http://auburntigers.cstv.com/sports/m-basebl/spec-rel/093009aaa.html
9.30.2009
Walk the Walk
http://blog.al.com/auburnbeat/2009/09/ut_tells_auburn_to_nix_tiger_w.html
Where does UT get off thinking they can ban the Tiger Walk? We started it, others copied and then they think can ban original thought? Wrong. The only student-athletes they need to worry about being safe Saturday night are the ones in puke orange...
Where does UT get off thinking they can ban the Tiger Walk? We started it, others copied and then they think can ban original thought? Wrong. The only student-athletes they need to worry about being safe Saturday night are the ones in puke orange...
Re: 4* Craig Sanders
I didn't think Auburn got anyone that Sabear wanted? Much less someone who committed to the Tahd.
9.29.2009
So Your Pro Record Counts Too?
http://www.secsports.com/news/sec-week-5-game-previews.aspx
Lane Kiffin is in his first season at Tennessee and in his third season overall with a record of 7-17 (.292). The Volunteers' offensive coordinator is Jim Chaney and Monte Kiffin serves as the defensive coordinator.
I didn't realize you were supposed to lump your pro coaching record with your college. Someone at the SEC office in Birmingham needs to get it together. No one cares what Kiffin did as a Raider. He deserves a pass on that one.
Lane Kiffin is in his first season at Tennessee and in his third season overall with a record of 7-17 (.292). The Volunteers' offensive coordinator is Jim Chaney and Monte Kiffin serves as the defensive coordinator.
I didn't realize you were supposed to lump your pro coaching record with your college. Someone at the SEC office in Birmingham needs to get it together. No one cares what Kiffin did as a Raider. He deserves a pass on that one.
9.28.2009
9.25.2009
WRAS picks the SEC - Week 4 (Saturday)
Ball State (+31) @ Auburn
Walt Flanagan: It's bizarro world as 2008's most inept team (Auburn) versus a team that went undefeated in the 2008 regular season (Ball State) meet up. The roles have reversed as Auburn is clicking better at this point of the season than anyone could have imagined while Ball State looks pathetic and could be the first team in 1A history to go from 12-0 to 0-12...Auburn 48 - Ball State 7
Morris Fenderbaum: Auburn 59 - Ball State 13
Mickey Goldmill: Mickey couldn’t be happier with the play of our beloved Tigers to date this year. Mickey believes it is apparent that this squad has the “it” factor. They have the team chemistry on which special seasons are made. They are not the most talented team in the league and there will likely be issues with depth as the season continues. But this team truly makes Mickey feel that “it’s great to be an Auburn Tiger!” Expect AU to come out clicking on all cylinders, get up early and get some much needed playing time to the reserves...AU 49 – BSU 17
Ohio (+20.5) @ Tennessee
Walt Flanagan: "The Vols are back! We got within 10 points of Florida! Kiffin is a genius!" The times they are a changin'...UT 42 - Ohio 10
Morris Fenderbaum: Tennessee 49 - Ohio 10
Mickey Goldmill: Mickey doesn’t give credit for moral victories.
Apparently, UT got one in the moral victory column last week. Granted, they played the Gaytors much closer than Mickey expected but the jury is still out on the Vols. Easy win this week...Vols 35 – Bobcats 14
LSU (-14) @ Mississippi State
Walt Flanagan: Bully's got something going on as that was a good win over Vandy. They'll keep this one closer than the experts think (for a while at least) as I'm not sure if LSU is taking anyone seriously right now...LSU 31 - MSU 15
Morris Fenderbaum: LSU 34 - MSU 17
Mickey Goldmill: This one should give us an idea where LSU is since your Auburn Tigers handled Mullen’s Bulldog bunch 49 – 24. Mickey expects something similar from the Bayou Bengals less a few points...Corndogs 35 – MSU 17
Vanderbilt (-7.5) @ Rice
Walt Flanagan: Oh, Vandy, what is going on with you? You had a chance last week to get a SEC win at home and you blew it. Now you have to go on the road and you're expected to win by more than 7.5? No way...Vandy 24 - Rice 21
Morris Fenderbaum: Vandy 23 - Rice 9
Mickey Goldmill: After a trip to the Music City Bowl last year, the Commodore faithful had high hopes coming into the ’09 season. Things aren’t looking good for Vandy so far as Dan Mullen got his first conference victory over the ‘Dores last week. Rice won 10 games last year but if UAB can beat Rice, as they did in this season’s opening weekend, then Vandy can beat Rice. Did you know that Rice University in Houston only has 3,100 undergrads? Vandy wins the battle of the privates schools...28 – 17
Arkansas (+15.5) @ SPUAT
Walt Flanagan: Let's see, one team has no defense and the other lives on shoving the ball down your throat even more than they need oxygen or free Dodge Chargers. Squeal like a pig for me...SPUAT 45 - Arkansas 20
Morris Fenderbaum: Process 38 - Arkansas 20
Mickey Goldmill: Expect the turds to put heavy pressure on Arky QB Ryan Mallet much like Carolina did to Snead last night. SPUAT should flex their muscles and have their way with the Hogs. Turds going away 38 – 14. The hype builds, Mickey pukes.
Florida (-22) @ Kentucky
Walt Flanagan: Am I any less convinced that UF is going to win the SEC after last week's game versus Tennessee? No...Florida 42 - Kentucky 17
Morris Fenderbaum: Florida 43 - Kentucky 16
Mickey Goldmill: UK has been known to give Florida trouble in years past, never to capitalize. Mickey expects a convincing win from a bruised up Gaytor squad coming off last weeks physical game with UT. Mickey sees this one...35 -10
Arizona State (+12.5) @ Georgia
Walt Flanagan: It's bizarro world as 2008's most inept team (Auburn) versus a team that went undefeated in the 2008 regular season (Ball State) meet up. The roles have reversed as Auburn is clicking better at this point of the season than anyone could have imagined while Ball State looks pathetic and could be the first team in 1A history to go from 12-0 to 0-12...Auburn 48 - Ball State 7
Morris Fenderbaum: Auburn 59 - Ball State 13
Mickey Goldmill: Mickey couldn’t be happier with the play of our beloved Tigers to date this year. Mickey believes it is apparent that this squad has the “it” factor. They have the team chemistry on which special seasons are made. They are not the most talented team in the league and there will likely be issues with depth as the season continues. But this team truly makes Mickey feel that “it’s great to be an Auburn Tiger!” Expect AU to come out clicking on all cylinders, get up early and get some much needed playing time to the reserves...AU 49 – BSU 17
Ohio (+20.5) @ Tennessee
Walt Flanagan: "The Vols are back! We got within 10 points of Florida! Kiffin is a genius!" The times they are a changin'...UT 42 - Ohio 10
Morris Fenderbaum: Tennessee 49 - Ohio 10
Mickey Goldmill: Mickey doesn’t give credit for moral victories.
