Auburn's Defense Could Be Key to Upset of West Virginia

Auburn (4-3) at West Virginia (4-2)
Thursday, 7:30 p.m.
Line: WV -3

What was thought to be a marquee matchup between top 25 teams in the preseason has turned into a game between two of the bigger disappointments of 2008, as Auburn travels to West Virgina on Thursday night.

The Tigers are coming off a bye week after losing at home to Arkansas, their third loss in the last four games. West Virginia also had a bye last week after an uninspiring win over lowly Syracuse.

Auburn Offense vs. West Virginia Defense

This will not be the riveting part of this game. Auburn is having an identity crisis on offense, having gone to the spread in the offseason before firing that offensive coordinator, now returning to their traditional power running scheme. The problem is that Auburn was soundly outgained by equally offensively inept Arkansas in its first game back to a traditional offense. Auburn has been outgained in all three of its losses.

West Virginia’s defense is improved over last year, but still is not likely to win any games for the Mountaineers. Also, it has been susceptible to the rushing attack, giving up nearly 120 yards per game on the ground.

West Virginia Offense vs. Auburn Defense

The Mountaineers' offense has sputtered at times this year, mostly when Pat White is out or not 100 percent. As White goes, so goes WV’s offense. Head coach Bill Stewart said he wanted WV to pass this season and it has, but its bread and butter is still White’s ability to run.

Auburn’s defense has never faltered despite shaky ground surrounding the program. Defensive coordinator Paul Rhoads came from Pitt, which played WV the best of any team last season. The Tigers are giving up under 170 yards per game through the air.

Prediction

It is hard to know what Auburn is going to bring to Morgantown with all the rumors and controversy surrounding Tommy Tuberville and the program right now. However, in a battle of coaches, I'll take Tubs over Bill Stewart any day of the week. The key for Auburn will be how well it can contain Pat White.

Rhoads wrote the formula last year, and I think he has more talent with this team. I like Auburn in the mild upset, as West Virginia’s shaky kicker missed a tying field goal late.

Auburn 24 West Virginia 21
Auburn Covers +3