2021 Auburn football player profile, overview: No. 9 Zakoby McClain

Auburn linebacker Zakoby McClain finished third in the SEC in total tackles last season but postseason award snubs has him inspired for 2021

Name: Zakoby McClain

Number: 9

Position: Linebacker

Class: Senior

Height: 6’0″

Weight: 219 lbs

Hometown: Valdosta, GA

High School: Valdosta

2020 Statistics: 113 total tackles (57 solo), 5.5 tackles for a loss, 3.0 sacks, 2.0 quarterback hurries, 1.0 pass broken up, 1.0 forced fumble

Twitter: @RicochetRabbit

Overview:

Somehow and some way, McClain was left off the All-SEC team last season after finishing third in the SEC in tackles (113) and being one of the most consistent playmakers in the league.

Expect the senior to use that for motivation heading into 2021.

“It hurt a little they didn’t give me any award last year,  but it just gives me more motivation,” he said. “I have got a chip on my shoulder to just keep going harder and harder.”

McClain and Pappoe form a vaunted linebacker corps for the Tigers that should be a major strength for Derek Mason’s defense. With his talent and the inspiration from getting snubbed, expect McClain to have another outstanding season.