We weren't sure about last season. We honestly thought Tuberville would pull a Tuberville and win the game.
This season, we couldn't beat your team if Ingram played center and Tiffin played nose tackle. In fact, I think Saban should take a trip to Costa Rica for Thanksgiving. He needs a week off, don't ya think?
Last season, there was no doubt AU would lose. Losing your OC halfway through the season, and seeing the chaos thereafter, only sealed the deal. In some ways, this year's AU team shows some of the same characteristics. However, at least AU has things "intact", compared to last season. Everything is headed in one direction. They actually have an offense.....well, somewhat. Here are some interesting stats:
Auburn has given up an average of 169.7 rushing yards per game, but 190.7 rushing yards per game in SEC play.
Auburn's offense has averaged 48.75 points to nonconference opponents, while only scoring an average of 25.6 ppg in SEC play.
Alabama is averaging 225.6 rushing yards per game on the season. In SEC play, that number is 195.1 rushing yards per game.
Alabama has surrendered an average of
9.9 ppg to opponents on the season, and
9.1 ppg to SEC teams.
We have faced a better offense than AU's against Arkansas, and shut it down. The best defense AU has faced was ranked #19th in the country, and AU won. But then again, they lost against the #28, #32, #54, and #95 ranked defenses. The best offense AU has won against was against Ole Miss, who is ranked #42 in total offense. Alabama is ranked #30 in total offense. Last season, Alabama's offense was ranked as #52, and the defense was ranked #3 in the country.
I think this game comes down to matchups. And I honestly can't see any advantages for AU there. The closest AU comes here is at RB. Overall, I think Alabama has the better backfield with an Ingram/Richardson tandom.