Here are some quick thoughts on Auburn’s XX-X win over Samford.

What it means: The Tigers were sluggish through most of the game, but managed to get the win. Auburn now can put this win behind it and focus on cross-state rival Alabama.

What I liked: The play of the defensive line. Montravius Adams made his presence felt, harassing Samford quarterback Michael Eubank all night. Auburn controlled the line of scrimmage midway through the second quarter on. For a defense that has struggled generating a pass rush in recent weeks, it was a welcome sight to see a more talented unit exert its physicality.

What I didn’t like: Penalties. After committing just 40 penalties in its first seven games combined, Auburn has now committed 36 penalties in its last four games, an average of nine per game. Mental errors kept Samford in the game early, and it continues to be a troubling trend for Gus Malzahn. The Tigers must clean that up if they have any chance to win in Tuscaloosa next weekend.

Who’s the man: We have a tie: Cameron Artis-Payne and Kris Frost. The senior rushed for 129 yards and a score on 24 rushes. He moved into fifth all-time on the Tigers’ single-season rushing list with as he eclipsed the 1,400 yard mark on Saturday night. He’s been the one constant for an up-and-down Auburn team this season. Frost — the junior linebacker — had a stellar night totaling 13 tackles and one interception.

Key play: On a first down play midway through the second quarter, Nick Marshall found Sammie Coates on a 49-yard strike that seemed to ignite an Auburn offense that was otherwise asleep though the first quarter and a half. Quan Bray would score on a 23-yard touchdown run a few plays later.

What’s next: Auburn heads to Tuscaloosa to face No. 1 Alabama in the Iron Bowl.