are listed as ‘day-to-day.’
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
