Yet, a program must have quality recruiting and hire good coaches to succeed. Right now, Gene Chizik has done that only being on the Auburn job for approximately 2 months--in my opinion.
Chizik has had some major wins since accepting the Auburn job on December 13, 2008 despite the initial onslaught of negativity. He's done it without coaching a game as the head man at AU.
Those "wins" are merely on paper at this point. However, it is a solid foundation of what could be great things on the horizon for the Auburn Tigers by hiring great position coaches and, most importantly, coaches that recruit like there is no tomorrow. A much larger, all around upswing than the previous regime. Now, they have to win on the field.
The list below list of coaches excites me as Auburn fanatic. Check it:
Head coach: Gene Chizik
Offensive coordinator: Gus Malzahn
Defensive coordinator and linebackers: Ted Roof
Receivers and assistant head coach: Trooper Taylor
Running backs and recruiting coordinator: Curtis Luper
Tight end and special teams coordinator: Jay Boulware
Offensive line: Jeff Grimes
Defensive line: Tracy Rocker
Secondary: Tommy Thigpen & Phillip Lolley
I'm excited about Malzhan's offense bc he'll be allowed to run Malzhan's offense. Trooper, Luper, Boulware & Grimes are all on board with the schemes of the offensive unlike the previous BBQ squad (one position coach in particular that doomed AU's offense and Franklin). They have coached & recruited some great talent at their previous stops.
Defensively, I am most excited at Rocker being back at AU as he was one of the first players I remember hearing about as a little boy. Roof brings intensity and hard nose football to an athletic AU linebacker corp that was much needed. The late addition of Thigpen and Lolley to coach the secondary with Chizik...I know the AU secondary is in good hands and will be ready to play.
I'll gladly take Thigpen to replace James Willis (who left for Bama) and have Roof coaching LB's. Fact.
If you think about it, Chizik held AU's 2008 recruiting together with himself, Trooper, & Luper. They had the help from Joe Whitt, Sr and Lolley, but, for the most part, those guys were relentless from the day they could recruit for AU. They had about one full month to fully recruit for AU.
After Tubs' departure, I believe AU lost around 7 commitments. Yet, they backed off some as well to go after others. For a situation that could have been a lot worse recruiting wise, I think AU ended up very well considering the change in staff. Auburn filled some key needs at the skill position that will be able to contribute immediately.
Trooper, Luper, Thigpen, and Rocker are some of the best, most relentless recruiters in the country and I am excited what they, along with the whole staff, can do with a full year to recruit. Lolley is pivotal in the recruiting aspect bc he has coached at the high school level in Alabama.
With that said, Chizik has done everything right up to this point. Now, he must go into spring training and implement his plan that will get some wins on game day in the fall.
Ultimately, that will be where he will be judged. Rightfully so.
Well, it has been a whirlwind since the last entry it seems. Football season has ended for the most part, Thanksgiving came and went, and Christmas is a week away!
Updates:Davis, "the cool dude", is quickly approaching the one year mark! He'll be 11 months old at the end of December. Lord, time truly does fly! It feels like we were just at the hospital welcoming him into the world. The hair is still spiked, the crawling has picked up at a Nascar's pace, and it seems like all he wants to do is eat! He's living the dream right now. We are anxious to see how he is when "Ho Ho" comes around. Stay tuned...
Auburn ended it's coaching search saga with Gene Chizik. While I'm not too impressed with the hire and question it to some degree, I'll reserve my judgement to when and where it counts...the wins/loses and recruting. The 5-19 record as a head coach doesn't settle well with the Auburn faithful, however, if Chizik would have stayed at Texas until this time, he'd be one of, if not the, hottest names out there right not. He's a great defensive football coach and has the pedigree of success, but coordinators don't always make good head coaches. He is under the microscope for sure and has a lot of tides to turn on and off the field. He could be a total bust at Auburn, yet he could very well be what Auburn needs. We'll all find out soon enough.
**Turkey Day was good as always. Davis seemed to be the main course of attention everywhere we went, but the food and fellowship with family was great as well. Me and my family have so much to be thankful for and it is a peaceful and rewarding feeling to just sit back and think about the blessings in your life. We should do it everyday, but it often gets thrown to the side.
**This past Saturday, Lauren and I had a large group of our closest college friends over for our annual Christmas party. It was the 4th year in a row that we have had it and it is something I really look forward to every year. It's funny how things change so much in a year. We had four newly married couples and three couples with babies now, yet there were still some singles there too. Crazy. It was great to talk about old times, jobs, kids, 401k's, and everything else in between.
...the Iron Bowl is upon us! This is the week where the best rivalry in the nation is talked about to no end. The Saturday of the game is the day when the State of Alabama stops for approx. 4-5 hours in anticipation of whether the Auburn Tigers or the Alabama Crimson Tide will claim the heralded bragging rights for the year. It's a day where best friends become acquaintances, husbands and wives separate, and, unfortunately, violence breaks out. Truth.
The 2008 Iron Bowl is and will be a testy one no doubt. Bama is sporting the #1 ranking in college football, riding high, and looking to finish out the regular season undefeated. However, the Tigers have carried the Iron Bowl torch for six years and looking to finish out the 2008 season on a high note. Furthermore, Alabama has NEVER beaten Auburn in Bryant Denny Stadium and Tuberville has NEVER lost to Georgia and Alabama in the same year. Could this be the year the pendulum swings in the state as far as bragging rights are concerned? Could this year be the year of "firsts" for half of the state or another joyous 365 for the other half?
