Player Profile: Sen'Derrick Marks Auburn DT

Pros: Marks has a short, stocky frame which he uses to his advantage against blockers. The former Tiger won’t overpower many offensive linemen head-to-head, but possesses the ability to disengage and make plays—he does a good job of not letting blockers get in close. He is very quick, plays with balance and shows a good burst to get into the backfield. He was productive throughout his SEC career and had a knack for making an impact as a penetrator. Has upside as a pass rusher either from defensive tackle position or potentially as a defensive end in a 3-4 scheme. His versatility will allow whomever drafts him to move him around along the defensive line.

Cons: Marks is a little smaller than NFL scouts desire from top rated defensive tackles. He will not be able to handle double teams at the NFL level and while he plays with a good motor on most plays, he is noticeably tired after doing so, making durability a concern. Marks missed time and was affected by injuries as sophomore and a junior, not to mention the fact that he red-shirted his true freshman season due to an injury. He could have used another year to work on his endurance and technique. The Auburn product will probably need to play on a team that uses a rotation on the D-Line.

Scouts Take: Marks shows good athletic ability for a 300-pound defensive lineman and he is considered one of the top defensive tackles in this year's class. He will also rank high among 3-4 teams who are looking to fill the defensive end position. If he would have gone back for another year at Auburn and worked on a few areas of his game, he could have been a first-round pick in next year's draft. He was at one point considered a late first rounder this year, but will more than likely land sometime in the second or third round.

Photo Credit: Todd J. Van Emst (Auburn University Athletic Dept. Photographer)

Q&A: Brad Lester, RB, Auburn

How have your workouts been going? Have you worked out by yourself or are you at a facility with other athletes training for the upcoming draft as well?

Lester: Prior to my pro day I’ve been training in New Jersey with Joe DeFranco. It’s a great place to work out. It was me, Brian Cushing and the tight end from Rutgers, Kevin Brock. It was a great group of guys to work out with. Most combine facilities you have about 40 to 50 people to work out with. But for us, it was great intensity because it was just three...four of us working out everyday.

In regards to your training it seems most of the guys we speak to share the same opinion that they are in the best shape of their lives. Do you share the same opinion?

Lester: Oh yeah. I left school weighing about 180 or 182 pounds. Right now I’m close to 200. I’ve never been this heavy or have run the ball this heavy so it should be interesting to see.

With that extra weight what time in the 40 are you expecting?

Lester: I don’t want to call it. I want to keep it a surprise (laughs). It will be a good one though (laughs). It will be a good 40. Let’s just say no higher than 4.40.

Have you spoken with any teams?

Lester: Actually my agent has talked with a lot of teams. He’s the one who has talked with running back coaches. When I’m talking with him (agent) he’s telling me they are looking for me to be healthy, bigger, and running a good 40 while showing good footwork doing the drills. I left the season with a lot of injuries and that’s the big question mark on me in terms of me getting drafted. So I need to show them I’m healthy, I gained weight, and that I can still move.

Most draft experts have you getting drafted on the second day or being a free agent. Do you think you will be drafted?

Lester: Honestly, I have the mind-set of being drafted. It doesn’t matter where I go, I just want to make a team. I’ve been working real hard and whatever team picks me is going to get a player they didn’t expect because I plan on coming in and running the ball hard and being very productive.

It seems that Auburn always has so much talent in the backfield which makes it hard to be that bell cow type of back. Do you agree with that?

Lester: Oh yeah, I agree. Ever since my freshman year coming in, the backs that I played with like Brandon Jacobs was there when I first got there. Carnell Williams was there, Ronnie Brown, Kenny Irons and Tre Smith. We have had a load of running backs ever since I’ve been there. So it’s always been hard to be that one guy who stands out at Auburn.

Speaking of the guys you mentioned do any of those guys come back to the university and give some tips or help you guys out?

Lester: Every once in a while Tre Smith does. I know for Carnell and Ronnie it’s tough for them, they're really busy in Tampa and Miami. Kenny had his knee injury so I’m sure he’s been busy rehabbing and getting back in shape to play football again.

Shifting gears to another side of the Auburn football program that most don’t see. Can you shed some light on the tradition at Auburn known as the Tiger Walk?

Lester: Oh man, the Tiger Walk is a huge tradition at Auburn. Pretty much all the fans come out and we get off the bus and they're supporting us, rooting us on. It’s just a big adrenaline rush, especially before a game like Georgia or LSU when they know it’s a big game. It’s just a huge tradition at Auburn.

Prior to the end of the season with Georgia and Alabama still on the schedule you made something of a guarantee. How did the players and coaches react when you did that?

Lester: (laughs) It was kind of funny. The way it got brought up is there was a question that was brought up and I had to answer that way. It was something like you're playing against some good defenses in Georgia and Alabama and they asked, 'Do you think your offense can compete?' I said I had no doubt we could compete and put some points up. But it got blown out of proportion. It’s wasn’t a slam against those schools, it was just a way of keeping a positive outlook for our offense.

Sometimes the media turns that stuff on you?

Lester: (laughs) My coach said, “What are you doing?” and I said, “What are you talking about?” (laughs) Then he showed it to me and I said, “That’s not what I meant.” So yeah, it got blown out of proportion.

