Les Miles: Former DC Kevin Steele has 'tremendous defense' at Auburn

Kevin Steele was LSU’s defensive coordinator for only one season, but it’s a nevertheless a subplot as coach Les Miles’ squad prepares to face him and Auburn this weekend.

Steele served on Miles’ staff last season before bolting for Auburn in the wake of LSU’s huge Texas Bowl victory against Texas Tech last season. The abrupt move forced Miles to search for his third defensive coordinator in as many seasons.

Miles said Kevin Steele told him after Texas Bowl at hotel he was going to Auburn.
"I was relatively shocked. But I wish him well." #LSU

— Scott Rabalais (@RabalaisAdv) September 19, 2016

Miles praised Steele, who helped LSU finish No. 25 in total defense last year, at his weekly press conference Monday.

Miles on AU defense, Kevin Steele: "They'll be lined up right, instructed correctly. Kevin did a great job for us when he was here."

— Christian Boutwell (@byCBoutwell) September 19, 2016

Les says Auburn has "a tremendous defense."

"We know the defensive coordinator there." Obviously that'd be Kevin Steele #LSU

— James Moran (@SmartestMoran) September 19, 2016

Miles: Auburn defense and new DC Kevin Steele has gone against two quality teams in Clemson (L, 19-13) and Texas A&M (L, 29-16). #LSU

— Sheldon Mickles (@MicklesAdvocate) September 19, 2016

The former colleagues will square off at 6 p.m. ET Saturday when No. 18 LSU travels to Auburn.