Apparently, UT got one in the moral victory column last week. Granted, they played the Gaytors much closer than Mickey expected but the jury is still out on the Vols. Easy win this week...Vols 35 – Bobcats 14
LSU (-14) @ Mississippi State
Walt Flanagan: Bully's got something going on as that was a good win over Vandy. They'll keep this one closer than the experts think (for a while at least) as I'm not sure if LSU is taking anyone seriously right now...LSU 31 - MSU 15
Morris Fenderbaum: LSU 34 - MSU 17
Mickey Goldmill: This one should give us an idea where LSU is since your Auburn Tigers handled Mullen’s Bulldog bunch 49 – 24. Mickey expects something similar from the Bayou Bengals less a few points...Corndogs 35 – MSU 17
Vanderbilt (-7.5) @ Rice
Walt Flanagan: Oh, Vandy, what is going on with you? You had a chance last week to get a SEC win at home and you blew it. Now you have to go on the road and you're expected to win by more than 7.5? No way...Vandy 24 - Rice 21
Morris Fenderbaum: Vandy 23 - Rice 9
Mickey Goldmill: After a trip to the Music City Bowl last year, the Commodore faithful had high hopes coming into the ’09 season. Things aren’t looking good for Vandy so far as Dan Mullen got his first conference victory over the ‘Dores last week. Rice won 10 games last year but if UAB can beat Rice, as they did in this season’s opening weekend, then Vandy can beat Rice. Did you know that Rice University in Houston only has 3,100 undergrads? Vandy wins the battle of the privates schools...28 – 17
Arkansas (+15.5) @ SPUAT
Walt Flanagan: Let's see, one team has no defense and the other lives on shoving the ball down your throat even more than they need oxygen or free Dodge Chargers. Squeal like a pig for me...SPUAT 45 - Arkansas 20
Morris Fenderbaum: Process 38 - Arkansas 20
Mickey Goldmill: Expect the turds to put heavy pressure on Arky QB Ryan Mallet much like Carolina did to Snead last night. SPUAT should flex their muscles and have their way with the Hogs. Turds going away 38 – 14. The hype builds, Mickey pukes.
Florida (-22) @ Kentucky
Walt Flanagan: Am I any less convinced that UF is going to win the SEC after last week's game versus Tennessee? No...Florida 42 - Kentucky 17
Morris Fenderbaum: Florida 43 - Kentucky 16
Mickey Goldmill: UK has been known to give Florida trouble in years past, never to capitalize. Mickey expects a convincing win from a bruised up Gaytor squad coming off last weeks physical game with UT. Mickey sees this one...35 -10
Arizona State (+12.5) @ Georgia
Walt Flanagan: THIS IS THE DAWGS! THIS IS SANFORD, BABY! THIS IS HOW WE DO IT FOR THE DAWGS! GO GUUUUUUOOOOOOORJJJJJJA! WHOO! WE'RE GETTIN' THE RED AND BLACK GOING RIGHT NOW! WHITE BASECOAT! WHITE BASECOAT! WE GET RED GOIN' THEN WE GET THE BLACK GOIN'! IT REALLY SHINES WHEN YOU GET THE WHITE ON THE BASE THEN YOU GET THE RED THEN YOU GET THE BLAAAAAAAAACK! AND IT POPS! IT POPS LIKE RENNIE CURRAN ON A TACKLE!
http://dcnlive.com/videos/516This
You're welcome. Go Dawgs...UGay 42 - Arizona State 21
Morris Fenderbaum: Georgia 30 - Arizona State 14
Mickey Goldmill: Seriously, what was UGay thinking whey they scheduled Okie State, Arizona State and Tech as their OOC games? Add the usual SEC gauntlet to these three (plus Tennessee Tech) and the outcome can’t be good. Kudos for providing bang for my entertainment buck though. The Dawgs should hunker down and win this one...Hairy Dawgs 35 – Sun Devils 21
Last Week:
Walt (7-2 straight up, 5-3 versus the spread)
Morris (9-0, 4-4)
Mickey (8-1, 3-5)
Total:
Walt (22-5, 15-7)
Morris (26-1, 14-8)
Mickey (24-3, 10-12)
Bammer of the Week
http://www.churchofsaban.com/2009/09
There is no fucking way that this is a real Auburn fan in that video. Bammers are even more disturbed that I thought.
9.24.2009
WRAS Picks the SEC - Week 4 (Thursday)
Ole Miss (-3) @ South Carolina (Thursday)
Walt Flanagan: I have no idea what to think about this game. Top 5 teams with Mythical National Championship aspirations should be able to handle this type of game. The only thing is, I don't think Ole Miss is a top 5 team and they have no business being in the MNC discussion. On the other hand, I think South Carolina sucks...Ole Miss 27 - USC 17
Morris Fenderbaum: South Carolina 21 - Ole Miss 20 CANNONBAAAAALLLLL!!!!!
Mickey Goldmill: A great match-up to start week number four. Since 1992 and the divisional split of the SEC, Ole Miss is the only program which has yet to win the West (UK, SC and VU have not won the East). Is this the year Colonel Reb is going to claim their stake as a contender on the college football scene? Mickey is skeptical. Mickey was in Jackson yesterday and while having lunch picked up a local sports paper. This thing was evidently a month or so old and had more info on the local dirt track than college football. Two items of note from this paper:
1) This is the first year Ole Miss has ever sold out of season tickets at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium;
2) Miss St. set a record for season ticket sales at around 41k.
Sad. Sad. Sad. Mickey is thinking that due to their dominating win over Texas Tech in last year’s Cotton Bowl the Rebs are receiving more than their share of national and regional hype. Jevan Snead is no doubt the real deal, but if they can’t win the league with Eli Manning, Mickey doubts they can do it with Snead. Look for the “upset” tonight...Cocks over Rebs 36 - 30
Walt Flanagan: I have no idea what to think about this game. Top 5 teams with Mythical National Championship aspirations should be able to handle this type of game. The only thing is, I don't think Ole Miss is a top 5 team and they have no business being in the MNC discussion. On the other hand, I think South Carolina sucks...Ole Miss 27 - USC 17
Morris Fenderbaum: South Carolina 21 - Ole Miss 20 CANNONBAAAAALLLLL!!!!!
Mickey Goldmill: A great match-up to start week number four. Since 1992 and the divisional split of the SEC, Ole Miss is the only program which has yet to win the West (UK, SC and VU have not won the East). Is this the year Colonel Reb is going to claim their stake as a contender on the college football scene? Mickey is skeptical. Mickey was in Jackson yesterday and while having lunch picked up a local sports paper. This thing was evidently a month or so old and had more info on the local dirt track than college football. Two items of note from this paper:
1) This is the first year Ole Miss has ever sold out of season tickets at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium;
2) Miss St. set a record for season ticket sales at around 41k.
