Auburn Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2019 season

Again on the hot seat, and now starting a freshman quarterback, how will Gus Malzahn’s Auburn football program navigate a difficult 2019 schedule?

It’s no secret that there is frustration and unpredictability on the plains. Gus Malzahn’s tenure has never gone too long without those two things. He’s won, and at times won big, but there has also been disappointment. His 2-4 record in bowls has been a big part of his problems, as most seasons have ended with a bitter taste in the mouth of Auburn fans.

That wasn’t the case last year, however. A dominant win over Purdue, in which Malzahn took back play-calling duties, was a glimpse into what the Auburn offense could be. However, despite finally finding a rhythm with Jarret Stidham in that Music City Bowl, 2019 will begin with a brand new passer.

Bo Nix accounted for 12,000 yards and 161 touchdowns at Pinson Valley HS, and is the son of former Auburn quarterback Patrick Nix. Both Joey Gatewood and Nix are freshmen, but the latter will have to grow up quickly after being named the starter.

They should be aided by a  typically productive Malzahn running game. There was no 1,000-yard rusher last season, which is an anomaly for a Malzahn offense, but that should change in 2019. JaTarvious Whitlow and Kam Martin will lead the charge, and they’ll run behind an improved offensive line.

On the outside, Eli Stove and Will Hastings should finally be healthy again. Hastings has been a reliable target, and Stove, the Niceville, Fla., product, is an electric athlete.

Kevin Steele’s defense faces very few questions. The front is elite, especially with Marlon Davidson and Derrick Brown holding off on the NFL and returning for their senior seasons. Nick Coe, the edge rusher, led the team in sacks a year ago.

The secondary is also experienced, as it returns all four starters. The senior safeties, Jeremiah Dinson and Daniel Thomas, are the anchors of the defensive backfield. Cornerback Noah Igbinoghene is entering his junior season, and he could be set for a breakout campaign.

Auburn will have to replace all three starting linebackers from 2018. KJ Britt is expected to take control in the middle, filling the role of Deshaun Davis from last season. Owen Pappoe is a five-star true freshman, and he could be thrust into a big role this year.