Auburn runs all over UA
FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Arkansas’ run defense will get its stiffest test yet Saturday against Auburn, which has gored the Razorbacks on the ground since Coach Gus Malzahn took over in 2013. Arkansas ranks No. 15 in the country, and fourth in the SEC, by allowing 87.3 rushing yards per game. The Razorbacks allow 2.82 yards per carry, which ranks 16th in the nation.
“When you look at their blueprint and what they’ve been for years, they want to run the football,” Arkansas Coach Chad Morris said. “They want to run the football and take their playaction shots when they see fit. They will come in with the intent to run the ball.”
Auburn has chewed Arkansas up on the ground while going 4-1 against the Hogs under Malzahn. The Tigers averaged 321 rushing yards per game in Malzahn’s matchups against Arkansas teams coached by Bret Bielema, and they piled up 543 in a 56-3 victory at Auburn in 2016.
“They want to run the ball of course, like every SEC team,” Arkansas defensive end Randy Ramsey said. “They want to establish the run first, then air it out.”
Auburn rushed for 130 yards on 38 carries, an average of 3.4 yards per attempt, in its 22-21 home loss to LSU last week.
“We all know we need to run the football better, and we’re committed to doing that,” Malzahn said. “There’s no doubt in my mind we’ll get better.”
Auburn has the nation’s No. 28 rushing offense, which averages 235 yards per game heading into Saturday’s contest.