The Tigers were competitive in the first half, and largely moved the ball. Penalties were again an issue. Some fair, some not, but ultimately it wouldn't make a difference
What started with some hope ultimately fell into despair as Ole Miss pulled away in the 2nd half with a final score of 45-15. The Tigers were competitive in the first half, and largely moved the ball. Penalties were again an issue. Some fair, some not, but ultimately it wouldn't make a difference as the 2nd half exposed Auburn's poor depth at some positions, poor execution, and inability to contain a mobile quarterback.
Trinidad Chambliss was the difference maker. Chambliss turned third downs into touchdowns, and Auburn had no answer. We knew it would be a key to the game whether or not Auburn could contain the Rebel QB. Two plays in particular were to blame for a majority of Chambliss' 65 rushing yards. Additionally he threw for 263 yards and 2 touchdowns on 22/34 attempts. Ole Miss' leading rusher had 71 yards. Auburn needed to force Ole Miss to run, but was unable to defend the secondary efficiently. Injuries in the defensive backfield piled up, and the young guys who had to play were not ready. Auburn's defense played hard and kept us in the game for the first half. The individual efforts on defense are impressive every game. Champ Anthony and Bryce Deas tied for the lead in total tackles (8) and solo tackles (5). Eric Winters, Elijah Melendez, and Kaleb Harris had big time contributions as well.
Third down is where this game was won and lost. Ole Miss converted on 13/16 on 3rd downs. Auburn converted on 7/14 attempts. Costly penalties, and turnovers were to blame. Additionally, the defense not being able to get off the field in the 2nd half is a game breaker.
The questions up front will remain. Our concerns about the offensive line protecting Byrum Brown won't go away this week. We allowed 10 tackles for loss and 4 sacks (and an intentional grounding call). The quarterback got off to a really good start and looked like he was in rhythm for the first time since the Georgia victory, but I have noticed he has never successfully executed a zone read. He keeps the ball when he should hand it off, and he hands it off every time he should keep it. That was on display again today. Auburn fans know what it should look like. Cam Newton, and Nick Marshall ran a master class in Gus Malzahn's offense. Byrum doesn't always look like he cares a whole lot about the outcome of the game.
Next week Auburn will host Arkansas at 11:45 AM CT on SEC Network.