Kentucky has developed a reputation as having one of the most experienced offensive lines in the country, and the Wildcats defensive line also has plenty of size and experience.

Auburn coach Gus Malzahn is aware of those qualities and how they correspond with his Tigers.

“They’re one of the best rushing teams in all of college football, in this league,” Malzahn said at his Tuesday press conference. “If you look at their offensive and defensive line, that’s some of their strengths. They’ve got most of their guys back. Of course, we lost most of our guys offensive front and defensive front. Our guys are aware of that, that’ll be a big factor. I’m real impressed with their offensive line.”

Malzahn was then asked about a transfer rule in general within the SEC, but Auburn transfer QB Joey Gatewood has not yet been cleared to play at Kentucky. Should a player be allowed to play for a school that is facing the player’s former school?

“I think it’s a new day in college football,” Malzahn said. “With everything changing and people moving from team to team. So I just think it’s a new day and I think there’ll be more and more of that in the future.”