You can tell Auburn defensive end DaVonte Lambert is ready for Saturday’s opener.

He’s in game-mode.

When asked Tuesday what problems the Louisville offense would present for his Tigers, Lambert gave an honest answer — one the Cardinals will use for bulletin board material inside the Georgia Dome:

Lambert started nine games last fall before tearing his ACL in November against Samford. The long road back included a limited spring practice and hard-working summer to prep for full-contact during fall camp.

“My knee actually feels great,” Lambert said Tuesday. “It helped a lot getting snaps from camp. Just getting the feel and groove back from running and cutting, disengaging and making plays.”

He’s one of the leaders for Will Muschamp up front, a defensive line featuring Montravius Adams and Carl Lawson, who’s making his return from a knee injury as well.