Either way, the flood gates will open about 6:30 p.m. on Saturday night night.
Let's just be honest here, everyone is (already) chalking up a win for the Tide and not given Auburn ANY chance to win #7. The Crimson and White confidence is running rampant and rightfully so. They have everything to be confident about and, to this point, nothing to really question of their performance(s) this year. Alabama is playing well and has done so all year; they have been playing with consistency all year for the most part. Their freshmen are playing big roles for them, the OL and DL are dominating other fronts, and the defense is making plays all over the field. Anyone that has been watching football and the SEC knows that Alabama is clicking right now. Saban has had them ready to play week in and week out; very contrary to the 2007 Tide. Alabama has proved this year that their first 22 players can play with anyone. They have avoided the injury bug and depth hasn't been an issue for them. They've earned the right to be #1, yes or no?
With that said, there is no reason to fear Auburn at this point, yes? There is no reason to fear losing to a team that hasn't looked "together" all year. It's good to have confidence knowing that you can beat any team you step on the field against. On the contrary, I think there is a team sporting orange and blue that believe they can get a win in Tuscaloosa Saturday evening, I really do. Even though this season has been very, very disappointing, I think Auburn knows they can stun Alabama if they come to town ready to play. Everyone is beatable. **The year: 2002; The place; Bryant Denny Stadium; The game: #9 Alabama vs Auburn The story leading into to the game: Alabama was nationally ranked, Auburn wasn't ranked at all. Alabama was the heavy, heavy favorite. Auburn was looking to survive. Auburn was missing Brandon Johnson (starting FB), Cadillac Williams, & Ronnie Brown for the game (aka...there whole backfield). The Tigers didn't have or weren't given a prayer.....
Similar to the stage for 2008, maybe? If not that, how about 2001 in Auburn when the Tigers were the heavy favorites and Bama chicken kicked them? Or how 'bout 2000 when Damon Duval beat Bama 9-0 with three field goals? Crazy history, huh?
You have to think about it. You have to think about that "what if" factor. "What if"...Auburn was to pull the upset versus Alabama? What if Alabama was to absolutely drill Auburn? However, Auburn beating Bama in 2008 would be something most people didn't think would happen. Fact. You can crunch past scenarios of previous Iron Bowls and come up with a conclusion of how you think the game will pan out, but, as we all know, it will be decided on the field.
As previously mentioned, the Alabama Crimson Tide needs no introduction after what they have done this year. They don't need to explain themselves to anyone for goodness sake! They have taken care of it on the field all year and have the inside track to the BCS National Championship. They are sporting the SEC's #1 ranking in total defense (3rd in the country), #6 in total offense in the SEC and #2 in points scored. Hello! John Parker Wilson is having his best year yet at the Capstone with a little help from Julio Jones, et al. Glen Coffee is turning heads running the ball and Mark Ingram is an added bonus. The OL has been earth movers all year. Offensively, they are getting it done.
As for the Tide defense, Rolando McClain, Rashaad Johnson, and Terrance Cody have the Bama defense in the groove. Javier Arenas is a deadly, deadly weapon on special teams as one of the best in the country. Defensively, the Tide is getting it done too!
Then, you have the Auburn Tigers that is one of the most successful programs in the country in recent years and just about everyone has them losing the Iron Bowl. I'll be the first to admit, not much has been exciting this year on the Plains. However, there is war on the horizon that can heal a lot of wounds and be a spark for 2009.
The Auburn offense has gotten better over the weeks, it has. Kodi Burns seems to be getting more comfortable running the show. He made excellent strides in the Georgia game to put Auburn in a position to win the game with his feet and through the air. Ben Tate, Brad Lester, and Mario Fannin are full go now and should be able to provide various dimensions to the offense against Bama. Everyone saw what Fannin could do with the ball in his hand versus Georgia and it needs to carry over this week. Auburn will need its OL's best game of the year, in my opinion. Tommy Trott is done for the year, but it is sure is great to have a Gabe McKenzie on your side. He made the switch from TE to DE because Tony Franklin said he wasn't good enough for his offense and Gabe wasn't going to see the field. Brilliant, huh?
So, it is plain to see how the Tigers and the Tide match up on paper and with the wins and losses. Yet, often times those teams that dominate the stat category sometimes come in second place in games...sometimes they don't. Stat wise, this Iron Bowl sets up like 2005 in Auburn when Alabama had a topped ranked defense, plus a senior starting as the quarterback. Twelve sacks later, Auburn pulled out the win. I'm just sayin'...
To end this filibuster of a post, there are major implications riding on the 2008 Iron Bowl. There is Alabama with everything to play for and then there's Auburn that is playing for pride and nothing to lose. If nothing else, the odds of winning seven straight is against Auburn (or any team for that matter).
Should Alabama beat Auburn? Based on the season thus far, yes. Is Auburn capable of beating Alabama? Uh huh, I think so. Based on public perception, who will win the game? Alabama, by a large margin. What say ye?
Auburn will be coming in as healthy as they have been since early in the season. The offense has gotten better, the defense is rested and healthy again, and Tuberville is no stranger when it comes to playing as an underdog versus top ranked teams.
