SEC Championship Game 2010: Auburn’s Keys To Victory

The Auburn offense is the key to victory in the SEC Title game. Despite what folks may think, Auburn's offense never was really stopped in the first matchup with South Carolina. The Gamecocks managed four scoring drives, two off Auburn turnovers. Meanwhile, Auburn generated five, plus two missed field goal attempts. Auburn held a big yardage edge, rolling up 492 yards to Carolina's 384. Auburn overpowered the Gamecock line to rush for 334 yards. That equation has not changed, and the Auburn passing attack has become more developed since week four. Cameron Newton can sew up a Heisman Trophy with a solid performance in Atlanta.

Other intangibles favor the Tigers as well. They've had an extra day to prepare. Carolina faced a rivalry game like Auburn did. Clemson did not play well, especially on offense. On defense, however, Clemson's front four did some damage up front. A week after facing DeQuan Bowers and Co., the Gamecocks now have to face Nick Fairley and a ten-deep line. With quarterback Stephen Garcia ailing, it's not a good situation.

For Auburn, the Tigers must keep an even keel. An SEC Championship Game is uncharted territory for our players as well. We'd also prefer it if the Tigers broke their pattern of digging an early hole and getting behind by several scores.