Roberts Prepares Arkansas for Auburn and Quarterback Byrum Brown
On November 3, Arkansas defensive coordinator Ron Roberts discussed the Razorbacks’ November 7 game at Auburn, where he previously coached and will face quarterback Byrum Brown again.
Arkansas defensive coordinator Ron Roberts is looking forward to returning to Auburn for the Razorbacks’ game on November 7. He coached the Tigers’ defense in 2023, during Hugh Freeze’s first season, and said he had not been back since then. Roberts recalled the area and people fondly as he looked ahead to the visit.
The matchup also brings a rematch with Auburn quarterback Byrum Brown, whom Roberts faced while coordinating Florida’s defense last season. South Florida beat Florida 18-16, with Brown’s team scoring a touchdown and later taking advantage of penalties to set up the winning field goal. Roberts described the finish as a poor one for his defense.
Brown, who followed Auburn coach Alex Golesh from South Florida, leads the Tigers in rushing through eight games. Roberts said Brown has improved as a passer, citing his ability to read coverages and work through progressions, as well as his patience in the pocket. He also warned that Brown can escape pressure and make plays with his legs.
Auburn has allowed 34 sacks in eight games, the most in the SEC, and its offense scored 17 points against LSU and 15 against Ole Miss in its past two games, both losses by large margins. Roberts said Arkansas must pressure Brown without allowing him to break free, particularly through the middle. The Razorbacks are seeking their second SEC win of the season, and Brown’s rushing production could be an important measure of how effectively they contain him.