Sad. Sad. Sad. Mickey is thinking that due to their dominating win over Texas Tech in last year’s Cotton Bowl the Rebs are receiving more than their share of national and regional hype. Jevan Snead is no doubt the real deal, but if they can’t win the league with Eli Manning, Mickey doubts they can do it with Snead. Look for the “upset” tonight...Cocks over Rebs 36 - 30
9.23.2009
9.22.2009
Scarbinsky Writes About Trooper Taylor
http://blog.al.com/kevin-scarbinsky/2009/09/auburn_players_fans_lining_up.html
I haven't watched a replay of the game yet but I'll listening closely to what Trooper said. The ESPN producer of the AU-WFVU game said that Trooper said, "Neil" and that's what I'll believe. It wouldn't surprise me at all if Finebum doctored the tape as he doesn't really care about on the field issues.
I haven't watched a replay of the game yet but I'll listening closely to what Trooper said. The ESPN producer of the AU-WFVU game said that Trooper said, "Neil" and that's what I'll believe. It wouldn't surprise me at all if Finebum doctored the tape as he doesn't really care about on the field issues.
9.21.2009
Go Effin Home, West Virginia, Country Roads, Take You Home
Payback is sweet. After last year's debacle up in Morgantown (http://wireroadandshug.blogspot.com/2008/10/no-way-in-hell-west-virginia.html), this year's game made it (almost) worthwhile. WFVU sold out to stop the run and it was great to see the offense adjust and win it with the passing game. Not to mention the defensive adjustments that led to Auburn outscoring them 31-9 over the last 3 quarters. Last year's team would have folded after the start WFVU had and probably lost by 4 touchdowns. Not this year and not this team.
AU at UT kickoff time set for 7:45 eastern
NETWORK TIME GAME
SEC Network 12:21 ET Alabama at Kentucky
CBS 3:30 ET LSU at Georgia
ESPNU 7:00 ET Ole Miss at Vanderbilt
ESPN Classic 7:00 ET South Carolina State at South Carolina
ESPN 2 7:30 ET Texas A&M vs. Arkansas (Arlington, TX)
CSS 7:30 ET Georgia Tech at Miss. State
ESPN 7:45 ET Auburn at Tennessee
SEC Network 12:21 ET Alabama at Kentucky
CBS 3:30 ET LSU at Georgia
ESPNU 7:00 ET Ole Miss at Vanderbilt
ESPN Classic 7:00 ET South Carolina State at South Carolina
ESPN 2 7:30 ET Texas A&M vs. Arkansas (Arlington, TX)
CSS 7:30 ET Georgia Tech at Miss. State
ESPN 7:45 ET Auburn at Tennessee
Craig Stevens SEC Defensive Player of the Week
http://blog.al.com/auburnbeat/2009/09/lb_craig_stevens_named_defensi.html
2 weeks in a row for the Tigers D.
9.18.2009
WRAS Picks the SEC - Week 3
West Virginia @ Auburn (-7)
Walt Flanagan: That. Was. Awesome! WFVU played the Tommy Boy clip after what seemed like every play in the second half up in Morgantown last year. I hope those hillbillies enjoyed that game cuz it ain't happening again. They don't seem to think JHS is going to be intimidating but I know better. WFVU has the worst fans I have ever seen and we'll kill 'em with kindness as payback but the game will be a different story. This year's Auburn team is not last year's Auburn team and WFVU is the team most likely to quit in the 2nd half...Auburn 38 - WFVU 24
Morris Fenderbaum: Auburn 33 - WFVU 28
Mickey Goldmill: The Eff’eers should give our D its best test to date. Malzahn and the offense keep on rolling. Smells like victory! Tigers 31 – Eff’eers 24
Louisville @ Kentucky (-13)
Walt Flanagan: Remember the days of Louisville's dominant offenses? They are long gone and UK has the 'Ville's number right now and nothing changes on Saturday...UK 24 - UL 10
Morris Fenderbaum: Kentucky 28 - Louisville 13
Mickey Goldmill: Ahh, the battle for the Commonwealth. I can only imagine the Cardinal faithful long for the days of Bob Petrino and his potty mouth. Since Steve Kragthorpe (http://firekragthorpenow.com/) took over for the aforementioned former Auburn offensive coordinator, Louisville has been victorious in only twelve of the twenty-five games it has contested. From ’03 to ’06 Louisville dominated UK, winning by an average margin of 20.5 points per contest. Kragthorpe has yet to beat the Wildcats in his tenure at Louisville. Don’t expect for things to change any time soon. Kentucky starts the day off by representing the SEC’s day of domination over the Big Least...UK 30 – Louisville 14
North Texas @ SPUAT (-38)
Walt Flanagan: Is SPUAT under the Sabear starting to look like a team that plays to the level of its competition? It sure looks that way (see La.Monroe, Tulane, FIU) and North Texas is one of the worst teams in college football. Let's see if SPUAT has the killer instinct...SPUAT 42 - UNT 3
Morris Fenderbaum: SPUAT 45 - North Texas 10
Mickey Goldmill: Do you think Terrance Cody keeps Wright Brand Bacon under his man boobs? Sure smells like it...SPUAT 38 - NTU 6
Florida Atlantic @ South Carolina (-21)
Walt Flanagan: Spurrier's corpse had Georgia right where he wanted him except he had Stephen Garcia and not Danny Wuerffel pitching it around on that last play. Their offense surprised me but I think it's an abberation. They'll win today but won't score as much...USC 28 - FAU 6
Morris Fenderbaum: South Carolina 38 - FAU 13
Mickey Goldmill: Carolina rebounds after the loss to UGay...Cocks 28 – FAU 3
SE Louisiana @ Ole Miss (no line)
Walt Flanagan: Is Ole Miss worthy of their ranking? I don't think so but we don't out any more about this team after Saturday than we did before...Ole Miss 42 - SE Lou 14
Morris Fenderbaum: Ole Miss 40 - SE Lou 6
Mickey Goldmill: Snot Bubbles. Colonel Reb wins big. 35 – 6
Tennessee @ Florida (-28.5)
Walt Flanagan: The Jorts have had this game circled ever since Lane Kiffin starting running off his yap. Let's hope the pressure doesn't get to the players as they will obviously try to run up the score. UT will not be able to score consistently on UF but the key will be how often can UT get Football Jesus off the field. Enough, but not enough to get under the number...Florida 41 - Tennessee 10
Morris Fenderbaum: Florida 43 - Tennessee 13
Mickey Goldmill: This one is gonna get ugly and Urban won’t even try hard. Out of control at the half. UF 38 – East Tennessee Cat Humpers 7
Louisiana-Lafayette @ LSU (-26)
Walt Flanagan: LSU is like Ole Miss, are they good or aren't they? I think LSU is good but they haven't proven it to me yet. This is the kind of game they used to drown the other teams in mustard in...LSU 31 - Ooh La La 3
Morris Fenderbaum: LSU 49 - Ooh La La 9
Mickey Goldmill: I’m so tired of directional Louisiana, except when they beat the turds. LSU 28 – LL 17
Mississippi State @ Vanderbilt (-8.5)
Walt Flanagan: MSU has an offense now, Vandy doesn't seem to. That will be enough to keep this close but Vandy squeeks it out at home...VU 24 - MSU 23
Morris Fenderbaum: MSU 24 - Vandy 20 CANNONBAAAAALLLLL!!!!!