If Auburn can move the ball on offense and take advantage in the red zone coupled with the defense not giving up the big play.....watch out. If they don't, it could get ugly.
An upset is very possible....ask Tre Smith, he's climbed that mountain. Auburn is ready to take on Alabama. So, grab something hounds tooth or throw on some orange and blue Under Armour and let's roll! This game will be one for the history books for someone.
My beloved Auburn Tigers enter "Amen Corner" and, Lord, do they need a prayer to close out the season on a high note! Most importantly, they need one more win to become bowl eligible. How does a preseason Top 10 ranked and favorite to win the SEC West division not make a bowl game? You tell me, but I believe cause is obvious. Leadership.
First up is the the Georgia Bulldogs.
Every Auburn fan, player, coach, etc. remembers last year's game with the Dawgs very clearly...Watch me crank it, watch me roll, Watch me crank dat, Soulja Boy... Even the CBS crew took part!
That was the scene to start the 4th quarter at Samford Stadium. Auburn closed shop, balls were hitting off of receiver's helmets and landing into Georgia's hands, and the Dawgs kept scoring, scoring, and scoring. It was a long night between the hedges. Georgia was a good football team, but the fact Auburn couldn't do anything right made the Dawgs look like the New England Patriots. Lastly, those black jerseys and the scene of the "Blackout" was awesome! It didn't help them in the Bama game this year, but they chicken kicked Auburn in them.
Cue 2008 in Auburn's Jordan Hare Stadium...
Auburn is at a disappointing 5-5 on the year, searching for a way to end the year on some sort of high note. The blame of this season's blunder can be dished out o'plenty. However, no one wants to hear excuses and excuses don't get you anywhere. Auburn has two games remaining that can make a statement, but also establish a sense of PRIDE.
Auburn has many, many players on their roster that are from the state of Georgia. Mix those players with the thoughts of last year's beating and showboating from the Dawg and you see there is plenty to play for. The big question is: Is Auburn up to the challenge?
The Georgia Bulldogs have shown have shown this year that they are vulnerable and can be beaten. However, they can be deadly as well. They have weapons galore and the offensive side the ball in Moreno, Greene & Massaquoi at the receiver spots, and then there's Stafford. Hence being ranked #1 in scoring offense in the SEC. The Dawg defense is suspect and known for giving up some points (38 to Kentucky, 49 to Florida, and 38 to LSU). They can be scored on, but can they be contained? Yes, but it's not easy.
The Auburn Tigers are on the back nine of a dismal season. It's been a roller coaster that hasn't been fun to watch. However, they have a chance to gain back some pride they have lost along the way starting tomorrow against the Dawgs. The offense under Kodi Burns is getting better, but it is still not a masterpiece by far. There is still no consistency and they are predictable to other defenses. Auburn is going to have to throw the ball because of defenses stacking the box for the run. Mario Fannin looks to be getting the start at running back this week. Hopefully he can provide a spark and Tate and Lester can follow suit. The Auburn defense has gotten some much needed guys healthy for the showdown tomorrow (Coleman, Marks, and Doolittle) and they seriously need them to play. The Auburn defense will have to be lights out because they will be tested in every aspect.
I stepped out on a limb a couple weeks ago with some friends saying Auburn wins one of the next two (Georgia and/or Alabama) if there is any of the "Tuberville" left in Tuberville (meaning he wins some he isn't supposed to). You can imagine the responses I got in return. If there is one team they match up better with--it is Georgia. A win over Georgia would be a big win for Auburn and a devastating loss to the Dawgs. Auburn owes UGA something for the recent beatings they've handed out to the Tigers. Tomorrow's game could very well be ugly in the fact the Georgia is very capable of running Auburn out of their own house, however, Auburn is very capable of playing a good game and beating Georgia.
I'll stick with my statement and say:
BEATS
**Other picks** Alabama over Mississippi State (but, doesn't cover) Florida over South Carolina Texas over Kansas Florida State over Boston College.
My stomach hurts and I don't know if I am getting sick, worrying about the Presidential election next week, or is it just that Auburn plays Saturday and I'm scared to watch...
Well, I went with my heart picking Auburn over West Virginia, but my gut was telling me what would happen. In the first half of the WVU game, I actually thought some other team had stole the Auburn offense's road white uni's! The offense showed signs of life off the heels of two interceptions from the defense.
All was well, AU led at the half (as they have in every game). The second half rolls around, and, WHAP!, back to Auburn of of 2008 and blew another halftime lead. Auburn didn't make adjustments (hence the 33 yard of total offense in the second half), bu, lord have mercy, WVU did! All the credit goes to WVU, Pat White, and the (first) Noel Devine as they absolutely shredded Auburn's defense.
Honestly, I think the defense just broke from holding it together all year. They've kept AU in every game with little to no offensive help and they wore down. Or, did they just plain say: "heck with this...!"? Injuries played a part as well, but it was only a matter of time.
This Auburn team is in shambles with no leadership. Tuberville....wow. That's all that needs to be said. He gave up in that WVU game as well, in my opinion, and, most importantly, GOT BEAT BY BILL STEWART!. Whatever this funk Auburn is going through right now starts at the top! Period. Right now, a majority of the fanbase is numb to the losses, however I think they are looking more towards the fireworks that will go off immediately after the Iron Bowl. What fireworks? We'll all have to wait and see, but it sure is going to be a show. Tub gone, offensive assisitant(s) gone, my man Muschamp coming in????? (Jeopardy music)
In the meantime, I'm still sporting the Auburn threads and taking my lumps. Josh Bynes is still a beast in my book as is Antonio Coleman. Fannin, Tate, and Lester are workhorses when used effectively.
