Quarterbacks

With the way Mike Hartline was playing before he got hurt, UK might have won this category. But as it is, UK will either start a career backup or a true freshman on Saturday, and that’s enough reason to give this one to Auburn.

Adv: Auburn

Running backs

Ben Tate has been solid for the Tigers, but Derrick Locke has been a workhorse for UK. He’s still waiting for a huge rushing performance this season, and it’s just a matter of time until that happens.

Adv: UK

Receivers

There’s no questioning Randall Cobb. But outside of him, UK is struggling to find reliable receiving options. Darvin Adams and Terrell Zachery have both been solid options for Auburn this year, and that shows up on the scoreboard.

Adv: Auburn

Offensive Line

UK’s offensive line has been up and down. Not many sacks allowed, but a ton of penalties. There were questions about Auburn’s offensive line before the season, but they’ve done enough to pave the way for the conference’s No. 1 scoring offense.

Adv: Auburn

Defensive Line

Corey Peters has been sensational in conference play for UK. Antonio Coleman would have been an NFL draft pick if he had left after last year. But because Peters is still looking for consistent help on the line, Auburn gets the nod.

Adv: Auburn

Linebackers

Auburn’s linebacking corps has been rocked with injuries and looks thin. UK’s linebackers are nicked up, but they should continue their solid play thus far this year. UK wins this category with surprising ease.

Adv: UK

Secondary

Trevard Lindley is still out. Paul Warford will go, which should help, but everyone saw just how exposed UK’s secondary can be last week when a true freshman piled up 138 receiving yards and three touchdowns. When Lindley is back, UK can win this category.

Adv: Auburn

Special teams

Lones Seiber is on fire and has made five straight field goals, but UK’s coverage unit is still lacking. Until the Cats can stop kickoff returns on a regular basis, they can’t win this category.

Adv: Auburn

Overall

At the beginning of the year, it looked like UK had the talent to beat Auburn. But the Tigers have surprised everyone and have turned into one of the most potent offensive teams in the conference. With an unsettled quarterback battle, the Cats won’t have enough to keep up with the Tigers.

Adv: Auburn