Defense has been the name of the game for the Auburn Tigers this season, but that wasn't the case during their 45-38 overtime loss against the Vanderbilt Commodores on the road on Nov. 8.

This was the worst performance the Tigers have had on the defensive side of the ball this season, giving the group motivation to figure things out during its final tuneup before taking on Alabama.

"We just didn't play to our standard that game," said defensive lineman Malik Blocton. "We had too many busts, missed assignments, blown coverages, busts in the run game — we had a lot of that stuff. Not caging the quarterback against Vandy. We did a lot of stuff that wasn't conducive to us winning. That's not how we play, we don't like to put that stuff on film. We're going to get it corrected going into Mercer."

While there has been speculation surrounding the Tigers' ability to properly focus on the Mercer game and not look ahead to the Iron Bowl, Blocton doesn't believe that will be the case as a result of who will be trotting out at quarterback.

Deuce Knight will be getting the start for the first time in his college career and only appearing in a game for the second time, leading to an increased level of excitement.

"Definitely," Blocton said of being excited to see Knight get the start at quarterback. "Then just knowing like, Deuce is one of my close friends. Just being able to see him play in the stadium, I can't wait. I'm really ready to see him play. I feel more like a fan going into the game."

Blocton believes Knight will put on a show against Mercer and give Tiger fans a look at what the future could be at quarterback.

"They're going to see a very talented young quarterback," Blocton said. "Deuce has one of the craziest arms I've ever seen. He just makes some crazy throws out here. It's some stuff that you don't see that often."