Know the Enemy 2023: Auburn Tigers
A dear friend answers our questions
We asked our friends over at The Up Tempo Podcast to answer some questions about Auburn football for us. Ike Jones graciously answered the call to be our go-to expert for the upcoming matchup.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Some answers were edited slightly for clarity. Any additional input provided will be clearly denoted with “WFC:” at the start
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doing a preview on their show earlier this week:Which player on offense should Cal fans know about?
IJ: Robby Ashford is the change-of-pace QB that should be on the radar. He has athleticism similar to Cal's starter, Sam Jackson V.
What do you like about the Payton Thorne vs. Robby Ashford battle? Who is your favorite of the two QBs?
IJ: I like that they each give the opposition something different to worry about. Thorne has been through the tough games in hostile environments. Ashford is a gamer that makes it hard for any defense to keep under control.
I like them both for different reasons.
What is going on with Jarquez Hunter? If he doesn't play, how deep is the running back room?
IJ: I expect Hunter to play this season. His status is still unclear for this game. If he doesn't play, Cal should still have their hands full with Damari Alston, Brian Battie, and the true freshman, Jeremiah Cobb.
Which player on defense should Cal fans know about?
IJ: The secondary is filled with playmakers. The nickel/STAR has two havoc-makers in Keionte Scott and Donovan Kaufman.
Who’s one under-the-radar or X-factor player who could swing this game for you?
IJ: I would look at the freshman defender, Keldric Faulk as a game-changer on that side. He may be a problem for the offensive line.
What transfer portal additions should we watch out for?
IJ: Other than Thorne, Cal fans should be aware of the graduate transfer from Jackson State Shane Hooks. He is a big-body WR who is good at contested catches. Also, the FIU-transfer TE, Rivaldo Fairweather will be a potential pass-catching target.
What surprised you the most after Auburn's week 1 game against UMass?
IJ: The early struggles by the defense to stop the run were an unwelcome surprise. Using 2 QBs and how fluidly it all went was a pleasant surprise.
What does Auburn need to do to win the game?
IJ: Stop the run, plain and simple. If they can limit the big plays in the run game, Auburn can control the clock and get out of there with a win.
What does Cal need to do to win the game?
IJ: Force turnovers. I think Cal has a disciplined defense, but Auburn may be content to play patiently and methodically.
How do you see the game going?
IJ: I can see it being close throughout and Auburn pulling away late.
Are there any worries about traveling to Berkeley from Auburn for an evening game? How has the team handled playing after long trips?
IJ: This team is basically a brand-new squad. It's hard to say how this group will respond, but travel is always a concern.
We don't condone violence at W4C, but we like this question as an opportunity for folks to air it out. Whom do you most want to punch in the face?
IJ: We don't have a big rivalry with Cal right now. Ask me this question next year and that answer may change.