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.

‘Big Cat’ recruiting weekend makes ‘Big Noise’

June 01, 2009

By Jon Johnson

After reading about, and watching a little video of Auburn’s ‘Big Cat’ recruiting weekend, it appears the Tiger coaches accomplished their mission.
I’m not sure if everything that went on was within NCAA guidelines, but I do know it certainly put Auburn’s recruiting efforts back in the spotlight - again.
The limo tour of the coaches created quite a stir, and now this.
Say what you want, but Auburn coaches are getting very creative in getting top athletes from around the country to at least take a look at the football program.
While Tuberville and Co. appeared to be getting stale in their final years, Chizik and his crew are making some big noise.
You’ve got to give them credit.
One has to wonder what’s next. It certainly has made for an interesting off-season.