Coming off another big conference win, Auburn beat Mississippi State by a score of 49-10, the Tigers host Ole Miss this weekend looking to improve to 3-0 in the SEC.

During his appearance on the SEC’s weekly Coaches Teleconference, Gus Malzahn gave his assessment on his team heading into the bye.

Here’s a summary of what the Auburn coach had to say on the call:

  • “We had a big win last week, we played well in all three phases of the game. Our game this weekend will be the earliest kick we have had so we have to make sure we are up for it.”
  • You’ve had several big pass plays through the air, was that the plan with Jarrett Stidham? “Yeah, the focus this offseason was stretching the field for sure. That was something I stressed to Chip (Lindsey) and the guys are doing a good job of that.”
  • Nate Craig Myers status? “He will play.”
  • Kerryon Johnson, what does he bring? “Stability. He can do everything. He can run and catch, he’s a complete football player.”
  • Defense is #6 in the nation, where you surprised? “We knew going in the year we had a chance to be good and they have carried that over to the games. They are playing really well right now.”
  • Thoughts on Herb Hand coaching through eye surgery? “He’s a tough guy, that’s for sure. He felt real strong that he wanted to go. He’s an extremely tough guy. He’s wearing a patch on it until it heals properly.”
  • Thoughts on the OL? Have you settled on a starting five? “Well, at this time, we have a lot of experience out there. As of right now, that’s a unit we feel good about.”