Auburn has some guys coming back from injuries at key positions and it will be a matter of playing a complete game on both sides of the ball. Ole Miss is a dangerous 4-4 team and is heading in the opposite (positive) direction of the Tigers right now. Jevan Snead is a good QB and will only get better.
Fool me once shame on me, fool me with 4 losses out of the past 5 games....shame on me again. Not this time. Save the "keys to the game" jargon this week. I've said it all year that Ole Miss will either beat Auburn or Alabama--they squeaked out a win in Tuscaloosa. So, I am sticking to my guns....Auburn hasn't given me any reason to think they will beat a surging Rebel team that has a coach that plays to win football games.
OVER my beloved
Sorry, just being objective here. Will I be happy with a win? Yes. Would I be shocked? Nope, its Ole Miss. If it makes anyone feel better I think Auburn BEATS Georgia or Alabama though--just the way ol' Tub does things. If you can remember, it's the "loses games he isn't supposed to, wins games he isn't supposed to" coaching style.
Other games:
#1 Texas over #7 Texas Tech
**ESPN'S GameDay is in the state of Texas, again, covering the Longhorns again.
**Texas has been through a gauntlet of teams over the past 3 weeks and most likely their final test on their road to the BCS title game
**Will be a "must see" game with G. Harrell and C. McCoy throwing the ball all over the yard!
**Texas Tech was an underdog last week and put up 63 points--on the road!
#8 Florida over #6 Georgia
**Urban Meyer will beat the dawg out of Georgia if given the opportunity after Mark Richt's little "storm the field" stunt last year.
**Florida is just a better team in my opinion and fast as all heck!
**With a win, the Gators have an inside track to the SEC Championship game and plays Texas in the BCS title game.
#15 Florida State over Georgia Tech
**This is a game that could go either way, but I think FSU is playing well enough right now to get the win
**Either team may find themselves winning the ACC.
Auburn travels to mining country Thursday night to take on West Virginia. Coming off bye week, the Tigers will be front and center on national television taking on the Mountianeers.
Boy, did Auburn need a bye week; I needed them to have one as well (nerves and stuff). The injuries should be healed up for the most part, but the question still remains on the offense.
Auburn still has to find an identity on offense; they have nothing to hang their helmet on right now. Every week it seems that Auburn cuts the playbook's size down. It's week 8 and they claim to have cut it down again. How much more could be left to cut out!? Is it a pamphlet now? LOL
I said it for the Arkansas game and was wrong, but I truly expect to see more under center this week versus West Virginia. I expect to see more smash mouth football and being run heavy. What makes me believe that? Heck, I don't know, I just do. Brad Lester is healthy again as is Tristan Davis; Ben Tate is still a little banged up still, but he is a workhorse. With that said, the stable of running backs should be ready to roll. Now, will Mario Fannin get more touches!!?? Well, they say "yes" every week, but that's been a fib every week as each game ends. There goes that "coach speak" again. Fannin needs to have the football being one of, if not the, best athletes on the AU squad. Auburn needs to run the ball, but they need to be able to go to the air, too, and do it effectively. Pass defense is WVU's bigger weakness.
Kodi Burns is the man now and the sole starter. Funny thing here on Chris Todd....he's hurt (shoulder), the light seemed to have just come on to the coaching staff on that issue. It's funny that everyone else knew that but the people that should know--the coaches. I don't think you will see Trotter and/or Caudle if Burns can play (doesn't get injured). I think it is stupid to pull the red shirt of Trotter like they did Burns last year just for spot play. Trotter plays, he will be the main man in my opinion. Caudle...why couldn't he go in last year when Cox was a walking wounded at times? Waste a Burns red shirt instead....hmmm. If needed, Trotter will be the #2--I hope he's not needed, however, I think Trotter may be the best to "run" this offense/Auburn offense at this time.
The Auburn defense has a big advantage over the Montaineers with Paul Rhoads being the defensive coordinator. If you can remember, it was his Pitt defense that upset #2 WVU last year in Morgantown when they were destined for the BCS title game. Steve Slaten has left, but Pat White and Noel Devine still remain. White got a concussion in the Syracuse game two weeks ago and is noted to be ready to go. Rhoads and the AU defense will have their hands full, but should be able to use their speed as an advantage and will need to be able to tackle in space.
Now, the dreadful game breakdown (as I have to soon make my pick on the game): WVU: Keep the AU defense guessing, stop the run and make AU throw the football to win
AU: SCORE ON OFFENSE, DEVELOP AN OFFENSE, contain Pat White and Noel Devine
In my opinion, this is a must win for Auburn for so many reasons. Also, I think it is a must win for Tuberville for so many more reasons if nothing more but to calm the seas. An AU win, a good win with offense production, may be just what AU needs to get something rolling. Doing it on ESPN can only help. A loss, gosh almighty it will get ugly and AU's bowl chances dwindle dramatically. It will not be pretty if AU loses to WVU.
(sigh) I debated this one, I really did, as Auburn hasn't given me any reason to believe the offense has gotten better...
My pick...there will still be misery and disappointment on the offensive side for Auburn, but I believe they get the win in Morgantown. I just don't know how ugly of a win it will be.
