Auburn vs. Louisville
The Auburn Tigers are going to have their hands full in Atlanta. Louisville has a strong running game and they're really strong on defense against the run. Bobby Patrino always has his team ready, and you can expect nothing less when he meets the #6 ranked Auburn Tigers.
Patrino will have to stop Jeremy Johnson. He opened with a good first half one year ago. I truly believe now that the full time position is his he'll be ready to lead the team. Auburn has a plethora of running backs to turn to. Louisville is strong against the run, but I see Auburn finding success on the ground.
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Both teams defenses will probably stand up early. Malzahn will want to establish a running game. First, to see if he can against a strong Louisville defensive front. I do think they'll move it a little early on Louisville. When the run opens up the pass, and it will, Auburn will pull away and I see that being right after halftime.
Johnson has an strong and accurate deep ball. There will be more passes deep this year than last, but I'm sure Malzahn will still stay true to the short passing game. Especially if the run isn't opening things up. I think Roc Thomas will find success this season. It might take some time but the running attack will become a weapon for the Tigers. A good strong test like Louisville now will do them a world of good later.
The improvements on defense will be noticeable. Will Muschamp has enough talent to turn it around immediately. The defense will be strong over the course of the season, but I think Louisville is going to find it tough right out of the gate. Carl Lawson will be a huge factor if he's back to what he was before the injury. Louisville has a strong running game, and it will be a great opening test for Auburn.
Auburn is Too Deep for Louisville:
It will be tough for Auburn early, but right before halftime they'll have found some success. 14-7 Auburn at the half.
In the second half Auburn will have them guessing. The run had been more effective than Louisville hoped. The short and long passes open up a little more each play
Both teams do more scoring in the 2nd half. Auburn gets another 21 points and Louisville another 10.
Auburn 35
Louisville 17
