With a game standing in the way of a bowl bid, the Auburn Tigers must find a way to contain Alabama’s offense. Despite three losses, the Crimson Tide pose a serious threat with the ball. Essentially, their offense dictates whether they will win Saturday’s game.

Certainly, anyone with functioning synapses fully understands how potentially explosive Alabama’s offense can be. They also know Oklahoma held them to just three points last week. Offensive inconsistency is a big part of their season with first three defeats in 15 years.

Now how will Auburn attack them? Yes, attack. When playing an offense that can score anywhere on the field, passivity leads to losses. As a result, the Tigers will have to impose their will on Alabama.

Milroe problem

Without a doubt, Jalen Milroe presents the best combination of arm talent and athleticism the Tigers will see all season. Milroe has the arm strength to make any throw on the route tree. 2024 saw a regression from Milroe, who finished third in Heisman voting last year.

Although he completes passes at about the same rate, his interceptions have increased significantly while his touchdowns have dropped. Milroe had 23 touchdown passes against six interceptions last season, but only has 15 touchdowns against 9 interceptions in 2024.

All the skills are there, but teams are looking to put more pressure on him. However, this does not always mean bags, but disposable products and interceptions.

The Tigers average more than 2.5 sacks per game. Within that, he will tuck the ball in and run up the field. Milroe’s 17 rushing touchdowns more than make up for his passing struggles this year. This is where Jalen McLeod’s presence will send him in the opposite direction.

He won’t tack near Keldric Faulk, so Demarcus Riddick should pile on the tackles. Hugh Freeze discussed Milroe during the press briefing.

“You look at the good. That’s what he’s capable of,” Freeze said of Milroe. “I hope we get the lesser version. In a match like this, I think – I don’t know him personally, but everything you see, he’s made of good things and he competes at a very high level in some of the biggest matches.

“I think he would be determined to bounce back. So, I think we have to plan to do his best. I have no doubt they will use him as a runner. That’s when they were the most dangerous and we must have a plan for this.

Choking Ryan Williams

Although this incarnation of the Crimson Tide does not have an overwhelming number of elites, Ryan Williams ensures that his team includes at least one. Ironically, during Thanksgiving week, the freshman brings a cornucopia of gifts to the game.

First, look at its balance. After the catch, dangerously close to the sidelines, Williams finds a way to walk the tightrope while shaking off defenders on his way to the end zone. Then he’ll point the ball through traffic, hauling in big catch after big catch.

Above all, Williams easily separates himself from opposing corners. Auburn should rush him and roll a safety his way. Make every hold a contested hold.

Conclusion

Alabama’s offense, despite lacking depth and a quarterback lacking passing confidence, can still score points by the bushel. Under these circumstances, Auburn fared favorably.

From pass rushing to run stopping and coverage, the Tigers don’t seem overwhelmed at any of the three levels. Pounding Ryan Williams after the catch and putting pressure on Jalen Milroe will see the outcome end in success for the visiting Tigers.