What tha'!? As you can see and hear above, Tommy Tuberville came out swinging towards the media in his weekly press conference after Auburn's bye week. Very un-Tub'ish to do so I might add. It is/was the first time I have ever seen Tub's in that element, especially with the media.
Ever since the dreadful loss to Arkansas, it had been swirling that contract talks were in place to have Tubs step aside at the end of the season, he was tired of coaching, he "lost his fire" to recruit, and his health was on the downswing. He wasted no time in setting the record straight. What's odd about this outburst by Tuberville is that it was unprovoked by the media folks in attendance. He brought it up himself and then addressed it. I was like..."wow".
So, what does it mean? I don't know. It could mean that he was indeed just setting the record straight on the rumors going around. However, not many, if any, coaches address rumors and innuendo that take place in the media. It's easy to throw stones at someone/something when things are going well and speculate. Or, it could mean..."Fire me, because I am not leaving." In that case, there is/would be a hefty buyout payable to Tubs. Either could be debated all day long.
In any case, it gave me chills just listening to it; it fired me up. It sent a message to recruits and current Auburn committments as well as the fanbase. I just want it to carry on to the field for the remainder of the year. I would love for Auburn to have that intensity on offense that Tub had in his presser. On the other hand, the Auburn nation has heard so much "Tub coach speak" this year, they don't know what to believe anymore.
I have reasons I love Tuberville and want him to stay at Auburn, yet I have reasons why I wouldn't mind a new head coach & some new assistants. We'll see how the rest of the season pans out.
Remember this quote from Tuberville on 10/20/08, per his press conference: "I just wanted to let you know. I’ve been here 10 years and I plan on being here 10 more. I’m looking forward to it.”
When Tuberville was asked by the media in 1999 about the rumors of him leaving Ole Miss for the Auburn head job, he said: "The only way I am leaving (Ole Miss) is in a pine box (coffin, dead)." He left days after. You decide if he means it this time.
--Thanks, Bobby. You know where the key is, just lock up the place when you leave.
Everybody sing a long now...Wasted away again in Tommy Tuberville, Searchin' for Auburn's lost offense assault. Most folks claim that there's one man to blame, But they know it's somebody's fault.
I appreciate all the thoughts and concerns friends sent me over the loss, by the way. You guys are great.
Irony. How ironic. Ironically, the game between the Tigers and the Razorbacks couldn't get more ironic. You follow me? However, all the laughs are on Arkansas' side of the table. You recap it herebecause I can't anymore.
I have allowed the rather small loss to Arky marinate for one complete day now. Gosh almighty what a whirlwind.
Tubs has been full of coach speak in 2008, but the one thing he was shootin' striaght about was "we're gonna stay with this (spread) offense". If you had asked me, I would have told you that is the last thing I'd expect to see, especially after firing the guy that sweats the spread offense in Tony Franklin. Gametime hits and low and behold Tubs wasn't kidding...Auburn came out in the spread offense. I really was shocked, I really was. First series, 3 and out. Nothing different, Franklin is lol'ing somewhere.
No offensive continuity, careless mistakes still being made, receivers still dropping passes, and we didn't run the football like I anticipated--try only having 56 yards rushing. However, the "Kodi Burns Coalition" of fans got a chance to see him play. He played well at times and had some dropped balls by receivers, but I believe the Kodi fans out there believe he isn't the answer to this "Chinese Fire Drill" type of play we have going on right now. I love Burns, always have, but he isn't there yet no matter which way you look at it. However, it is the best Auburn's got. If he is the future of Auburn, let's roll with him.
Where the heck is Mario Fannin!? One snap for a guy who is a weapon. He has hardly been out of the holster. Why? CTT: "It's my fault". Really?!
It's funny how Todd's shoulder wasn't (directly) an issue when Franklin was here, but now "it just isn't there." Odd. Todd is a great guy it seems and the man just wants to play football. It's unfortunate that he has a shoulder issue, but he is not a SEC caliber QB.
Steven Ensminger.....'03, '08. Ironic.
I mentioned it in my preview that Arky would move the football, yes? I mentioned that they were the worst team in the SEC, yes? Thanks, just checking. I picked Auburn to win because I was a sunshine pumper for a gloomy situation and I, like everyone else, thought they would win. Heck, what do I know though?
The Auburn defense gave up 400 yards. Yes. However, enough is enough and they are practically playing both ways. Fatique starts to set in around play 50 when the offense only gives you 3 plays to rest and on the field for 6-7 minutes at a time. AU is really banged up on the defensive side. Marks has a nagging ankle injury as does Goggans, Carter is in a boot with a ankle injury, Powers a hammy pull, and Blackmon, oh Blackmon, is probably done for the year with a wrist injury. Neiko Thorpe started as a true frosh and got a pick, but he got picked on all night. I was happy the way he played; he's gonna be a good'un. It is a shame that a great defense is being wasted and getting no help.
Welcome back Tristan Davis--stay healthy. Believe this, Josh Bynes is a beast, NFL linebacker, and 10x's above his linebacker peers with less snaps. Fear him. I'm a fan.
