Film Room: 5 big reasons why Auburn's rushing attack has improved in 2020
Over the last four games, Auburn has looked like its old self again on the ground — and the credit should go to more than just one or two players.
A lot of the preseason, in-season and — most likely — postseason focus on Auburn’s 2020 offense has been geared toward the passing attack. Gus Malzahn hired a pass-minded offensive coordinator, and the Tigers returned both a starting quarterback and their three top receivers.
While that half of the offense has had its highs and lows this season, that narrative can’t overshadow the work that has been done in the running game.
In 2018, Auburn averaged just 3.69 yards per carry against SEC opponents. In 2019, that number rose to 4.34. Now, in 2020, Auburn is up to 4.67 yards per carry — and that mark includes two rough weeks for the rushing attack against Kentucky and Georgia.
Since Auburn committed to running the ball more in a Week 3 win over Arkansas, the Tigers have averaged 5.35 rushing yards per touch and posted four straight 200-yard outings on the ground. According to SEC StatCat, Auburn has an explosive run play rate of 21.69 perce…