By Cameron Heath Walker (@1788sports, @Camheathwalker)

Kerryon Johnson has been an absolute workhorse for the Tiger offense this season. Since week 3, he has had at least 21 touches, and 250 total for the season. That’s tenth in the NCAA for rushing attempts, with the bulk of those coming in big games.

Johnson had 30 carries against Bama, and 32 against UGA. Pettway is second to Johnson on the Auburn roster with 76 total carries. The wear and tear finally caught up to Johnson last week when he suffered a shoulder injury in the Iron Bowl.

Johnson’s injury is currently listed as day to day, and some expect him to play in Saturday’s SEC Championship game. Auburn is set for a rematch against a Georgia team looking to bounce back from a 40-17 beat down on November 11.

Johnson 167 yards, and added two catches for 66 yards and a TD against the Dawgs. He has made his mark over the past few months, and is earning a reputation as one of the best backs in the SEC.

What are Auburn’s chances of a repeat win if Johnson isn’t at 100 percent? The rushing attack has been a dominant force in the Tigers’ offense this season.

Kam Martin is expected to take the bulk of carries if Johnson is not available tomorrow. He suffered an ankle injury in last week’s game, but has been active in practice this week. Martin has played a limited role this season, but has managed to average 6.4 yards a carry.

Auburn signal caller Jarrett Stidham will need to perform at a high level in tomorrow’s game if the Tigers want to have another dominant showing against the Dawgs.

Stidham has an injury-riddled career at Baylor before transferring to the plains. The sophomore is now emerging as one of the most efficient quarterbacks in the SEC.

Auburn’s offense has come a long way in 2017 from a horrific showing in an early matchup in Death Valley against Clemson. Stidham was sacked 11 times by the Clemson defense.

Auburn’s offense is now clicking on all cylinders. Malzahn’s squad has improved through the air and on the ground, and hopes to continue their potent offensive attack tomorrow in Atlanta.

The success of the Tiger offense hinges on Johnson’s ability to function at the same level he was before being injured. Stidham needs Johnson to set up Auburn’s ability to take shots down the field.

The Tigers hope to again force the UGA defense to focus on Johnson, and open its passing game. Offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey has used the run game to open things for Stidham, but serious adjustments will have to be made if Johnson is scratched from today’s roster.

It’s difficult to tell if Martin can be as effective as Johnson against a nasty Georgia front seven that’s loaded with NFL talent. The Bulldogs also have a huge chip on their shoulder from their November trip to Jordan-Hare.

Overall, Auburn has to win on first down. If the Tigers can get into a position where it’s third and short and the defense can’t predict on run or pass they will have a long night. I think it’s tough not to pick Auburn after the first game, and they are also the most complete team in football right now.

Despite the Tigers’ current momentum, a lot is banking on Kerryon Johnson and injury status. This year’s SEC Championship is going to be a great matchup, and I am excited to see how everything plays out in Atlanta.

Photo Cred to Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images