Work in progress

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AUBURN, Ala. | Auburn's defense gave up 406 yards and 21 points to San Jose State, but forcing four turnovers is something positive to build on heading into the off-week.

"We talk about taking steps in the right direction and we did that as far as turnovers go," defensive back Blake Countess said. "We allowed a few too many big plays and they put some points on the board. That's not our goal, but we took a step in the right direction and we got the win so that's really all that matters."

Auburn is ranked ninth in the SEC and 93rd in the country in total defense allowing 412.0 yards per game. It's not close to where they would like to be or need to be but head coach Gus Malzahn has seen progress under first-year defensive coordinator Will Muschamp.

"I think you have to look at it collectively," Malzahn said. "The big thing that stood out to me was the four turnovers. If you get four turnovers, I don't care how many yards you give up, you still have a good chance of winning. We were very opportunistic.

"They are still a work in progress just like our offense, but the good thing is, we know a lot about what we have and the good thing is that we have an off week which is much needed to heal up and clean some things up."

Auburn's defense has been beset by injuries. Cornerback Joshua Holsey was lost for the year with a knee injury. Carl Lawson injured his hip in the opening game and it's unclear if he'll return this season.

"There's no timeline right now, but we are hoping to get (Lawson) back before the end of the season," Malzahn said.

Linebackers Justin Garrett and Tre Williams, and safeties Tray Matthews and Tim Irvin have all missed at least one game with an injury.

Auburn could be close to getting one veteran defender back. Cornerback T.J. Davis, who injured his knee during spring drills, was dressed out and went through warm-ups before the SJSU game but didn't play.

He could return for the Kentucky game Oct. 15.

Several true freshman have also assumed big roles on defense including Irvin, cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Jeremiah Dinson, linebacker Jeffery Holland and defensive end Byron Cowart.

Malzahn said it's important for the young players on both sides of the ball to take a step forward during the off-week.

"It's just getting better at who we are going to be in the second half of the season," he said. "We've gotten some good information on the young guys. I think that is probably the biggest thing for me is how the young guys are going to respond, what their strengths are, and building around those strengths."