Ole Miss Will Be Without Star Running Back Kewan Lacy Against Auburn

The Auburn Tigers could be catching a break heading into Saturday's matchup against Ole Miss, as the Rebels are expected to be without one of their biggest offensive playmakers.

Ole Miss running back Kewan Lacy will miss Saturday's contest against Auburn, according to Rebels head coach Pete Golding.

That's a significant loss for an Ole Miss offense that has been one of the biggest challenges for opposing defenses throughout the season.

But Auburn defensive coordinator DJ Durkin doesn't believe Lacy's absence will change much about how the Rebels approach Saturday's game.

Lacy has been an important part of the Rebels' offense, and his absence could make things easier for an Auburn defense that struggled in a big way against LSU last weekend.

The Tigers allowed 552 total yards in their 38-17 loss, including 387 passing yards from quarterback Sam Leavitt.

Now Auburn will have to find a way to slow down another talented quarterback in Trinidad Chambliss.

But the Rebels will be without Lacy in the backfield, which could take some pressure off Auburn's defense.

During his weekly press conference, Durkin was asked how much Lacy's absence would change the matchup.

"I don't think it really changes what they do offensively in terms of their scheme, their system, what they do," Durkin said.

Durkin also acknowledged that Lacy is a talented player, but he believes Ole Miss has enough depth to continue running its offense.

Auburn still has to prepare for the Ole Miss' running game though.

Durkin explained that Auburn's coaching staff has already watched film of the other running backs because Lacy has missed time throughout the season.

That means the Tigers won't be preparing for an entirely unfamiliar group of players.

Durkin also praised the talent in Ole Miss' running back room, noting that the other backs are capable of operating within the Rebels' offensive system.

And with Chambliss' ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground, Auburn still has plenty to worry about defensively.

Auburn can't overlook the Rebels' offense. They are still as dangerous as LSU, an offense that had their way with you last week.

The Tigers have struggled to contain mobile quarterbacks this season, and Chambliss presents another difficult challenge.

Lacy's absence is certainly a positive development for Auburn.

But Durkin made it clear that he isn't expecting Ole Miss to make major changes offensively.

And after what happened against LSU, Auburn's defense still has plenty to prove heading into Saturday's contest in Oxford.