Georgia-Auburn 2014: 5 Players to Watch Besides Todd Gurley, Nick Marshall

Nov 1, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Ole Miss Rebels running back I’Tavius Mathers (5) is tackled by Auburn Tigers linebacker Cassanova McKinzy (8) during the game at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Auburn defeated Ole Miss 35-31. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

Cassanova McKinzy – Auburn Linebacker

If someone is going to disrupt the rhythm of the Georgia running game, and keep Gurley and Chubb from getting up a head of steam, it’s probably going to be McKinzy.

The junior linebacker leads the Tigers with 8.5 tackles for loss, totaling 26 yards, and he’s also tallied 1.5 sacks on the season. McKinzy has a motor that doesn’t quit and an incredible nose for the football. He’s also recorded three quarterback hurries and one forced fumble on the season.

The Georgia offensive line is going to essentially have to treat McKinzy as a defensive lineman, and keep a man on him at all times, or he’ll power rush his way to the Georgia backfield quicker than you can say Nick Marshall dismissed.

McKinzy’s game could play a big factor in the winner of this contest.

Next: Damian Swann