Mickey Goldmill: Ugly game here. Vandy wins at home. 'Dores 28 – MSU 23
Georgia @ Arkansas (-1)
Walt Flanagan: Has Arkansas even played a game yet? It sure doesn't seem like it. Georgia didn't waste any time getting some real competition in and they've had a rough go of it the first two weeks. Something about this season tells me UGa is going to have a long one while the Hogs have had this game circled for a long time...Arkansas 31 - UGa 24
Morris Fenderbaum: UGa 24 - Arkansas 23
Mickey Goldmill: The only thing I have to complain about the new TV package is that there are too many SEC game at the same time slot on Saturday night. This game should be a barometer for Arkansas and where they stand. UGay squeaks another one out. North Campus is trashed again. UGAy 30 – Arkansas 28
Last Week:
Walt (5-1 straight up, 5-1 versus the spread)
Morris (5-1, 4-2)
Mickey (5-1, 3-3)
Total:
Walt (15-3, 10-4)
Morris (17-1, 10-4)
Mickey (16-2, 7-7)
Walt Flanagan: That. Was. Awesome! WFVU played the Tommy Boy clip after what seemed like every play in the second half up in Morgantown last year. I hope those hillbillies enjoyed that game cuz it ain't happening again. They don't seem to think JHS is going to be intimidating but I know better. WFVU has the worst fans I have ever seen and we'll kill 'em with kindness as payback but the game will be a different story. This year's Auburn team is not last year's Auburn team and WFVU is the team most likely to quit in the 2nd half...Auburn 38 - WFVU 24
Morris Fenderbaum: Auburn 33 - WFVU 28
Mickey Goldmill: The Eff’eers should give our D its best test to date. Malzahn and the offense keep on rolling. Smells like victory! Tigers 31 – Eff’eers 24
Louisville @ Kentucky (-13)
Walt Flanagan: Remember the days of Louisville's dominant offenses? They are long gone and UK has the 'Ville's number right now and nothing changes on Saturday...UK 24 - UL 10
Morris Fenderbaum: Kentucky 28 - Louisville 13
Mickey Goldmill: Ahh, the battle for the Commonwealth. I can only imagine the Cardinal faithful long for the days of Bob Petrino and his potty mouth. Since Steve Kragthorpe (http://firekragthorpenow.com/) took over for the aforementioned former Auburn offensive coordinator, Louisville has been victorious in only twelve of the twenty-five games it has contested. From ’03 to ’06 Louisville dominated UK, winning by an average margin of 20.5 points per contest. Kragthorpe has yet to beat the Wildcats in his tenure at Louisville. Don’t expect for things to change any time soon. Kentucky starts the day off by representing the SEC’s day of domination over the Big Least...UK 30 – Louisville 14
North Texas @ SPUAT (-38)
Walt Flanagan: Is SPUAT under the Sabear starting to look like a team that plays to the level of its competition? It sure looks that way (see La.Monroe, Tulane, FIU) and North Texas is one of the worst teams in college football. Let's see if SPUAT has the killer instinct...SPUAT 42 - UNT 3
Morris Fenderbaum: SPUAT 45 - North Texas 10
Mickey Goldmill: Do you think Terrance Cody keeps Wright Brand Bacon under his man boobs? Sure smells like it...SPUAT 38 - NTU 6
Florida Atlantic @ South Carolina (-21)
Walt Flanagan: Spurrier's corpse had Georgia right where he wanted him except he had Stephen Garcia and not Danny Wuerffel pitching it around on that last play. Their offense surprised me but I think it's an abberation. They'll win today but won't score as much...USC 28 - FAU 6
Morris Fenderbaum: South Carolina 38 - FAU 13
Mickey Goldmill: Carolina rebounds after the loss to UGay...Cocks 28 – FAU 3
SE Louisiana @ Ole Miss (no line)
Walt Flanagan: Is Ole Miss worthy of their ranking? I don't think so but we don't out any more about this team after Saturday than we did before...Ole Miss 42 - SE Lou 14
Morris Fenderbaum: Ole Miss 40 - SE Lou 6
Mickey Goldmill: Snot Bubbles. Colonel Reb wins big. 35 – 6
Tennessee @ Florida (-28.5)
Walt Flanagan: The Jorts have had this game circled ever since Lane Kiffin starting running off his yap. Let's hope the pressure doesn't get to the players as they will obviously try to run up the score. UT will not be able to score consistently on UF but the key will be how often can UT get Football Jesus off the field. Enough, but not enough to get under the number...Florida 41 - Tennessee 10
Morris Fenderbaum: Florida 43 - Tennessee 13
Mickey Goldmill: This one is gonna get ugly and Urban won’t even try hard. Out of control at the half. UF 38 – East Tennessee Cat Humpers 7
Louisiana-Lafayette @ LSU (-26)
Walt Flanagan: LSU is like Ole Miss, are they good or aren't they? I think LSU is good but they haven't proven it to me yet. This is the kind of game they used to drown the other teams in mustard in...LSU 31 - Ooh La La 3
Morris Fenderbaum: LSU 49 - Ooh La La 9
Mickey Goldmill: I’m so tired of directional Louisiana, except when they beat the turds. LSU 28 – LL 17
Mississippi State @ Vanderbilt (-8.5)
Walt Flanagan: MSU has an offense now, Vandy doesn't seem to. That will be enough to keep this close but Vandy squeeks it out at home...VU 24 - MSU 23
Morris Fenderbaum: MSU 24 - Vandy 20 CANNONBAAAAALLLLL!!!!!
Mickey Goldmill: Ugly game here. Vandy wins at home. 'Dores 28 – MSU 23
Georgia @ Arkansas (-1)
Walt Flanagan: Has Arkansas even played a game yet? It sure doesn't seem like it. Georgia didn't waste any time getting some real competition in and they've had a rough go of it the first two weeks. Something about this season tells me UGa is going to have a long one while the Hogs have had this game circled for a long time...Arkansas 31 - UGa 24
Morris Fenderbaum: UGa 24 - Arkansas 23
Mickey Goldmill: The only thing I have to complain about the new TV package is that there are too many SEC game at the same time slot on Saturday night. This game should be a barometer for Arkansas and where they stand. UGay squeaks another one out. North Campus is trashed again. UGAy 30 – Arkansas 28
Last Week:
Walt (5-1 straight up, 5-1 versus the spread)
Morris (5-1, 4-2)
Mickey (5-1, 3-3)
Total:
Walt (15-3, 10-4)
Morris (17-1, 10-4)
Mickey (16-2, 7-7)
WVFU's QB Ain't Skeered
He seems to think there are only 60,000 in Jordan-Hare Stadium. He's wrong and he'll find out soon enough. He's coming in like Superman but he's only going to shit himself in front of 87,451.
A Stadium is a Stadium...
...when you play in the Big (L)East. You're in SEC country tomorrow night.9.17.2009
9.16.2009
I'm beggin' darlin please, Layla
Something tells me, even after the pummeling that will insue Saturday in The Swamp, Lane will go to bed with a smile on his face and singing Rocky Top all night...if you know what I mean.
