Consistent pressure on opposing QBs goes hand-in-hand with successful Auburn football seasons. Can DC Ron Roberts and his staff put us back into winning ways?
Over the last 15 years, Auburn’s most successful seasons have come when the defense could get consistent pressure on the QB. Nick Fairley wrecked SEC offenses from the interior DL in 2010. Carl Lawson and Dee Ford saved a mediocre defense with their pressure in 2017. Jeff Holland ate QBs for lunch in 2017, and the tandem of Derek Brown and Marlon Davidson kept QBs running for their lives in 2019.
Outside of those seasons? There’s usually been a lack of pressure on opposing QBs and Auburn has struggled to produce sacks. After a very strong showing for pressure and tackles for loss in 2021, Auburn regressed to 90th in the country and 10th in the SEC in tackles for loss. That’s not the showing Auburn
They’ve got to get back to 30+ (sacks) on the year. I would like to see that number in the high 30s if they’re going to make a run at anything.
– Mike G on The Morning Drop
Auburn has retooled the defensive line completely with a good mix of experienced transfers, returning 2nd year players, and incoming high school talent. The pieces are in place for a renaissance on the defensive front. Can Ron Roberts and Jeremy Garrett get Auburn back to being active behind the line of scrimmage?