Oct 4, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Alabama Crimson offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin talks with quarterback Blake Sims (6) as head coach Nick Saban looks on during the second half against Mississippi Rebels at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
As we look ahead to the 2014 Iron Bowl, we take a look at the players the Auburn football team must defend in order to score an upset victory in Tuscaloosa.
New offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin – a polarizing figure in college football if ever there was one – came to Alabama after a short tenure as the head coach at USC and has helped ignite the roster’s offensive potential to new heights.
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The 2014 Alabama offense has an opportunity to go down as the greatest in school history. Through eleven games, the Tide has averaged 484.8 yards of total offense and a total of 5,333 for the season – more than any previous squad through this point of the season. Alabama has had more than 500 yards in six games this season, and has amassed 600-plus four times.
Currently, Alabama ranks second in the SEC and 20th in the nation in total offense behind a very balanced attack. The team’s rushing average is the fifth best in the league and 32nd best in the country at 204.9 yards per game, while the Tide’s 279.9 passing yards per game ranks third in the SEC and 25th nationally.
It’s impossible to deny the overall level of talent that exists on the Alabama roster. The Crimson Tide have scored 35 points per game this season, have averaged five yards per carry, 8.5 yards per pass, and 6.6 yards per play. They’re explosive, skilled, and the Auburn football defensive coaching staff will certainly have their hands full with the 10-1, top ranked Crimson Tide.
Next: Alabama Quarterbacks