An Alabama Football plan to attack Auburn's strength

A standard theme for Alabama Football offenses under Nick Saban was to take what the opposing defense gives. Such scheming is standard fare for most college football coaches. On Saturday afternoon, Auburn is expected to play to its defensive strength and sell out, as Oklahoma did to shut down the Alabama running game.

The downside of that Auburn defensive strategy is being more vulnerable against the pass. The Auburn secondary is not a bad one, but the strength of the Auburn defense is its defensive front. In addition to Ryan Williams, Alabama has wide receiver and tight end pass-catching threats that have been little utilized this season. If Auburn schemes to shut down the Tide rushing attack, plus double Ryan Williams, Jalen Milroe should have at least one open receiver on every play.

If Milroe has time to locate the open guy or guys, and if he makes accurate throws, attacking the Tigers through the air could produce scoring drives. Some Crimson Tide fans might be uncomfortable with dual 'ifs' in the preceding sentence. There is reason for concern about Milroe's inconsistencies.

Alabama Football attacking the Auburn Defense

A counter perspective is Alabama's offensive success depends on effective rushing yards. In the Crimson Tide's three losses, net rushing yards were 84 yards, or less. In Alabama's five wins over Power Four opponents, the Crimson Tide averaged 208 rushing yards. In those five wins, Jalen Milroe accounted for an average of 93 of the 208 yards. The problem for Alabama is that when dependence on Milroe's running falters, the Crimson Tide offense sputters. It has happened four times; the three losses and the close win over South Carolina.

One strategy against Auburn would be establishing a running attack against the Tigers' stubborn defensive front. More carries from Alabama running backs, possibly Kendrick Law and fewer zone-read keeps by Milroe might work. Passing on early downs to set up the running game might also loosen the Auburn defense. After scoring only three points against Oklahoma, Alabama football fans are hoping for offensive adjustments. If Alabama decides to attack Auburn's defensive strength, too much Jalen Milroe could play right into Auburn's defensive game plan.

One more point about the Iron Bowl: Auburn's offense has produced 973 yards in its last two games. The Auburn offense is not the train wreck it was as the Tigers limped to a 3-6 record. Payton Thorne is playing well, and Jarquez Hunter might be the SEC's top running back.

Kane Wommack's defense has steadily improved. But the Crimson Tide will likely need at least 20-plus points to win the Iron Bowl.

Note: Various team and player stats provided by Sports Reference