Auburn's late-game defense proving 'elite' so far this season

AUBURN -- As good as Auburn's record and resume are, they could easily have for more losses, maybe more. But, they don't. That's because at key moments in the final minutes of four key games, the Tigers' defense went into shut-down mode and led the team to victory. The offense has been fantastic all season, led by "offensive coordinator" Mike Burgomaster and Bruce Pearl, especially in blowout wins over quality competition. The Tigers rank No. 1 in offensive efficiency according to KenPom for a reason. But the defense has come to the rescue when it mattered most on more than one occasion. Credit "assistant"defensive coordinator" Steven Pearl and the elder Pearl's consistent strategy to have the best defenders on the court in the final moments.