Auburn Football: Five reasons why Tigers will win 2017 national title

2. Kamryn Pettway

Kerryon Johnson is a nice option as a change-of-pace, but Auburn needs Kamryn Pettway to stay healthy and be the team’s primary back. Pettway is one of the best running backs in the nation when healthy.

Pettway didn’t play in the team’s loss to Clemson, didn’t play in the team’s loss to Georgia and looked less than 100 percent against Alabama. He had a great game in a loss to Texas A&M but had little support and had three different quarterbacks against Oklahoma.

When Pettway ran effectively, Auburn went 6-1 in 2016. Of course, he received 30 carries against Ole Miss. A good bet says he won’t receive that many carries in one game with new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey and that should better preserve his health.

Pettway will play a key role if Auburn is to beat heavyweights like Clemson, LSU, Alabama and Georgia. Yes, Auburn is expected to pass the ball much more this season, but having an effective back who is difficult to bring down will make the offense even better.