Auburn Football: 3 Takeaways from win over Mississippi State

2. The Auburn defense is legit

For all of the talk about Gus Malzahn firing Rhett Lashley and making Chip Lindsey his Offensive Coordinator, Gus’ defense is what looks more inspiring for their chance at an Iron Bowl win during rivalry week in 2017. The Auburn defense held the high-powered Clemson Tigers offense to 14 points including limiting Kelly Bryant to 6.2 yards per passing attempt and 3.1 yards per rushing attempt earlier in the season.

The S&P+ has the Auburn defense ranked fifth in the country. They’re led by linebacker Tre’ Williams. Williams, from Mobile, came into 2017 with 10 starts and 36 games played. He’s leading the team in tackles with including 2.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks. The other leading tackler is also a Williams. Darryl Williams, from Hoover, is a 245 pound spark plug of a linebacker with 16 tackles heading into tonight’s game.

The only thing missing from the Auburn defense is racking up turnovers which will help the Tiger offense get into scoring position more easily and create more points and confidence for Stidham in Mazlahn’s offense. The Tigers only have two interceptions heading into the night and picked off Fitzgerald twice. With the offense coming in at 48th in the S&P+ it’s a good thing Kevin Steele’s defense is playing so well.