I WANT TO BEAT THESE SOBs SO BAD!
http://www.playlikeyourcouchisonfire.com/auburn.htmlI'm having terrible flashbacks to Morgantown. I can't even think rationally about the hillbillies.
9.15.2009
Bowl Game at Yankee Stadium Is Likely
Has the growing number of bowl games made getting into one less of an accomplishment? The Big East and Big 12 are close to getting a deal done which would match-up the conference's respective number three or four team with the number seven team. The game is to be played at the new Yankee Stadium.
LINK
LINK
Visitors to AU this Weekend
Ladarius Owens-4* LB (AUcommitt)
Michael Dyer-5* RB
Jeffrey Whitaker-4*DT
Michael Thornton-4*DT
Dakota Mosley-3*OL (MD's teammate)
Victor Beasley-3* LB (Clemson commit)
Trovon Reed-4* WR ( he and Lache Seastrunk want to go to same school together)
Michael Dyer-5* RB
Jeffrey Whitaker-4*DT
Michael Thornton-4*DT
Dakota Mosley-3*OL (MD's teammate)
Victor Beasley-3* LB (Clemson commit)
Trovon Reed-4* WR ( he and Lache Seastrunk want to go to same school together)
9.14.2009
Ball State Game to Kick Off at 6pm on FSN
http://auburntigers.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/091409aab.html
I love you, new SEC TV package.
Money Was Robbed!
http://www.secsports.com/news/sec-football-players-of-the-week.aspx
Complete bull shit that Trent Richardson got freshman of the week over McCalebb. Money had 81 yards in kickoff returns as well, not to mention he actually played a SEC team, not some Florida directional school.
Congrats to Antonio Coleman getting defensive player of the week and Kodi Burns getting some love.
If Spurrier Was Still Alive, He'd Never Allow This
Georgia state troopers celebrating right behind him after he actually let the Dawgs win a game!?!?!
9.11.2009
WRAS Picks the SEC - Week 2
Auburn (-14.5) vs. Mississippi State
Walt Flanagan: What a start for the Gene Chizik era. The team looked well-coached and confident. Chris Todd is a totally different QB. Some would say AU is getting a step up in weight class this week but didn't La. Tech beat MSU last year? I think they did but MSU's defense should give a better challenge. I'm not expecting another 3-2 game (my eyes can't take the beating). MSU's new coaching staff won't be able to keep this one close on the field or on the sidelines as Trooper and the rest of the boys stretch their chest-bumps-by-coaches lead on the rest of the nation. Auburn 28 - MSU 13
Morris Fenderbaum: Auburn 33 - MSU 17
Mickey Goldmill: Mickey loves the new Chris Todd. Wow, what a difference a little shoulder surgery and a little Gus can make. Mickey sees this game very similar to last week’s victory over the Bulldogs of Ruston. These Bulldogs from Starkganistan will be better and should be a much improved team from last year’s squad. Expect things to be close through the first half but Auburn should pull away in the second half...Auburn 34 – MSU 16
Georgia (-7) vs. South Carolina
Walt Flanagan: This game might match last year's AU-MSU game as a test case for the offensively challenged. Is Joe Cox starting or isn't he? Does it really matter? This game is always close and this year is no different...Georgia 14 - South Carolina 9
Morris Fenderbaum: Georgia 28 - South Carolina 13
Mickey Goldmill: This is the weekend of the Peach State vs. the Palmetto State. The Perfect Option took down Pelham’s own Dabo Sweeney in his SEC debut last night, Peaches 1 - Palmettos 0. Game number two between the hedges: Will this be The Ole Ball Coach’s last attempt to beat Jawga? Maybe, but it wont have a bearing on the game’s outcome. UGay narrowly escapes defeat in a sloppy game. UGay 24 – Cocks 23
Tennessee (-8) vs. UCLA
Walt Flanagan: Who knew the path of least resistance was going over the hilltopper? UT looked like a completely different team and look to make a statement against the Pac 10 team that started Fulmer's weighted down ride out of town. UCLA fell apart after this game last year and doesn't seem much better though they keep it closer than the experts think...UT 24 - UCLA 21
Morris Fenderbaum: Tennessee 28 - UCLA 24
Mickey Goldmill: Mickey applauds UT as they continue to schedule quality out-of-conference opponents. We should get an idea of how much improved Kiffen’s Wild Boyz are this week as they do battle against UCLA. ESS EEE SEE speed wins as the hype grows in East Tennessee. UT 35 – UCLA 26
LSU (-14.5) vs. Vandy
Walt Flanagan: The Corndogs were almost ambushed last week as they obviously didn't expect that much of a dogfight from the U-Dub Huskies. They better bring their mustard this week or Vandy will take a bite out of them. I believe LSU is better than they showed last week and if they aren't, The Hat will wish he had taken that Michigan job when he had the chance...LSU 27 - Vandy 13
Morris Fenderbaum: LSU 31 - Vandy 9
Mickey Goldmill: Is this the upset of the week? Probably not. Don’t put too much stock in Vandy, they get you all fired up just to let you down and break your heart (except for last year's Auburn-Vandy game). The Corndogs are too big, fast and deep for the ‘Dores. LSU 35 – Vandy 18
SPUAT (-34) vs. Florida International
Walt Flanagan: SPUAT looked good last week and clearly dominated Virginia Tech no matter what the score said. But that's what happens when your scholarships are worth more than everyone else...SPUAT 42 - FIU 3
Morris Fenderbaum: SPUAT 41 - Florida International 9 CANNONBAAAAALLLLL!!!!!
Mickey Goldmill: Zzzz….ZZZZZ….zzZZZ…zzZZZZzz. Snoozer. Cheaters win big. SPUAT 42 – FIU 7
Florida (-36) vs. Troy
Walt Flanagan: Florida toyed with Charleston Southern last week and has another tuneup before Urban Meyer unleashes his 250 pound bowling ball of teeth and bible verses on the Wild Boyz. May St. Tebow have mercy on your soul...Florida 52 - Troy 14
Morris Fenderbaum: Florida 55 - Troy 13
Mickey Goldmill: Okay, so Mickey picked the wrong former Heisman winner to get hurt last week. What was Mickey thinking? Everyone knows Tebow’s bones are made of carbon nanotubes and are virtually indestructible. The men of Troy can't compete with carbon nanotubes. Mickey predicts snot bubbles. UF 56 – Troy 10
Last Week:
Walt (10-2 straight up, 5-3 versus the spread)
Morris (12-0, 6-2)
Mickey (11-1, 4-4)
Total:
Walt (10-2, 5-3)
Morris (12-0, 6-2)
Mickey (11-1, 4-4)
9.10.2009
CHALLENGE!!!!!!!!!!
MSU Head Coach Dan Mullen to a reporter on how he is preparing his team for the noise at Jordan-Hare Saturday:
"Go stand right in the middle of those speakers, they're five feet from you," Mullen said. "That's about it. I don't think it's going to get much louder than that."
