Auburn 16, South Carolina 14: 1st half analysis

Two Bo Nix interceptions have kept the Gamecocks in the game at halftime.

Auburn has a 16-14 lead at halftime against South Carolina. The Tigers have moved the ball well but two interceptions by Bo Nix have given the Gamecocks great field position and helped set up their two scores.

Here are some thoughts at halftime:

  • You have to catch the ball! Auburn has had at least three drops when wide open during the first 30 minutes including Seth Williams on the second Nix interception.
  • The clock management at the end of the half? Not good.
  • Bigsby is definitely who the Tigers need at the running back position. There is no question that he has set himself up to be the man the rest of the year for Cadillac Williams’ group. It was good to see Chad Morris finally go to him in the red zone for his first touchdown.
  • Nix has got to stop forcing the ball. On the first interception, he threw into what was basically triple coverage. There was no way that was going to end well.
  • The defense has played well but the offense has given them bad field position. When the Tigers have the Gamecocks in their own territory, Kevin Steele’s unit has been strong.
  • Good to see Anders Carlson finally being able to use his leg to create touchbacks on kickoffs.
  • Anyone know if Nick Saban has been cleared to coach tonight? Haven’t heard a thing about it at all.
  • Auburn gets the ball to start the second half and must put some points on the board or South Carolina will have all of the momentum. Expect to see some Tank usage on the opening drive as the Tigers look to exert its will on South Carolina.
  • That play call on third down for the Eli Stove touchdown was certainly nice.
  • Seth Williams jump-ball catch? Yeah, that was certainly something special.
  • Colby Wooden has definitely made a name for himself over the past two weeks.