Impressive Auburn win

September 13, 2009

By Jon Johnson

The Tigers 49-24 win over Mississippi State on Saturday was certainly impressive from a scoring standpoint. But what may have been most encouraging about this win for Auburn was the character the team showed when falling behind after a blocked punt was returned for a touchdown.
Just like that, Mississippi State had taken the lead and erased a 14-0 AU advantage to go ahead 17-14.
Yet just like that, Auburn scored two quick touchdowns to lead 28-17 at halftime and never look back.
So far, this is a fun bunch to watch. The Tigers get off the deck in a hurry and fight back without hesitation.
The enthusiasm and energy shown by the players and coaches is far, far different than what we saw last season.
Good stuff indeed.

AU up 28-17 at half

September 12, 2009

By Jon Johnson

After falling behind 17-14 following a blocked punt returned for a touchdown, Auburn really showed some strong character in getting off the deck and scoring two TDs in the final three minutes of the half.
We’ll see if the momentum can continue.
Auburn has rolled up 314 yards of total offense as compared to Mississippi State’s 171.

At Jordan Hare for AU-Miss State

By Jon Johnson

I think this could be a very entertaining game with the new offenses of both teams on display.
It’s hard to think of a Mississippi State team throwing the ball around all over the field, but that’s what I expect to see.
It will be a real test for the Auburn secondary.
I believe the difference will actually come down to which team runs the ball best.
We shall see.

Smith to play

September 09, 2009

By Jon Johnson

Got the word today from Auburn beat writer Andrew Gribble that Eric Smith, who sat out the first game after off-the-field troubles, will not only be in uniform against Mississippi State but is expected to see action.
While this new offense is designed to move the ball down the field quickly, it appears like the running game will be the primary weapon, at least this season.
With Ben Tate, Onterio McCalebb and now Eric Smith available to tote the football, I believe Auburn will keep it on the ground often in trying to pound away at Mississippi State. And if the runners do their job again this week, that only opens up the passing game that much more.

Impressive debut by Chizik and Co.

September 07, 2009

By Jon Johnson

Very, very impressed by what Auburn did Saturday night against a decent Louisiana Tech team.
Gene Chizik gets an A+ on his debut. Looked confident and showed a fiery nature on the sidelines. The show of emotion from him was a nice change of pace from what we saw when Tommy Tuberville was running the show.
Two different personalities. Not that there was nothing wrong with Tuberville’s low-key demeanor, but I believe at this time Auburn needs a more fiery guy running the show.
Auburn’s offense, especially running a new system, looked well-prepared for the opener. While the offensive line doesn’t have much depth, I like the starters.
Defense looks like it will be fine, and just get better with the return of Eltoro Freeman and Mike McNeil from injuries.
Kicking game was solid.
Few things to complain about for an opener.
Up next, Mississippi State.