Larry Nixon III talks new role, embracing the challenge of Tiger Stadium on Saturday night

Larry Nixon III has been thrust into a new role at linebacker for Auburn this season compared to what he did in the past at North Texas. Nixon III tallied 106 tackles last season, but there appears to be even more on his plate now at Auburn. Defensive coordinator Ron Roberts relies on Nixon III to man the middle linebacker spot, as Nixon III took over the starting position following Austin Keys' injury in the opener. "I like how much trust he has in me. I have a lot to do before the play and after the play. I have to get everybody ready, let everybody know where we're coming from. I like that a lot. I never got to do that at my old school," Nixon III said. "Any pressures, I like that. We bring pressure, but we're sound in our coverage. I appreciate that. As a linebacker, especially in the league, you take charge, you're the quarterback of the defense. That leader role has been put on me. I'm new and everything, but it's been put on me to be a leader in this defense. I take pride in that. I try to do my best when I'm out there. They depend on me." Nixon III has 23 tackels in his last four games, including eight against Georgia. On Tuesday, Nixon III talked about heading into LSU to face one of the league's best offenses.