Auburn may not be having its best season, but Gus Malzahn knows he doesn’t need to motivate his players for Saturday’s game.

It’s the Iron Bowl against Alabama, and the motivation is always there.

“This is Auburn, and this is the Iron Bowl. We don’t have to bring anything up,” Malzahn said during his press conference on Tuesday. “You’ve got to raise your level in this game. You’ve got to be physical, and you’ve got to be balanced in order to get it done against them.”

The Tigers will be getting a boost on defense as Malzahn said that defensive end Nick Coe will return from a wrist injury to play against the No. 1 Crimson Tide. Malzahn also said that running back JaTarvious Whitlow (ankle) will be “full speed” on Saturday.

Wide receiver Eli Stone (knee) has been practicing, according to Malzahn, and he will be available “if needed.”

Although Malzahn knows his team will be motivated, he acknowledged the tough task that the Tigers have in front of them facing Tua Tagovailoa and the top-ranked Crimson Tide.

“They’re a challenging team, there’s no doubt,” Malzahn told the media. “[Tagovailoa] extends plays very well. When things aren’t within the normal timing, he’s really, really good when he’s rolling out. … His ball placement when he’s under pressure is impressive.”

Auburn and Alabama are set to kick off at 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.