So he tells a reporter to go stand in front of some speakers at a MSU practice and that's how loud it's going to be at PDJHS on Saturday night? Section 50 is going to represent, will you?
"Go stand right in the middle of those speakers, they're five feet from you," Mullen said. "That's about it. I don't think it's going to get much louder than that."
So he tells a reporter to go stand in front of some speakers at a MSU practice and that's how loud it's going to be at PDJHS on Saturday night? Section 50 is going to represent, will you?
9.04.2009
Startaplayoff.com
http://www.startaplayoff.com/
Someone during the main event of Boise State-Oregon had a sign with this website on it.
Someone during the main event of Boise State-Oregon had a sign with this website on it.
When Keeping It Real Goes Wrong
This is a case when a simple "your momma" or "eff you" would have sufficed. I'm not excusing the BSU player for talking trash but that's all it was, talking a little smack to the guy who said that they "owed Boise an ass whuppin". Guess Blount meant it. And what a maniac Blount is. How many guys did it take to get him off the field? He's in Artest's class now and they need to kick him off the team. If, for example, Ben Tate did that (and there's now way he ever would) I'd say the same thing.
And what a crapfest that USC-NC State game was. I was wrong on my pick but I saw nothing out of USC that leads me to believe they can win more than 5 games. They stink.
Bammer of the Week
This guy could be like any other runo f the mill Bammer with a stomach tattoo but what sets this guy apart is the details, such as his nipple ring. That's how you get the accolades and the women.
9.03.2009
Walt's SEC Record Predictions
SEC East
Florida (12-0, 8-0) - losses = none
Georgia (10-2, 7-1) - losses = Florida, Georgia Tech
Tennessee (6-6, 3-5) - losses = UCLA, Florida, Auburn, Georgia, Alabama, Ole Miss
Vanderbilt (6-6, 3-5) - losses = LSU, Ole Miss, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Florida, Tennessee
South Carolina (3-9, 1-7) - losses = NC State, Georgia, Ole Miss, Alabama, Vandy, Tennessee, Arkansas, Florida, Clemson
Kentucky (5-7, 1-7) - losses = Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, Auburn, Vanderbilt, Georgia, Tennessee
SEC West
Alabama (11-1, 7-1) - losses = Auburn
Ole Miss (10-2, 6-2) - losses = Alabama, LSU
LSU (9-3, 5-3) - losses = Georgia, Florida, Alabama
Auburn (8-4, 4-4) - losses = Arkansas, LSU, Ole Miss, Georgia
Arkansas (7-5, 3-5) - losses = Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Ole Miss, LSU
Mississippi State (3-9, 0-8) - losses = Auburn, Vandy, LSU, Georgia Tech, Florida, Kentucky, Alabama, Arkansas, Ole Miss
SEC Championship Game - Florida over Alabama
Florida (12-0, 8-0) - losses = none
Georgia (10-2, 7-1) - losses = Florida, Georgia Tech
Tennessee (6-6, 3-5) - losses = UCLA, Florida, Auburn, Georgia, Alabama, Ole Miss
Vanderbilt (6-6, 3-5) - losses = LSU, Ole Miss, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Florida, Tennessee
South Carolina (3-9, 1-7) - losses = NC State, Georgia, Ole Miss, Alabama, Vandy, Tennessee, Arkansas, Florida, Clemson
Kentucky (5-7, 1-7) - losses = Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, Auburn, Vanderbilt, Georgia, Tennessee
SEC West
Alabama (11-1, 7-1) - losses = Auburn
Ole Miss (10-2, 6-2) - losses = Alabama, LSU
LSU (9-3, 5-3) - losses = Georgia, Florida, Alabama
Auburn (8-4, 4-4) - losses = Arkansas, LSU, Ole Miss, Georgia
Arkansas (7-5, 3-5) - losses = Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Ole Miss, LSU
Mississippi State (3-9, 0-8) - losses = Auburn, Vandy, LSU, Georgia Tech, Florida, Kentucky, Alabama, Arkansas, Ole Miss
SEC Championship Game - Florida over Alabama
WRAS Picks the SEC - Week 1
La. Tech (+13) at Auburn
Walt Flanagan: The Most Fascinating Coach in the World (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/andy_staples/09/02/gene-chizik/index.html?eref=sihp) begins his Auburn head coaching career versus La. Tech and one-time coaching candidate, Vince Dooley's son. The Bulldogs keep this close for a half before Auburn pulls away...37-17.
Walt Flanagan: The Most Fascinating Coach in the World (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/andy_staples/09/02/gene-chizik/index.html?eref=sihp) begins his Auburn head coaching career versus La. Tech and one-time coaching candidate, Vince Dooley's son. The Bulldogs keep this close for a half before Auburn pulls away...37-17.
Morris Fenderbaum: Auburn 49 - La. Tech 24
Mickey Goldmill: I’m scared to watch. Seriously. If this Chris Todd experiment doesn’t work, it could mean another long season. Something tells me he’ll be fine. Auburn 30 – La Tech 17
Virginia Tech (+6.5) vs. SPUAT in Atlanta
Walt Flanagan: Julio Jones & Mark Ingram are "off the hook" so to speak with the NCAA and Saban's NCAA leash gets a little longer...SPUAT 24 - Virginia Tech 14
Morris Fenderbaum: SPUAT 17 - Virginia Tech 13
Mickey Goldmill: Cheatin’ bastards 24 – Hokies 21
South Carolina (+5.5) @ NC State
Walt Flanagan: It's the beginning of the end for Steve Spurrier's propped-up corpse...NC State 24 - South Carolina 14
Morris Fenderbaum: South Carolina 23 - NC State 20 CANNONBAAAAALLLLL!!!!!
Mickey Goldmill: The question of the year for Gamecock fans is will Garcia be the quarterback SOS needs to deliver a winner. Mickey is skeptical. SC covers but loses. NC State 30 – USC 28
Georgia (+5.5) @ Oklahoma State
Walt Flanagan: I may have picked Ok. State to win in the CFN post but I've changed my mind. Ok. State won't be able to handle the pressure that has built up over the offseason....Georgia 35 - Oklahoma State 31
Morris Fenderbaum: Oklahoma State 38 - Georgia 31
Mickey Goldmill: Joe Cox struggles in his first attempt on the big stage. OK State 24 – UGA 14. This just in: Mike Gundy is in fact, not a man. He was born with vagesticles smaller than Joe Cox.
Kentucky (-15) @ Miami (OH)
Walt Flanagan: yet another road opener for the SEC. Scared say scared...Kentucky 31 - Miami (OH) 14
Morris Fenderbaum: Kentucky 38 - Miami (OH) 17
Mickey Goldmill: Snot Bubbles. UK 24 - Miami (OH) 7
LSU (-17.5) @ Washington
Walt Flanagan: What has happened to the Huskies? When this game was set it sounded like a really good intersectional, now it's just a team coming off an 0-12 season (it's 6th losing season in a row) versus a much tastier Corndog (as opposed to 2008). Mustard for everyone...LSU 45 - Washington 17
Morris Fenderbaum: LSU 33 - Washington 17
Mickey Goldmill: LSU wins big. Real big, as in 42 – 14. Corndogs pour mustard on themselves in celebration.