Now, as I conclude on the game thoughts, Tubs is now looking at OTHER/MORE ways to find an offense. He is considering giving Barrett Trotter, true freshman, a shot at taking command. Sit down for this....IF Auburn wants to continue to run the "spread" offense, Barrett Trotter knows the offense better than an QB at Auburn University right now--he knows the offense like the back of his hand! I believe that. What?! He's a frosh, this is SEC football, that's crazy, you've lost it--all true. However, could the offense get worse? Ding. The only downfall...he plays one snap his redshirt is history and could be a wasted year. We'll see. I'd put $ on Trotter being the dude next year for the Auburn Tigers. But, what do I know.
Quick question--Why hasn't Auburn recruited a SEC QB? Sorry, I think it's a good question.
Now, Coach Tuberville. You love him, you love him not. Boy, he is feeling the heat and rightfully so.
You love him because:
"He wins games he isnt supposed to"
He's won 50 games over the past 5 years for Auburn
Beaten Bama for six straight
Stability for 10 years
2004 season
Family guy, approachable, media friendly
Runs a clean program
You love him not because:
He loses games he isn't supposed to (Miss St, USF, Vandy, Arky most recent)
"I want to be at Auburn as long as Auburn wants me here"
The yearly Tubs to _______ University?
"Tubershell"
One SEC title in 10 years (see: Loses games not supposed to) Boooooo! lol.
So, is it time for Tubs to go? I don't know. Is it time for a new staff? I don't know. A bigger part of me says "Yes", however. I have been a Tubs supporter and fan since the time he has been at AU. What he has turned AU into is nothing short of remarkable. One bad year and it's time for him to go after all he's done? That can be debated.
It is evident that loyalty runs deep on the staff down there and that is not necessarily a bad thing in SOME cases. Though, at times, right now, it seems to hindering AU (see: can't keep an offense coordinator, little player development at some positions). In my honest opinion, Auburn should not be in the predicament they are in today having the 10 year stability they've had with no probation, etc. So, what is the problem?
Is Tubs on the hot seat? I say the seat is pretty warm. Can he save face? Yes, he's done it before. Is enough enough though? Could be. Is/would the grass be greener on the other side with a new head coach and staff? You never know till after the fact.
**My conclusion...last night, I was "fire'em all!" One day after, a level headed thought..."I think it may be that time." I think in the end, Tubs is at Auburn in '09 with major staff shakeups UNLESS there is a fish out there that takes the bait and shows interest.
So, if Tubs were to leave/be replaced, who should replace him? Ricky's .02....Will Muschamp. Why? He doesn't have any head coaching experience! Tis true, but he has all the qualities and potential to be a great one. He is a proven leader, intense, doesn't accept mediocrity, a good recruiter, young, full of energy, and knows the SEC. A winner. Plus, he has ties at/with Auburn University. My man, Muschamp, will either be at Auburn, Tennessee, or Clemson--after he wins a ring at Texas of course. Muschamp being at Auburn is most likely just dream of mine, but, gosh almighty, I'd be giddy. I just know his staff would be a spitting image of him.
No excuses here. Auburn is not a good football team right now, but they have the opportunity to save face for the rest of the season. With that said, I'll still sport the orange and blue, preferably Under Armour, threads.
Amid the Franklin firing, uneasiness, and uncertainty is running wild on the Plains. However, Auburn still has a game to play Saturday with the Arkansas Razorbacks coming to town. Thoughts swirl about what Auburn will look like offensively, but the off the field stories lead the pack.
The happy feet, yet offensive guru, Bobby Petrino returns to Auburn for the first time after leaving his offensive coordinator position in 2002 for a head job at Louisville. A small stint at Louisville and a couple minutes with the Atlanta Falcons landed him in Arkansas yelling “woo pig sooie”. It has been media whirlwind reliving the happenings back in 2003.
On Thursday, Tuberville tabbed Steve Ensminger as the interim play caller for the Tigers. Ironically, it was Ensminger, along with Hugh Nall, that called the shots in ’03….the infamous “Nallminger” offense. That duo didn’t produce a Tiger touchdown until game three and finished with a 7-5 record—almost the end of the Tub’s era.
The Razorback offense comes into Jordan Hare only scoring 10 points in the past two games, ranked 11th in scoring offense in the SEC, and an offensive line giving up a league leading 21 sacks. Contrastingly, they move the football up and down the field, but don’t have the points or the wins to show for it. Weird, huh?
Defensively, they have holes—a lot of them. Many past opponents have exploited that. Hence being ranked last in scoring defense in the SEC.
Who knows what the Auburn offense will put on the field Saturday, but I am sure it will be run heavy to set up the pass-- smash mouth football. I foresee an offense full of excitement and looking to make a statement. I expect the line to be aggressive as ever, opening up holes for the backs (see: 1st half of the Vandy game). Mario Fannin’s return to the backfield should provide an extra boost along with the possible return of Brad Lester; Ben Tate will continue to show up for work. I believe Burns will get A LOT more snaps.
The Auburn defense got a little banged up against Vandy and most likely will start a freshman cornerback, Neiko Thorpe. They will be tested by Casey Dick.
Keys to the game: Arky: Keep pressure on Auburn’s defense with the run/pass balance, play good defense without giving up the big play. Get Casey Dick hurt and play the back up QB! (Backup QB’s have handed AU their two losses this year)
AU: Execute on offense & score points. Period. Contain the arm of Casey Dick and stop the run—bend, but don’t break. Where have the special teams gone? Make an extra point, kick a field goal….somethin’!
