According to defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson, third down defense and improving individual consistency are areas of focus for Auburn's defense moving forward.
"We're having opportunities to get off the field that we're missing," Johnson said. "We give up one touchdown drive the whole night, but there are just too many plays in between we aren't clean on."
Auburn defense is rated No. 68 and has allowed more than 340 yards of total offense in every SEC game this season.
Despite this stat, Johnson said he has been impressed by the Tigers' ability to limit the opponent's scoring opportunities.
"When their backs are against the wall, they've played with a lot of poise and toughness," Johnson said.
Johnson also said the pace and tempo of Auburn's offense may put its own defense in difficult positions.
"One time we had a three-and-out touchdown, maybe even two of those in the first half," Johnson said. "Those are good, but as far as making adjustments on the sideline, it makes it difficult."
Johnson said the team's conditioning has allowed the defense to survive opposing team's extended offensive drives.
"So far, it has not been an issue and as long as long as you are scoring points it does not matter," Johnson said.
The injury bug has taken its toll on Auburn this season, but Johnson was hopeful the defense wouldn't lose anyone new heading into the Tennessee game.
"Knock on wood, but that's about the first time we've gotten through a game and not had somebody who won't play next week," Johnson said.
According to Johnson, Nosa Eguae's transition from defensive end to defensive tackle has been critical in adding versatility to the defensive line. Johnson was pleased with the way Eguae and senior Kenneth Carter can play on the inside and outside of the defensive line.
"He's performing and getting better production so he earned that starting spot," Johnson said. "He's just been a lot more consistent than everyone else. It's not that the others have been playing poorly. Assignment-wise, he's always there where he's supposed to be."
Along the defensive line, Johnson was pleased with the way junior defensive tackle Angelo Blackson performed against Arkansas.
"One guy that didn't show up real big in the stats but I thought played extremely physical up front was Blackson," Johnson said. "He forced the play to end up where it was with his penetration and disruption. He didn't have a lot of sexy stats, but he played really well."
No. 9 Auburn's game against Tennessee on Saturday will be the Tigers' first noon kickoff of the season.
Junior cornerback Jonathan Mincy laughed when asked if it will cause any problems.
"We just have to wake up a little bit earlier," Mincy said.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
