Auburn Defense Developing into Elite Group They Were Projected to Be

While the Auburn Tigers' defense remains a dominant group overall, their ability to stop the run enjoys elite status. Run-stopping is not glamorous, requiring physical play, instinct, timing, and aggressiveness. Headlines will ignore the dirty work because there are very few splash plays unless they're in space. Yet, neutralizing half the offense goes far to ensure success. 

Historical Success

According to this, the current Tigers' run defense is generational, with 673 rushing yards in eight games dating back to the 1988 season. At this pace, Auburn will surrender 1,009 yards. In retrospect, that success makes the offense look even more inept. 

Yet, considering all the talented defenders who left The Plains in the last 37 years, this run defense can finish the season as one of the very best. According to College Football Reference, seven players have three or more tackles for loss while five others can claim at least two. 

Working Together

While defensive coordinator DJ Durkin deserves credit for assembling a group of athletes at all three levels attentive to the run game, his position coaches deliver the message. It starts upfront with defensive line coach Vontrell King-Williams and edge coach Roc Bellantoni. While the edges and tackles possess different responsibilities and skill sets, you do see overlap.

 For example, standout Keldric Faulk will play on the edge to start a series, kicking inside on third down. For King-Williams, the ability to use Faulk up and down his line makes Auburn a threat. 26 of the team's 58 tackles for loss belong to defensive linemen. Auburn traditionally requires its defensive linemen to do more than absorb blockers, prioritizing activity and movement over immovable bulk.