Auburn football: 5 breakout players to watch in 2020

With a tough season schedule this year, as it usually is seemingly every year for Auburn, defensive prowess will be key. While reloading along the defensive line remains to be seen with so many excellent players going pro such as Derrick Brown, Marlon Davidson and Nick Coe, Auburn should be incredibly feisty in the defensive backfield. Look for cornerback Roger McCreary to break out.

McCreary is entering his junior year out of Mobile with the Tigers. The 6-foot, 188-pound cornerback played in all 13 games last year in a reserve role. He had 36 total tackles (30 solo, six assists) and one for a loss of yardage. In coverage, he has had nine passes defended, an interception and a fumble recovery.

His inherent versatility and production will be useful in Kevin Steele’s defense. McCreary’s ballhawking skills and ability to line up at multiple spots in the secondary should lead to increase playing time for the Auburn defensive back. With a good nose for the football, look for him to play well off his Tigers teammates with an increased role on this defense.

Though the pass rush may be worse than it was a season ago, the defensive backfield feels like the biggest area of strength for this Auburn defense entering the campaign. The secondary will have to play smart and within itself, but there will be opportunities for guys like McCreary to make big time plays that will translate into hopefully, plenty of Auburn wins in 2020.