The keys to victory for Auburn

The Iron kicks today at 2:30pm on CBS and the Tigers are big underdogs, but this is the Iron Bowl and you can expect to see the un-expected. On paper Auburn can’t win, but there’s a couple of things Auburn can do to stay in this game and give their team a chance to win.

Key 1: It’s all about 3rd downs
Both LSU and Texas A&M outplayed Alabama on 3rd down, and if Auburn wants to stay in this game they will have to win the 3rd down battle. Unfortunately for the Tigers they have not done a good job on 3rd downs this season.

Key 2: Play fast, fast, and fast
Nick Saban and Kirby Smart love to sub in players on defensive and all of their sub groups have different strengths. If Alabama thinks it going to be a running play they have defensive units built to stop the run, but if they fail to stop the running play and the offense is playing no huddle hurry up much like Texas A&M then the Tide is stuck with a defensive built to stop the run versus an offense who is now calling a passing play. Auburn will need to pull out the Gus Malzahn playbook and bring back the no huddle and really push the tempo. If Auburn can play no huddle successfully they will give their offense a chance at creating some mismatches.

Key 3: Play mistake free ball
It’s easier said than done, but if the Tigers turn the ball over or have costly drive stalling penalties it will take them out of the game faster than anything. Auburn has to protect the ball and play smart to have a chance. Really there is no room for error.

Alabama Tonight Sports Blogger - Patrick Pierce @Patrickp13