Nov 1, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Ole Miss Rebels quarterback Bo Wallace (14) is tackled by Auburn Tigers linebacker Cassanova McKinzy (8) during the second quarter at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports
Despite what their 8-5 record might indicate, the Auburn Tigers were in position to win the SEC before their defense fell apart, costing them any shot at league title in 2014.
Just how bad was the defense? In the last seven games, minus the Samford "contest" that ended in a 31-7 Tiger victory, Auburn gave up a staggering 38.3 points per game.
Obviously, you can't win in the SEC with your defense surrendering nearly 40 points per league contest and the Tigers offense can only do so much. But it's not all bad for the defense, as eight starters return for a unit that only surrendered an average of 14 points per game in three games against Arkansas, Kansas State and LSU before the defense's collapse.
With the new faces on the coaching staff and the talent base expanding by way of recruiting and the return of Freshmen All-American Carl Lawson, a defensive improvement seems likely. They had better do so quickly, as the Tigers may need to lean of the defense in the opener against Louisville and offensive-minded Bobby Petrino.
Is the defense up to the task? There new hype video suggests the answer is yes.
The video, titled "FastPhysical," puts emphasis on the defense's new attitude on The Plains. Enjoy:
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