Missouri coach Eli Drinkwitz speaks highly of Jarquez Hunter and Auburn football’s defense

Following a non-conference battle with UMass, Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz has a problem to solve re-entering SEC play as they host Auburn on Saturday.

On Wednesday’s SEC Teleconference, Drinkwitz said his offense is going to have to figure out Auburn’s defense calling their scheme complex.

“We are going to have to play behind our pads. They are very complicated in their scheme,” Drinkwitz said. “They got multiple fronts, pressures and looks. I did not play them last year, but they are different than anyone else we have played. They bring a lot out you.”

Drinkwitz also keyed on the Auburn’s leading rusher Jarquez Hunter who is fifth in the SEC in rushing yards with 528 and is averaging 6.8 yards per carry.

Against Georgia, Hunter averaged seven yards per carry along with a 38-yard touchdown. Against Power 4 teams, he’s averaging 13.5 carries per game.

“In order to play well against Auburn, we are going to have to tackle Jarquez Hunter,” Drinkwitz said. “You talk about a guy with really good contact balance and has great vison with short area quickness. He can really get into a hole and burst through it. Very difficult to tackle because of his size. The taller and bigger linebackers get caught in the chest trying to bring him down. He’s a really good running back and is up there with the best we have faced.”

During Monday’s press conference Auburn coach Hugh Freeze emphasized getting the ball to Hunter more to create scoring opportunities for the offense.

“There’s no question, 27 needs to touch it more,” Freeze said.

The Tigers will have a chance to display its offensive prowess against Missouri at 11 AM in Columbia, MO. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.