Here are five takeaways from Auburn’s 31-7 win over Samford:

  • Tigers sluggish throughout: It was the FCS Samford Bulldogs that had all the energy early, holding Auburn scoreless for nearly a quarter and a half. Gus Malzahn’s team didn’t appear to be too interested in playing with a certain rivalry game looming. Nevertheless, the Tigers got the win, but that’s not to say it wasn’t in question for a while.
  • Defensive improvements: There were some improvements on the defensive side of the football in the win. Kris Frost anchored more consistent play at the linebacker position, while the Tigers generated a better pass rush led by Montravius Adams. Ellis Johnson has some positive things to take away as Auburn begins preparations for Alabama.
  • Why all the penalties?: Auburn committed just 40 penalties in its first seven games combined, in which the Tigers went 6-1 and were ranked as high as No. 2. In its last four games, Auburn has committed 36 penalties — an average of nine per game — and the Tigers 2-2 in those games. Auburn committed eight penalties for 76 yards on Saturday night against Samford. That is an area that must be cleaned up before the Tigers head to Tuscaloosa.
  • Avoid slow starts: Slow starts have haunted Auburn this season, often leaving it having to play from behind. The same was true on Senior Day against the Bulldogs as 17 second quarter points gave the Tigers a 10-point lead at intermission. Auburn will not be able to survive a slow start inside Bryant-Denny Stadium next week.
  • Cameron Artis-Payne continues to impress: Artis-Payne is a patient back and has become the best back in the league, statistically, leading the SEC in rushing. The senior eclipsed the 1,400-yard barrier on Saturday night, moving into fifth place on the all-time single season rushing list at Auburn.