Western Kentucky (+29) @ Tennessee
Walt Flanagan: The Lane Kiffin era begins. If Daddy can keep Lane focused and not distracted by the Hilltopper blobbing on the opposite sideline, UT wins big...Tennessee 35 - WKU 3
Morris Fenderbaum: Tennessee 38 - Western Kentucky 9
Mickey Goldmill: More Snot Bubbles. UTK 35 – WK 7. Everyone in East Tennessee rips off their shirt in celebration.
Ole Miss (-16) @ Memphis
Walt Flanagan: Is this the year that Ole Miss finally figures out their way to Atlanta? No, but they do know how to beat Memphis...Ole Miss 42 - Memphis 21
Morris Fenderbaum: Ole Miss 30 - Memphis 13
Mickey Goldmill: Snead has a big day; the hype grows. UM Rebels 40 – UM Tigers 14
Jackson State (no line) @ Miss. State
Walt Flanagan: New head coach, new helmets, new attitude, same Mississippi State...MSU 27 - Jackson State 3
Morris Fenderbaum: Mississippi State 44 - Jackson State 3
Mickey Goldmill: Dan Mullen gets his first win. It will be one of very few. MSU 30 – JSU 7
Charleston Southern (no line) @ Florida
Walt Flanagan: The defending champs start out the season with a reeeeeeeeeeeeeal challenge. Tebow plays a half, accounts for 4 TDs and 300 yards and then sits out second half praying for CSU's soul...Florida 70 - Charleston Southern 0
Morris Fenderbaum: Florida 66 - Charleston Southern 0
Mickey Goldmill: Tim Tebow breaks the NCAA record for TDs in the first quarter. Then he breaks his fibula in the second. Children in the Philippines weep. Yeah, I said it! UF 56 – CS 0
Missouri State (no line) @ Arkansas
Walt Flanagan: Dark horse SEC West pick led by Dark pig Bobby Petrino goes all H1N1 on Missouri State...Arkansas 49 - Missouri State 10
Morris Fenderbaum: Arkansas 36 - Missouri State 10
Mickey Goldmill: Whooooo pig sooie. Arky 45 – MS 10
Western Carolina (no line) @ Vandy
Walt Flanagan: Can the 'Dores make it 2 bowling seasons in a row? History is not on their side but they get off to a good start here...Vandy 35 - Western Carolina 3
Morris Fenderbaum: Vandy 30 - Western Carolina 6
Mickey Goldmill: Smarts kids handing out snot bubbles. Vandy 38 – WC 7
9.02.2009
AU Depth Chart Released
http://blog.al.com/goldmine/2009/09/auburn_depth_chart_true_freshm.html
Auburn released their depth chart and here's WRAS preseason grades for each position...
OFFENSE
Quarterback
Chris Todd
Neil Caudle
Tyrik Rollison
Grade (C) - The most discussed about position on the team during fall practice (for the 2nd year in a row) ends with Chris Todd being named the opening game starter again. WRAS thinks this is the right move right now for the team. If he can stay healthy, Todd is likely to make the least mistakes on the team and is probably the most resilient QB on the roster (and that's saying something since Caudle and Kodi Burns are on this team too). Todd just has to drive the car and not go careening off a cliff (and thus injuring his shoulder) for this team to contend for a decent bowl game. Caudle is #2 right now but WRAS is convinced that Rollison will get as much playing time and would be the starter in the 2nd half of the season should something happen to Todd.
Running back
Ben Tate
Onterio McCalebb
Grade (B) - A top heavy group on the AU team since their isn't much depth, especially with the ongoing Eric Smith saga. Catchy nicknames for RB duos are all the rage...Smash & Dash, Thunder & Lightning, etc. so WRAS figures these two need one. How about McMoney, Tate money? http://wireroadandshug.blogspot.com/2009/08/straight-cash-homey.html
H-Back
Mario Fannin
John Douglas
Gabe McKenzie
Grade (B-) - Another offseason of talk that Fannin is going to be the focal point of the office and all over the field. We'll believe it when we see it, hopefully this is the year. And another year, another position change for Gabe. WRAS thought if they would do that, he'd go back to the DL but it wasn't to be.
Tight end
Tommy Trott
Philip Lutzenkirchen
Jay Wisner
Grade (B-) - Trott is a solid player but hasn't been able to put it all together for a single season. He seemed to take to last year's spread offense but then the season started. Lutz is another true freshman to crack the 2-deep and everyone is raving about him. Surprising to see Wisner here, not that he made the depth chart but that it was at tight end. This is likely due to the fact that TE in this offense is more like a 3/4 receiver and Trooper Taylor loves this kid.
Offensive Line
Left tackle
Lee Ziemba
Jared Cooper
Left guard
Byron Isom
Jorell Bostrom
Center
Ryan Pugh
Bart Eddins
Right guard
Mike Berry
John Sullen
Right tackle
Andrew McCain
Vance Smith
Grade (B-) - This is the most experienced unit on the offensive side of the ball and also the one with the most to prove. It was evident that they did not like having to lose weight before last season and it showed on the field. Not only was the physical running game gone but the focus seemed to lack as well. Depth is an issue so this unit needs to stay healthy or it could all fall apart again.
Wide Receiver
Wide receiver
Terrell Zachery
Kodi Burns
Wide receiver
Darvin Adams
DeAngelo Benton OR Emory Blake
Grade (C+) - Seemingly a lot of talent in the whole unit though most has been unfulfilled (e.g. Tim Hawthorne). If WRAS had told you last year that the above would be our 2-deep at WR, you would have thrown us in Bryce and thrown away the key. This group is completely unknown and is epitomized by Kodi. We'll take the wait and see approach before saying anything further.
Place-kicker
Wes Byrum
Morgan Hull
Grade (B) - If Byrum can regain his 2007 form then this position should be a strong one. Field position will be key so let's hope Hull's leg stays strong.
DEFENSE
Defensive Line
Defensive end
Michael Goggans
Dee Ford
Defensive tackle
Jake Ricks
Zach Clayton
Derrick Lykes
Defensive tackle
Mike Blanc
Nick Fairley
Defensive end
Antonio Coleman
Nosa Eguae
Grade (B+) - Lots of young guys will be needed to contribute this year. Not the biggest of DLs but they will be one of the fastest so they need to stay healthy as to not get run down by some of the more physical OLs in the SEC. Notable absence of Antoine "Hot" Carter due to injury or some other mysterious reason.
Linebackers
Outside linebacker
Eltoro Freeman
Adam Herring
Wade Christopher
Middle linebacker
Josh Bynes
Harris Gaston
Outside linebacker
Craig Stevens
Jonathan Evans
Grade (C) - The unit on the team with the least depth. Lots of underclassmen expected to contribute immediately and one injury or two could force Auburn to emply the never before seen 4-0-7 defense which would not be good. Bynes is as good as they come and Eltoro "The Bull" Freeman has all the talent of Tray Blackmon (hopefully he doesn't have his head though). Spencer Pybus should contribute but isn't listed on the depth chart due to post-concussion symptoms.
