Auburn Football: 5 reasons the Tigers will contend in 2019

4. Continuity on the offensive line

As 2018 played out, this offensive line got better and better. There were inconsistencies early, but by the end of the year, this group had shown marked improvement. They get to continue that growth, as all five starters return for 2019.

In the first six games of the season, the Tigers averaged 164 yards on the ground. Through the rest of the year, setting aside an anomaly 19 yard game against Texas A&M, Auburn averaged 196 yards per game.

Prince Tega Wanogho and Marquell Harrell were two who really improved last year, and they will anchor the left side of the line.

All five are seniors, as well. This is especially important, because they will be protecting a freshman quarterback. Whether it’s Joey Gatewood or Bo Nix that gets the nod, a freshman will be directing this offense. Not only will this unit need to protect him after the snap, but it will also be a huge asset for a green passer to have five veteran teammates right in front of him at all times.

To be successful in the SEC, it is mandatory to be strong on the line of scrimmage. The defensive side is the elite one for Auburn, but the offensive side caused some buzz in the spring, and will certainly be equipped to compete in the trenches against teams like Alabama and Georgia.