Alex Golesh Wants Auburn to Be More Violent Against Ole Miss

The Auburn Tigers struggled to establish the running game in their loss to LSU, and head coach Alex Golesh knows that has to change heading into Saturday's matchup against Ole Miss.

After finding success running the football against No. 1 Georgia, Auburn took a major step backward against LSU, finishing with just 67 rushing yards.

The Tigers also allowed seven sacks, making it difficult for quarterback Byrum Brown and the offense to find any rhythm.

Now Golesh wants Auburn to take a more physical approach against the Rebels.

During his Wednesday press conference, Golesh was asked about the success Florida and Texas had running the football against Ole Miss.

Golesh explained that establishing the running game is something Auburn has to do every week, regardless of the opponent.

"For us to be at our best, you got to be able to run the football," Golesh said.

But the Auburn head coach wants to see a different level of physicality from his offense this weekend. "We one have to start off with an intent to go be more violent than we've ever been," Golesh said.

Golesh also emphasized the importance of getting into the right offensive plays quickly, especially early in the game.

Auburn has already shown that its offense can be effective when the Tigers establish the run.

But against LSU, the offensive line struggled to create running lanes or protect Brown.

One player who could help Auburn get its running game going is offensive guard Kenneth McManus.

McManus has taken on a larger role along Auburn's offensive line, including moving into a starting position. During Tuesday's practice availability, McManus explained that he had been preparing for the opportunity throughout the season.

"It's always next man up mentality," McManus said.

McManus also acknowledged that Auburn's offensive line simply didn't execute well enough against LSU.

"We just didn't go out there and execute, and that's really what it comes down to," McManus said.

Now the Tigers will face another difficult defensive front against Ole Miss.

The Tigers can't afford another performance like the one they had against LSU.

Auburn's offense struggled to sustain drives, and the lack of a running game was a major reason why.

Golesh wants his team to be more physical, while McManus believes the offensive line has to execute better, and if Auburn wants to pick up another upset on Saturday, the Tigers will have to find a way to get the running game going again.