Auburn has an extremely talented defense in 2016. The defensive line is expected to be among the best in the country. The linebackers are green, but all presumptive starters were highly sought-after recruits. The defensive backfield returns three starters, including the leading tackler over the past two seasons, Rudy Ford, at nickel. Carl Lawson, when healthy, could well be one of the best pass rushers in the country. He’s athletic enough to play a bit in space, occasionally dropping into pass coverage during blitzes. His backup, Jeff Holland, is probably mobile enough to do the same at 240 lbs.
Film Preview: Auburn Defense vs Clemson Offense
