Auburn’s offense certainly hasn’t disappointed through three games into the season.
In fact, it’s been the bright spot of the already 3-0 Tigers’ squad.
The Tigers have averaged 415.7 yards of total offense per game, including 242 rushing yards. That ranks No. 16 nationally and third in the SEC. It’s been a healthy mix of Jeremiah Cobb and Jackson Arnold on the ground thus far. Simply put, no team on the other side has had an answer for Auburn’s ground attack.
As a result, Auburn simply hasn’t had to air the ball out that much. Obviously, head coach Hugh Freeze opted to toss it around a bit more against Ball State and South Alabama than he did against Baylor in Week 1. But the downfield – deep balls and explosive plays – haven’t been a part of the Tigers’ offense thus far, and Auburn sits at 77th in the nation with plays gaining 20+ yards.
But Saturday brings a different test that the Tigers haven’t had to match up against yet.
Oklahoma’s defense, led by third-year head coach Brent Venables, has been one of the nation’s best thus far. The Sooners have allowed just 6.3 points and 181 yards per game, and they rank second nationally in pass defense, giving up only 84.7 passing yards per game.
“First, I need some Pepto and some Tums because your stomach starts turning because of their first three games; they’ve just dominated. Allowed one touchdown, and it was really on a bust. They’re physical and they’re fast,” Freeze told ‘The Dari Nowkhah Show.’ “So it’s a great challenge. I do think they’re one of the better defenses I’ve seen in the last few years.”
Obviously, the biggest storyline heading into this one is Arnold’s return to Norman after his departure this offseason. Venables knows Arnold like the back of his hand and will certainly try to make life hectic for him in the pocket.
According to Pro Football Focus, Arnold has posted an 83.1 offensive grade throughout the first three games of the season. He has posted a 91.1 grade when kept clean in the pocket and an 88.8 grade when not blitzed. However, he has posted a 59.9 grade when blitzed and a 33.5 grade when under pressure.
And Oklahoma has a pressure rate of 49.6, which is fifth best in college football, according to PFF.
Auburn has the weapons outside to pose a problem for this Sooners’ defense. All accounts point toward Damari Alston suiting up and giving it a go after being held out the last two weeks. Will Auburn be able to establish a run game, much like it did against Baylor, in the early goings to help alleviate some pressure on Arnold?
Only time will tell. But in the meantime, Freeze and the Tigers’ staff believe that Arnold will approach this like any other game and handle himself like the professional he’s established himself as since his arrival on the Plains.
“He’s very mature, and he doesn’t give any credit to any noise or talk. He’s a pro. We all understand people might cheer for him, boo him, whatever it is. I think he’s mentally strong and is more about preparing,” said Freeze. “My advice to him is to just keep the focus on our team.”
Auburn and Oklahoma kick off in Norman at 2:30 p.m. CT on ABC.
Follow The War Rapport:
