Kevin Sumlin talks about Auburn preparation, Trevor Knight and Noel Mazzone
Published:
Texas A&M (2-0) is off to a quiet, yet strong start to the 2016 season — and that probably is just how coach Kevin Sumlin prefers it. The Aggies have scored an 11th-best 98 points through the first two games and looks to continue the pace on the road at Auburn for their SEC opener this Saturday.
Here’s what Sumlin had to say during Wednesday’s SEC teleconference.
On preparing for Auburn’s quarterbacks:
Kevin Sumlin asked if A&M is preparing for all 3 Auburn QBs: "Should I really tell you that?"
— Dave Matter (@Dave_Matter) September 14, 2016
Texas A&M coach Kevin Sumlin on Auburn: 'I thought they executed their passing game last week as well I've seen them.'
— Matthew Stevens (@matthewcstevens) September 14, 2016
“Should I really tell you that? [laughs] We are planning for the system. I thought both quarterbacks threw the ball well last week, so we have to be ready for the power running game and the deep shots. Thought the passing game really progressed last week for Auburn.”
On Auburn:
Texas A&M head coach Kevin Sumlin says Auburn’s defensive scheme is similar to what Muschamp did last year…and you know what? He’s correct.
— Matthew Stevens (@matthewcstevens) September 14, 2016
“There are some similarities between [Auburn and Texas A&M]. The defensive line can create havoc, and the experience is up front. What they did against Clemson was impressive.”
On Trevor Knight:
“I’ve talked about him at length. He filled a void for us and we filled a void for him. After being named the starter, it gave him a chance to lead and it has developed him into a leadership role. It’s not a one-man deal offensively here, and he understands that.”
On how offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone has worked out so far:
“We have known each other for the better part of 20 years… we talked and would meet about offense in the offseason. To your question, he and Knight got here close together and the transition has come for both of them, and I think that’s been helpful for both of them. They both hit the ground running and I think it’s gone about as well as it can go.”
Tyler Waddell is a member of the Saturday Down South news team. He brings over five years of professional journalism experience and is closing in on a Bachelor's in sports management. Follow him on Twitter (@Tyler_Waddell).