Auburn protects the house….**#20 AU 24 over ARK 17**
Other games: Last week, 4-1 #1 Oklahoma over # 5 Texas **ESPN’s GameDay—Red River Shootout **Oklahoma’s offense and Sam Bradford are fun to watch. Muschamp is still my boy; Applewhite is still beloved by Bama fans. **Colt McCoy leads the Longhorns in rushing. What?! Miss St over #13 Vandy *Must win for Miss St.; Cinderella loses its slipper. #10 Georgia over Tennessee **Hmmm, very tempting, but…Fulmer gets kicked in the Vols again; Redemption for UGA from ’07. #22 UNC over Notre Dame **Butch Davis outcoaches Weis #4 LSU over #11 Florida **First time two previous national champs meet in 18 years. The home team has NEVER lost **Ricky Jean_Francois ='s stooopid! , but I’m sticking with the “Hat” on this one. #3 Mizzou over #17 Oklahoma St **Another offense that is easy on the eyes with Chase Daniel—will be a rout! #7 Texas Tech over Nebraska **Eww!
Anxiety, some happiness, and anger is the state of the Auburn nation right now over what occured today.
Auburn's Tommy Tuberville delivered a shot heard around the country early Wednesday afternoon by firing offensive coordinator, Tony Franklin. Tuberville is widely known for going through a coordinator or two in his tenure at Auburn, but it the middle of a season, just three days prior to a game?! Very interesting.
After the loss to Vandy, Tuberville vowed changes to his offense in search for answers to get the offense on track. Sunday morning and afternoon came and went with much uncertaintyof what the changes would be--none came about. Even then, many thought Franklin may be on his way out. Nothing changed. Auburn hit the practice field Tuesday and it was like two-a-days again with the intensity, yelling, and the offense working at a faster pace. In that practice, Franklin came out a new man, inspired, full of energy, and on a war path. He was more animated for some reason and more involved in the up tempo practice. All was well and everyone was all on the same page, right? The "old" Tony Franklin was back! Well, where did he go?!
Someone (coach) didn't like the "new" Franklin taking control, eh?
Tuberville came out in his weekly presser still saying Auburn is still in the spread offense business, Franklin is the man and the offensive coordinator, and, for the six week in a row, reiterated "we gonna make this work." Check out the video...
Auburn: The new Tony Franklin?
Two words: COACH SPEAK! No ordinary fan will ever now what REALLY happened on the Plains in regards to this firing, but I have my theories.
Franklin seemed to be a snap hire back in December. He came in with a scoring maching offense and pumped the Auburn nation and players full of adrenaline. Installed his offense in approx. three week for the Chic-Fil-A. While it was not his full playbook, it was a hybrid offense with mixture of the west coast offense and the spread--it worked and Auburn beat Clemson. Fandom built over the spring and summer months of the potent spread offense--it flopped. Why?
My theory: Notice Franklin came into Auburn alone into a "Band of Brothers" coaching staff where loyalty and friendships take the cake. A new coordinator from the outside bringing in a new sexy offense vs. Auburn's tradtional pounding offense was going to be a tough sell. Mix that with other aprehensive offensive coaches and you have the 2008 Auburn offense as it sits today, minus a coordinator. Franklin's offense was doomed from the get go in my opinion. It didnt produce at AU, but could it have? I think so, Tubs would have allowed it. Didn't Tuberville say over and over and over that it will take time? Hmmm...
Tuberville thought he did what's best for Auburn, its players, and its program as a whole by firing Franklin. I trust that judgement, but not necessarily agree with it. Ok, that is fine and dandy, but why now? Why fire him when you are on record as being "all in" with the spread, "Tony is the hardest working coach on the staff", "it's going to take time", and "we are going to make this work"? Coach speak, maybe? Then, Tubs comes out in his presser today and says Auburn is STILL STAYING WITH THE SPREAD OFFENSE (What!?) and that the firing was about lack of production (fact there), but no "personal conflicts". Why fire a coordinator that is said to be a monk of the spread offense, fire him, and still want to keep his offense?!
Yeah reet, ask Franklin about no personal conficts.
My conclusion: It has not been a good day for Auburn and it could possibly come out as a worse day for Tubs when this is all said and done. I love the program and the things he has done for Auburn over the years, but this may be the final round. Tubs was and has been a fan favorite (they saved his job in 2003), but fans that really keep up with Auburn football really know what is going on down there and what was/is the main player(s) behind the Franklin debacle (see: Band of Brothers). Those faithful may be falling by the wayside. Tubs' saving grace might be pulling off one over the Tide, but, then again, is it time for new blood at Auburn? Differences in opinion, differences in coaching philosophy, and conflicts of personalities was the recipe of the occurence on Wednesday afternoon. How 'bout a better interview process then to keep from a PR disaster?!
However, I am a fan of the orange & blue. I will be there with every win and dwell with every loss while being objective as possible along the way because that is what I do here.
For anyone interested, here was my preview for the Vandy vs. Auburn game and the "oh me" came through. It has been three days since the debacle and I, along with the Auburn nation, still wonder what happened?! You have to laugh, but it's no ha-ha matter.
AU went away from what was beating Vandy to death in the first half by running the football. Vandy made adjustments to stop the run, Auburn didn't adjust. Hence the second half. Why? Who knows. Auburn's problems are much more indepth than the offense they are running, its more than Tony Franklin, and it's more than "not having the athletes" to run the Franklin system. It goes much deeper than that, in my not so professional opinion.
