Auburn enters Friday’s Music City Bowl against Purdue licking its wounds from a 7-5 regular season and looking to avenge last year’s bowl loss to UCF.

Purdue’s explosive offense will certainly be challenging for Auburn’s defense, as Jeff Brohm can dial up some plays and points. Electrifying WR Rondale Moore can get behind the defense in a hurry, too.

During Thursday’s media availability, Gus Malzahn was asked about the biggest key to slowing down Purdue’s offense. He also shared an offensive key that was more of a slight concern.

“We’re really going to have to do a super job defensively keeping away from the big play,” Malzahn said. “They do a great job with their scheme attacking defenses. Offensively, the big thing is protecting the football. You always worry after 30 days of playing a game with all the little things you sometimes take for granted. We know we’re playing a really hungry team, and we know we’re going to have to play good sound football.”

Purdue is 37th in the nation at creating explosive plays (20-plus yard plays). That may not seem that high, but when compared with Auburn — 100th in the nation, it puts it into perspective.

Layoffs from the regular season to a bowl game are always concerning. Offensive execution will be paramount, and the Tigers will lean on veteran QB Jarrett Stidham one last time.

You can watch Malzahn’s full presser below, via AL.com:

SDS Staff

Saturday Down South reports and comments on the news around the Southeastern Conference as well as larger college football topics.