How does Auburn return to the dominant force flexed as SEC champs during Gus Malzahn’s first season?

Be more physical.

That’s been the motto during spring practice as the Tigers try and reverse course on last year’s disappointing 8-win finish which included a lackadaisical slide over the final month of SEC play.

“When I came here my freshman year after the 3-9 season, a lot of guys were really just ready. Guys were always together,” said defensive tackle Montravius Adams after a recent practice according to the Montgomery Advertiser. “Last year, we didn’t have none of that. We had it at points, sometimes we’ve have it and sometimes we wouldn’t have it.

“This year, I’m trying to do that and so are a lot of other players.”

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Listening to Adams, it would appear the players took the fall from the mountain personal and don’t want a repeat performance.

The acquisition of Will Muschamp means Auburn’s defense, by default, will become more physically-imposing thanks to the defensive coordinator’s fierce, oft-attacking scheme. That was reflected throughout the first week of spring practice, Malzahn says.

“I like where we’re at at this point, as a unit,” Malzahn said. “We have guys pushing themselves trying to get better each day trying to learn to practice, to hang in there mentally and physically.”

The Tigers never found an identity last season under Ellis Johnson and despite picking off an SEC-best 22 passes, the secondary struggled, giving up 230.1 yards per game — third-worst in the league. Auburn’s pass rush didn’t fare much better, compiling just 21 sacks.

It all came crashing down defensively during the Outback Bowl loss to Wisconsin, Auburn’s fourth loss in its final five games. Tackling was an issue, players struggled to get off blocks and the Badgers’ running game had its way with an embarrassing 400-yard, three-touchdown effort.

It’s part of the reason returning starters Cassanova McKinzy and Kris Frost decided against jumping ship to the NFL, instead choosing to leave a lasting mark at the program. Those senior linebackers along with defensive end Carl Lawson from injury provides Muschamp’s unit with instant credibility in the front seven, but there’s work to be done.

“I feel like we’re doing a good job of showing what we got to the new coaches,” Frost said. “As a linebacker you’re never going to practice 100 percent, but it’s been pretty physical here lately.”