I think fans, etc. are seeing now what the effects of subpar recruiting at certain spots can do. I think the offensive coaches are on different pages as far as coaching philosophies go. I think it's very weird to hire a an offensive coordinator and not allow that hire to bring along another coach that is familiar with that coordinator's offense--key positions don't get developed to fit that offensive system. I think Auburn & Tommy Tuberville are a crossroads right now, searching how to fix this offense or lack thereof. What will come of it now and at the end of the season? Stay tuned.
Auburn is struggling, but in no way should they lose to Vandy. No excuses. However, they are as inconsistent as you can be right now in the kicking game, special teams, and penalty wise. Those are elements Auburn has traditionally took much pride in.
Anyway, a loss is a loss. Can Auburn right the ship and finish strong? I think so, but I'll have to see it first. The offense has to produce at some point because the defense will grow weary at some point (see: Vandy game). They are a first down (LSU) and a 3-point field goal (Vandy) away from being 6-0 right now, however, they are two plays away (Miss St & Tennessee) from being 2-4. Crazy.
One of my all time favorite movies tells it all so well. Enjoy!
Is nothing more than a sea of orange and blue, constant noise coming from every direction, and just a wee bit different atmosphere than our typical evening stroll on our neighborhood street.
With that said, Lauren and I took Davis to his first visit to Auburn University for his first Auburn Tiger football game. I always said I wouldn't take him until he was at least one year old, but we see how long that held up! As big of an Auburn fan I am and as uptight as I get at games, having to entertain an 8 month old while the game was going on would be glorious.
We hit Hwy 280 towards Lee County Saturday about 9:30 a.m. not knowing what the day would bring. Would it be hot, would Davis be cranky all day being off his normal "schedule", and, most importantly, would Auburn win the game!?
Davis, full clad in his blue pinstriped "onesie" with "War Eagle" across his chest was ready to go, talking up a storm until we hit Childersburg and his was out like a light, resting up for the big SEC showdown with the Vols.
Got to Auburn, found a parking spot, gave Davis a swig of milk, and we were off to stroll around Auburn. First stop was Chik Fil A for mom and dad to carb up and fill him up with some rice cereal. Funny story here....rice cereal has/needs to be mixed with water to be eaten. I ordered our food and drinks, but for some reason I thought Lauren wanted a Sprite as that is what she drinks for the most part. Got to the table with the food, etc. and Davis had started eating some baby food peaches. Insert the need for water here....Lauren asked to put the "water" into the rice and mix it up...I did and all was well. Davis takes a few bites and Lauren takes a sip out of her drink....low and behold it was SPRITE and we mixed SPRITE with Davis' rice cereal! Ha ha! I had totally forgot I had gotten that instead of water. So, Davis got his first shot of Coke products! Ricky 1 - Auburn 0
Left C-F-A to do some shopping as game time got closer. While Lauren is looking around for a shirt, Davis is talking up a "War Eagle" storm in the store and turning heads left and right! Note: Davis was a hit with the coeds...young and old! They were "aww'ing" and "how cute'ing/precious'ing" him left and right! He remained cool and continued to suck on his pacifier.
We made our way towards the stadium while stopping at some Auburn landmarks along the way to take some pics as Davis began to hit the "nap time" wall! A quick adjustment to recline the stroller and he was out!
We picked up Davis' ticket from Lauren's brother's tailgate, took a pic with some Auburn majorettes (as he was asleep). About 2 p.m, we headed into Jordan Hare Stadium. Would the stadium be too loud, would he be restless, and, again, would Auburn win the dadgum game!?
Game time was a upon us, Davis got an occasional bouncing from Lauren, a couple strolls to test the "is it nap time" meter, and even a quick meal of milk and squash during the game.
One seat over, I was stressed as Auburn's lack of consistent offensive production was still MIA. After the first touchdown toss, I was like "all right we have arrived"! Little did I know how the game would end. Sheesh, nail biter, eh?
Well, Auburn beat the Vols in a pivotal SEC game (might have been the last straw for Fulmer), but the game ball would have to go to Davis because he was a prime time player on Saturday and you really couldn't have asked him to be any better! He was introduced with SEC football with chants of "War Eagle" and the sound of "Rocky Top", got splashes of bourbon sprinkled on him from afar (no, he really did), and sported the smell of meat being smoked on a grill. He even got a post game treat with dinner at Loco's Pub with the the brother-in-laws and one set of grandparents who were at the game as well. While there, Davis displayed his arm strength and precision by throwing anything he could get his hand on across the table.
The day was a success as I thought about it on the late night drive back. It was something Davis will never remember, but something I (and Lauren) will never forget. Lord willing, we will be able to take in many more Auburn gameday experiences together and many more Tiger "dubya's"!
Yet, a program must have quality recruiting and hire good coaches to succeed. Right now, Gene Chizik has done that only being on the Auburn job for approximately 2 months--in my opinion.
Davis, "the cool dude", is quickly approaching the one year mark! He'll be
As previously mentioned, the 
Then, you have the 
Well, I went with my heart picking Auburn over West Virginia, but my gut was telling me what would happen. In the first half of the WVU game, I actually thought some other team had stole the Auburn offense's road white uni's! The offense showed signs of life off the heels of two interceptions from the defense. 
