In preparation for Saturday’s matchup between Auburn and Texas A&M, Saturday Down South is taking a look at the key matchups that may decide the showdown between the Tigers and Aggies.

Auburn run game vs. Texas A&M run defense

Auburn’s offense is beginning to hit its stride, highlighted by a combined 643 rushing yards in its last two games.

The Tigers now face a mediocre Texas A&M run defense that can’t tackle anyone. Auburn opens as a 21-point favorite over A&M and are primed for a huge day on the ground.

Running back Cameron Artis-Payne and quarterback Nick Marshall are running the zone read well, and Artis-Payne is on pace for a better season than Heisman finalist Tre Mason had last season.

Auburn has controlled the line of scrimmage its past two outings, which does not bode well for the A&M defensive front. The Aggies are not physical up front and are poor on their gap assignments. The back end can’t tackle, so if Marshall or Artis-Payne can get to the second level, the Tigers could rack up a lot of yards.