Brief Summary
This Southeastern 16 episode previews the Auburn vs. Texas A&M game, highlighting key matchups and potential game-deciding factors. The discussion centers on Auburn's need to establish their running game, Texas A&M's pass-rushing ability, and the importance of quarterback protection. The hosts also touch on Auburn's turnover efficiency, Texas A&M's offensive strengths, and potential special teams advantages. Ultimately, one host picks Auburn against the spread, while the other favors Texas A&M in a close, one-possession game.
- Auburn's running game and Texas A&M's pass rush are key factors.
- Quarterback protection and turnover margin will be crucial.
- Special teams, particularly Auburn's field goal struggles, could play a role.
Intro
Chris Lee introduces the preview of the Auburn vs. Texas A&M game in College Station, noting the game time and TV channel. He mentions that FanDuel has Texas A&M favored by 6.5 points with an over/under of 52.5, while his computer model predicts a 5.5-point victory for Texas A&M. Jay emphasizes the game's importance for both teams, with Texas A&M aiming to remain unbeaten and Auburn needing a win after a tough loss to Oklahoma.
Keys to Victory for Auburn
Jay discusses the controversial officiating in Auburn's loss to Oklahoma, but emphasizes Oklahoma's ability to make crucial plays. He stresses the importance of pressuring Auburn's quarterback, Jackson Arnold, to disrupt their offense. Chris highlights Auburn's strong running game, averaging 6.1 yards per rush, and suggests this could be a key to victory against a Texas A&M defense that has struggled against the run at times. He notes Texas A&M's improving run defense, particularly against Notre Dame.
Quarterback Protection and Turnovers
Chris points out Auburn's pass-rushing struggles in the previous game and notes that Texas A&M's quarterback, Marcel Reed, has only been sacked once this season, indicating their ability to get the ball out quickly. He emphasizes the importance of quarterback protection and pressuring the opposing quarterback. Chris also highlights Auburn's improved ball security, with only one turnover all season, contrasting this with Texas A&M's defense, which hasn't been particularly disruptive in forcing turnovers. He suggests that running back Jeremiah Cobb could be a key player for Auburn. Jay mentions the pressure on Auburn's coach, Hugh Freeze, to achieve at least eight wins this season.
Texas A&M's Offensive Strengths
Chris shifts the focus to Texas A&M's offense, noting Marcel Reed's strong passing performance in the win against Notre Dame. He observes that Texas A&M's running game hasn't been as effective as expected, possibly due to injuries on the offensive line. Chris contrasts this with Auburn's strong run defense, allowing only 2.6 yards per rush. He points out that Texas A&M is currently having more success in the passing game, which aligns with the relative weakness of Auburn's defense.
Additional Storylines and Special Teams
Jay notes that Auburn faced strong passing attacks in previous games against Baylor and Oklahoma, and their performance against those teams is relevant. He emphasizes the importance of running back LeVeeon Moss to alleviate pressure on Marcel Reed. Chris brings up Auburn's field goal struggles, highlighting that Alex McFerson is not at 100% and may not have range beyond 40 yards, giving Texas A&M an advantage in special teams.
Picks and Predictions
The hosts transition to making their picks for the game. Before they do, they promote Game Time Sidekicks, Rockform, and Hovie Drygoods, offering discount codes to viewers. Jay announces Auburn as the "Bad Beat team of the week" and provides a discount code for Hovie Drygoods. Ultimately, Jay picks Auburn against the spread, while Chris favors Texas A&M, anticipating a close, one-possession game. Chris emphasizes the potential impact of Jeremiah Cobb's performance on Auburn's chances of winning.
