Going into this game, almost 90% of Auburn's offensive production had been produced by underclassmen. Up until garbage time, when John Franklin III, a junior, entered the game, that percentage was largely holding true.
Kerryon Johnson was the highlight of the 1st half, wracking up nearly 100 yards before the end of the 1st quarter against one of the nation's worst rushing defenses. He came out of the game shortly after the start of the 2nd half and totaled 146 yards on 24 carries.
Sean White again performed well in the passing game, throwing 14/17 for 239 yards, including two deep balls. A pass interference was drawn on another deep ball when the WR had to come back for the ball. Still, White did a great job throwing the ball overall and the young wide receivers came to play as well.
Tony Stevens led the team in receptions with 4 catches and 109 yards. Ryan Davis had 5 grabs for only 56 yards, but he was mainly used on screens and did an excellent job with them. The young receivers got in on the action with Kyle Davis - today wearing #86 instead of #11 for reasons I haven't heard - catching one of Sean White's deep balls.
Tigers scoring their first touchdowns today were Kyle Davis, John Franklin III (running and passing), Malik Miller, and Nate Craig-Myers. Sean White garnered his first rushing touchdown, as well. John Franklin III's 2 TDs were things of beauty, though. If he could consistently throw the football as he did to NCM, he would be a serious weapon.
The defense came through with a good performance, as well. There were some busted plays, again, but overall they throttled ULM's offense. Montravius Adams had a great game, blocking one FG and getting his hand on an extra point, although the ball had enough on it to still make it through the uprights. Carl Lawson had at least one sack on his own, and it looked like he and Adams may have split another one.
Auburn needed to look dominant in this game, and they did just that. The play calling was perfect, and the Tigers scored on almost every possession. Daniel Carlson had one field goal blocked, unfortunately, and Auburn failed to punch it in on their last drive with the walk-ons (they did get a safety on the next play), but overall it was an offensive clinic. Had they wanted, Auburn could have easily scored 70.
The Tigers go on the road next week for their first road game in Starkville against Mississippi State. They'll look to continue the momentum from the last two weeks and keep things going strong for the rest of the season.
War Eagle!