Why Georgia fans shouldn’t be worried if Auburn gets off to a fast start on Saturday
By Keith Farner
Published:
Georgia fans are well aware of Third and Grantham, but this week, they may keep an eye on First Quarter Malzahn.
That’s because Auburn could get off to a fast start, but if history is any indication, the Tigers offense under coach Gus Malzahn will sputter after that. That’s because it has as Malzahn’s been offensive coordinator and head coach coming to Sanford Stadium since 2009.
Two years ago, Auburn led 7-0 after one quarter, but Georgia scored 13 points in the second half, and shut out the Tigers the rest of the way to win 13-7.
Four years ago, the game was 7-7 after the first quarter, but Georgia won 34-7.
In 2011, it was 14-7 after the first quarter, but Georgia went on to win 45-7.
In 2009, the Tigers led 14-0 only to fall 31-24.
This is an interesting stat because several times in the history of the Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry, the visiting team has had prolonged success. For example, the visitor won in 2015, 2012, 2008, 2006, 2005, 2002 and 2001.
An SEC trend to keep an eye on this week: In Auburn's four ventures to Sanford Stadium with Gus Malzahn (two as OC & two as HC), the Tigers have not scored an offensive touchdown after the first quarter.
— David Paschall (@DavidSPaschall) November 4, 2018
A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.
