After a slow start defensively, the Auburn Tigers are currently sitting up on the Georgia Bulldogs as the half rolls around in Sanford Stadium.
Alex Golesh’s squad is leading the No. 1 ranked Bulldogs 17-14 after coming back from down 14-0 in the first quarter, having a lot be executed since that time.
The Tigers have held Georgia to 2-for-5 on third downs and held it to just 58 yards through the air since the first two drives of the game, when it allowed 138 combined.
With the lead in hand and Auburn set to get the ball to begin the second half, here are three big things defining the first half so far in Athens.
Offense is playing nicely
One of the biggest criticisms from many through the first five games of the season has been that the offense has gotten off to slow starts and the run game has not gotten going. While there was a punt on the first drive of the game for the Tigers, the results since then have been pleasing for what Joel Gordon wants.
Auburn has 231 total yards of offense, with the rushing attack having 122 of those yards. Byrum Brown holds 73 of those yards, many of which have been the result of him creating time after getting pressured in the pocket. Meanwhile, Jeremiah Cobb looks more comfortable, and while he only has 38 on the day, things seem to be moving more efficiently for him.
End of half defense stood out
After the Tigers went up 17-14 with a 49-yard field goal from Alex McPherson, the Bulldogs had an opportunity to tie or take the lead. However, DJ Durkin’s defense stood up and held its own. Gunner Stockton put on a long pass of 31 yards on the first play of the ensuing drive, but on the second play, AnQuon Fegans reeled in an interception on the sideline, preventing further momentum.
Then, after Auburn had to punt once again and give the ball back with about 20 seconds left and no timeouts for Georgia, Darrion Smith and Jared Smith swarmed Stockton for a sack to end the half, meaning the Tigers have a chance to extend the lead further straight out of the locker room.
Time of possession
The time of possession battle for Auburn has been an uphill battle all season with the fast pace at which it plays. However, through 30 minutes in Athens, the Tigers are winning that battle. Auburn has had the ball for 3:22 longer in this game, allowing it to tire the Bulldogs defense out and make an impression, something it has struggled with in recent weeks, by a large margin.
Auburn Undercover is an independent Auburn sports media company covering Auburn athletics, recruiting and insider news.
