One of Alex Golesh's goals as Auburn football's head coach is to build a strong running game. His dreams were set back in Week 1 as Baylor's defense limited Auburn's running game to just 130 yards. Now, they appear to be on the right path as Auburn posted 343 rushing yards in its 43-8 win over Southern Miss last Saturday, reaching the goal by spreading carries to six different players.
Auburn offensive coordinator Joel Gordon discussed the efficiency of the Tigers' run game in Week 2's win over Southern Miss, mentioning how much the unit improved from Week 1, and how productive each back was in the Tigers' latest win.
"Omar (Mabson II), he made some good gains out of his opportunities. It was good to see Bryson (Washington) being able to stick
his foot in the ground and get going. That's the first time, not the first time we've seen it, but obviously the first time in a game that he's been able to get out there and open up his stride and run, and it looked good," Gordon said Monday. "We have work to do. Obviously, (Jeremiah) Cobb did some good things as well."
Two of Auburn's backs, Omar Mabson and Jeremiah Cobb, each gained over 85 yards on the ground in the Tigers' win over Southern Miss, with Mabson making personal history by rushing for 108 yards and a score. It was the first time in his young career to reach the 100-yard mark and to score a touchdown. Baylor transfer Bryson Washington also found his footing by rushing for 44 yards on seven carries.
Gordon is confident in Auburn's stable of backs this season.
"When you look at those first three guys that are on the field at that position, those are three guys that you feel like you can go out there and compete with, for sure,” Gordon said.
Auburn has one of the most efficient run games in the SEC through two games, ranking No. 6 in the conference with 236 yards per game. They will be tested this week by a tough Florida defense that allows just 91 yards per game.
The Tigers and Gators battle on Saturday at 6 p.m. CT inside Jordan-Hare Stadium. The game will be the SEC opener for both teams.
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This article originally appeared on Auburn Wire: Joel Gordon is pleased with Auburn's running backs through two games