Defensive Backs
Cornerback
Neiko Thorpe
Demond Washington
Safety
Zac Etheridge
Mike Slade
D'Antoine Hood
Safety
Daren Bates
Drew Cole
T'Sharvan Bell
Cornerback
Walter McFadden
Harry Adams
Grade (C+) - A very talented bunch but less talented than they should be due to injuries to Aairon Savage and Mike McNeil. Neiko Thorpe is looking more and more like an All-SEC performer so let's hope he lives up to the hype Auburn coaches have given him this offseason. McFadden should be solid at the other corner spot and the shock of the fall has been Darren Bates rapid ascension to the top of the safety depth chart (akin to the human missile he is purported to be).
SPECIAL TEAMS
Punter
Clinton Durst
Ryan Shoemaker
Punt return
Mario Fannin
Anthony Gulley
Kickoff return
Terrell Zachery or Onterio McCalebb
Grade (B+) - Probably the strongest group on the team. Durst evokes memories of helium-using punters of the past and while Shoemaker has struggled to regain his early form, he's a competent backup. WRAS agrees with anything that gets the ball in Mario Fannin's hands more. He was criminally underutilized last year and that needs to change. Zachery and McMoney are a couple of speedsters and should consistently get Auburn in good field position.
Auburn released their depth chart and here's WRAS preseason grades for each position...
OFFENSE
Quarterback
Chris Todd
Neil Caudle
Tyrik Rollison
Grade (C) - The most discussed about position on the team during fall practice (for the 2nd year in a row) ends with Chris Todd being named the opening game starter again. WRAS thinks this is the right move right now for the team. If he can stay healthy, Todd is likely to make the least mistakes on the team and is probably the most resilient QB on the roster (and that's saying something since Caudle and Kodi Burns are on this team too). Todd just has to drive the car and not go careening off a cliff (and thus injuring his shoulder) for this team to contend for a decent bowl game. Caudle is #2 right now but WRAS is convinced that Rollison will get as much playing time and would be the starter in the 2nd half of the season should something happen to Todd.
Running back
Ben Tate
Onterio McCalebb
Grade (B) - A top heavy group on the AU team since their isn't much depth, especially with the ongoing Eric Smith saga. Catchy nicknames for RB duos are all the rage...Smash & Dash, Thunder & Lightning, etc. so WRAS figures these two need one. How about McMoney, Tate money? http://wireroadandshug.blogspot.com/2009/08/straight-cash-homey.html
H-Back
Mario Fannin
John Douglas
Gabe McKenzie
Grade (B-) - Another offseason of talk that Fannin is going to be the focal point of the office and all over the field. We'll believe it when we see it, hopefully this is the year. And another year, another position change for Gabe. WRAS thought if they would do that, he'd go back to the DL but it wasn't to be.
Tight end
Tommy Trott
Philip Lutzenkirchen
Jay Wisner
Grade (B-) - Trott is a solid player but hasn't been able to put it all together for a single season. He seemed to take to last year's spread offense but then the season started. Lutz is another true freshman to crack the 2-deep and everyone is raving about him. Surprising to see Wisner here, not that he made the depth chart but that it was at tight end. This is likely due to the fact that TE in this offense is more like a 3/4 receiver and Trooper Taylor loves this kid.
Offensive Line
Left tackle
Lee Ziemba
Jared Cooper
Left guard
Byron Isom
Jorell Bostrom
Center
Ryan Pugh
Bart Eddins
Right guard
Mike Berry
John Sullen
Right tackle
Andrew McCain
Vance Smith
Grade (B-) - This is the most experienced unit on the offensive side of the ball and also the one with the most to prove. It was evident that they did not like having to lose weight before last season and it showed on the field. Not only was the physical running game gone but the focus seemed to lack as well. Depth is an issue so this unit needs to stay healthy or it could all fall apart again.
Wide Receiver
Wide receiver
Terrell Zachery
Kodi Burns
Wide receiver
Darvin Adams
DeAngelo Benton OR Emory Blake
Grade (C+) - Seemingly a lot of talent in the whole unit though most has been unfulfilled (e.g. Tim Hawthorne). If WRAS had told you last year that the above would be our 2-deep at WR, you would have thrown us in Bryce and thrown away the key. This group is completely unknown and is epitomized by Kodi. We'll take the wait and see approach before saying anything further.
Place-kicker
Wes Byrum
Morgan Hull
Grade (B) - If Byrum can regain his 2007 form then this position should be a strong one. Field position will be key so let's hope Hull's leg stays strong.
DEFENSE
Defensive Line
Defensive end
Michael Goggans
Dee Ford
Defensive tackle
Jake Ricks
Zach Clayton
Derrick Lykes
Defensive tackle
Mike Blanc
Nick Fairley
Defensive end
Antonio Coleman
Nosa Eguae
Grade (B+) - Lots of young guys will be needed to contribute this year. Not the biggest of DLs but they will be one of the fastest so they need to stay healthy as to not get run down by some of the more physical OLs in the SEC. Notable absence of Antoine "Hot" Carter due to injury or some other mysterious reason.
Linebackers
Outside linebacker
Eltoro Freeman
Adam Herring
Wade Christopher
Middle linebacker
Josh Bynes
Harris Gaston
Outside linebacker
Craig Stevens
Jonathan Evans
Grade (C) - The unit on the team with the least depth. Lots of underclassmen expected to contribute immediately and one injury or two could force Auburn to emply the never before seen 4-0-7 defense which would not be good. Bynes is as good as they come and Eltoro "The Bull" Freeman has all the talent of Tray Blackmon (hopefully he doesn't have his head though). Spencer Pybus should contribute but isn't listed on the depth chart due to post-concussion symptoms.
Defensive Backs
Cornerback
Neiko Thorpe
Demond Washington
Safety
Zac Etheridge
Mike Slade
D'Antoine Hood
Safety
Daren Bates
Drew Cole
T'Sharvan Bell
Cornerback
Walter McFadden
Harry Adams
Grade (C+) - A very talented bunch but less talented than they should be due to injuries to Aairon Savage and Mike McNeil. Neiko Thorpe is looking more and more like an All-SEC performer so let's hope he lives up to the hype Auburn coaches have given him this offseason. McFadden should be solid at the other corner spot and the shock of the fall has been Darren Bates rapid ascension to the top of the safety depth chart (akin to the human missile he is purported to be).
SPECIAL TEAMS
Punter
Clinton Durst
Ryan Shoemaker
Punt return
Mario Fannin
Anthony Gulley
Kickoff return
Terrell Zachery or Onterio McCalebb
Grade (B+) - Probably the strongest group on the team. Durst evokes memories of helium-using punters of the past and while Shoemaker has struggled to regain his early form, he's a competent backup. WRAS agrees with anything that gets the ball in Mario Fannin's hands more. He was criminally underutilized last year and that needs to change. Zachery and McMoney are a couple of speedsters and should consistently get Auburn in good field position.
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