Loeffler: Protection trouble a first-time issue

There was a rather telling remark from Auburn offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler following the Tigers’ 24-7 loss to Arkansas on Saturday. Auburn turned the ball over five times and allowed eight sacks for a loss of 80 yards, issues Loeffler called, “the story of our lives right now.”

The first-year offensive coordinator also went on to say the pass protection issues were a new development.

“We had for the first time I think this year, protection issues,” he said.

This is somewhat telling because Kiehl Frazier, who was pulled at halftime of Saturday’s loss, has now been sacked 13 times this season – nine prior to Saturday. Only two players have been sacked 13-or-more times with as few passing attempts as Frazier (103) – Vanderbilt’s Jordan Rodgers (13 sacks on 103 attempts) and Florida’s Jeff Driskel (17 sacks on 91 attempts).

Previously the coaches have been quick to point out that Frazier’s struggles are not always his fault, citing  protection, route running and every other thing an offensive player not with the last name Frazier has to do for a play to be executed properly.

The implication that protection was a new issue would mean at least most, if not all, of Frazier’s sacks before Saturday were his fault.