Auburn needed a get-right game after the Week 2 loss to Clemson brought some the War Eagle doubters to cry overrated two weeks ago. The 14-point win over Mercer only gave further ammo for those picking against Auburn but following the team’s SEC opener at Mizzou, those skeptics will be somewhat silenced Saturday night in Columbia.

The Tigers are now 1-0 in SEC play and 3-1 on the season following the huge 59-14 win in Columbia and got its offense rolling in a big way prior to the showdown with Mississippi State on the Plains next weekend.

What I liked

Kerryon Johnson

With Kam Pettway sitting out this one, Johnson had no problem taking complete control of the offense. He rushed for an astonishing five touchdowns in the game, which outscores the Missouri offense in its last three games combined. Johnson’s performance is even more impressive considering he’s been out for several weeks due to injury.

Defense making plays

Kevin Steele’s unit played fast and aggressive Saturday night, setting the tone early with an interception that helped Auburn take an early lead in the game. The unit also recovered two fumbles. After getting Mizzou in a hole early, the defense was able to pin its ears back and focus on stopping Drew Lock and the Missouri passing game. Auburn only allowed seven points until the fourth quarter when the game was already well in hand.

Jarrett Stidham

The much-discussed quarterback took a ton of criticism following the Clemson loss but he looked more comfortable in this game than at any other time this season. Stidham completed 13 of his 17 throws and managed to show off his big arm with several big passing plays in this game. Auburn would be wise to continue to lean on the ground game but the Tigers will need the threat of Stidham’s arm to hurt defenses that stack the box against them.

What needs work

3rd down offense

For all the success the Auburn team had in this game, the Tigers didn’t perform that well on third down — converting only five of 12 attempts. Against a team like Mizzou, that’s not going to hurt, but a good SEC team could beat them with a conversion rate that low. Expect that to be an area of focus this week for Auburn in practice.

Special teams coverage

You know it was a good night when below average special teams coverage is being highlighted. The Tigers were pinned deep early and often thanks to Mizzou punter Corey Fatony and East Tigers’ kicking game. Again, Auburn was able to go up and down the field with ease against Missouri, but against a legitimate SEC defense, things won’t be nearly as easy. The Tigers need to clean up this unit before Mississippi State comes to town next weekend.