Auburn's Defensive Line Faces Major Test Against Trinidad Chambliss

The Auburn Tigers have struggled to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks this season, and head coach Alex Golesh knows that has to change heading into Saturday's matchup against Ole Miss.

After allowing LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt to throw for 387 yards and three touchdowns in Saturday's 38-17 loss, Auburn will now have to find a way to slow down another dangerous quarterback in Trinidad Chambliss.

And one of the biggest concerns for Auburn's defense has been its inability to consistently generate pressure with just four defenders.

During his Wednesday press conference, Golesh was asked to evaluate Auburn's pass rush throughout the season.

"It's been up and down," Golesh said.

Golesh explained that Auburn has done a good job creating pressure through different defensive schemes and blitz packages.

But the Tigers haven't consistently been able to get to opposing quarterbacks with their defensive line alone.

"Can we get it done with four? I think it's been up and down," Golesh said.

Golesh also acknowledged that Auburn hasn't generated as many sacks as the coaching staff would like.

That's concerning for a defense that has relied heavily on its ability to create pressure through different looks.

Auburn was expecting players like Jared Smith to take on a bigger role this season, but the Tigers haven't gotten the consistent production they were hoping for from their pass rush.

Auburn struggled to contain Leavitt when plays broke down against LSU, allowing him to escape the pocket and extend drives.

Now the Tigers will face Chambliss, who has shown the ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs.

Golesh praised the Ole Miss quarterback's composure and ability to keep looking downfield when plays break down.

"Like the composure, the ability to never, like, get hectic back there," Golesh said.

Defensive lineman Nate Johnson knows Auburn has to do a better job keeping Chambliss contained.

"Just as a defense, we know we got to keep the quarterback in the pocket, especially as a D-line," Johnson said.

Linebacker Bryce Deas also emphasized the importance of preventing Chambliss from extending plays.

"We know that he likes to extend plays. When he scrambles, he looks to pass," Deas said.

Regardless, it's very clear that Auburn has to find a way to create pressure.

The Tigers can't afford another performance like the one they had against LSU. They have to make Chambliss uncomfortable. Auburn needs its defensive line to generate more consistent pressure without allowing Chambliss to escape the pocket.

And if the Tigers can't get that corrected, it could be another difficult afternoon for Auburn's defense in Oxford.