What’s the emotion building up in you leading to your pro day and the draft. Are you so anxious you can’t wait to get started?

Lester: It’s funny. Actually it’s funny that I’m on the show now because I had a dream last night about my pro day. I did it, I ran a 4.3 in the 40, had a good day and was getting ready for draft day. That’s how excited I am about it. Also, I really can’t wait until draft day and I wish I could just skip my pro day and just go straight to draft day and find out what team I’m going to be on, get prepared for the season, and get into the system because I’m really excited to play. Especially after sitting out last season.

When April’s draft rolls around, do you plan on being glued to the TV set or are you going to get as far away as possible from it all?

Lester: Actually, me and my wife and probably a couple other friends are probably going to go off somewhere. I’m just going to wait for that call. Whatever team calls is good with me, but I don’t want to sit and watch it.

Speaking of the SEC, who are some of the tougher opponents that come to mind?

Lester: Glenn Dorsey comes to mind. He was real tough for a defensive player. He was always in the backfield and that surprised me since he was a defensive tackle...every play he was in the backfield. And I would have to go back to my freshman year with (Georgia safeties) Thomas Davis and Greg Blue, they were pretty tough.

How about yourself in terms of comparing your game to anyone that’s in the NFL playing now?

Lester: Actually, Carnell (Cadillac Williams) my freshman year when he was here. I watched everything he did. Even in high school, I didn’t know who he was. I'd seen him on TV a few times and my dad and some others always pointed out that we ran alike. So then I really started to watch him and tried to base my style of running with his style. When I watch film, I try to pick up on some things he does and I think we are very similar.

Did you feel a sense of history and tradition when you suited up as a Auburn running back considering their legacy of success at the position?

Lester: Our running back coach, Eddie Grant, gives us high expectations for being an Auburn running back. He’ll go over the history of backs we have had at Auburn. In our running back meetings we have pictures of all the running backs that have had great careers at Auburn. He makes the expectations high for us to go out and play hard as an Auburn Tiger running back.

Besides your pro day (March 10th) are there any other upcoming workouts that you are aware of as of today?

Lester: Not yet. My agent said after my pro day there should be a lot of teams that want to fly me in for a private workout. Like I said earlier, any team that is interested in me, I’m interested in them as well.

When football season is out of the picture and you have some down time, where are we going to find Brad Lester and what is he most likely to be doing?

Lester: I like to work out everyday. You would probably find me on a hill in Stone Mountain Park trying to get ready for the season. But for real down time, you probably wouldn’t find me doing anything else besides watching TV or playing video games.

Touching base a little on Auburn’s football season, you finished 5-7. What type of season where you guys looking to have?

Lester: Honestly, coming into the season we thought we could be 13-0. We came in with a new offense and new offensive coordinator, Tony Franklin. I think we really didn’t have time to get this offense rolling. I think it was a great offense and over time it would of shown that in the SEC. But it didn’t work out for us that way last year.

Do you have interviews and tests on your pro day?

Lester: I’m not exactly sure about it. (Interviews) I do have to take the Wonderlic test when I get there at about 9:30, then I heard we will go straight into our 40’s, then the rest of the drills. I think after all that is done then the teams can interview you.

Have you been prepped on the Wonderlic yet or been studying up on it?

Lester: Yes (laughs). It’s actually tougher than I thought. I thought it would be just something I could pick an answer from. My agent actually gave me a test to study on and the questions are a lot tougher than you would think. There’s actually a lot of thinking involved.

Any questions come to mind that you could share with the rest of the world?

Lester: Nothing comes to mind. I can’t think of one. But it’s more like taking the SAT, the math questions on there that were like word problems...that seems to be pretty much what you are getting.

Did your teammates give you any nicknames?

Lester: Nicknames my teammates called me? I can’t think of any. They usually just called me B. Lester.

Would you hold a tarantula in your hand?

Lester: Never! (laughs) Unless I’m getting paid to do it.

Would you rather be a lead singer of a boy band or a male runway model?

Lester: (laughs) That’s a tough question. I would have to say a runway model before I become a band singer (laughs).

It’s 4th and goal with a few seconds left on the clock. You score the winning touchdown. Who do you want to beat in that game?

Lester: Alabama! (laughs) We had a situation like that in ‘07 with Alabama. It was 4th and 1 and coach said, “It’s on you to get this first down and win the game”.

Photo Credit: Todd J. Van Emst (Auburn University Athletic Dept. Photographer)

RB BRAD LESTER On All Access Football Radio

Auburn running back Brad Lester joins Player Spotlight host Bo Marchionte with his Pro Day just 48 hours away! The Georgia native talks about overcoming injuries, training with Joe DeFranco in New Jersey as he prepares himself for his Pro Day and looking forward to playing in the NFL. He also looks back at his days as an Auburn Tiger, the school’s lineage at the running back position and playing in the SEC. Lester ran for 1,689 yards and 19 touchdowns during his career as a Tiger.

*** CLICK TO LISTEN ***

Photo Credit: Todd J. Van Emst (Auburn University Athletic Dept. Photographer)

This Date in College Football History

Nov 29, 1958: Auburn wins its 24th straight game as the No. 2 Tigers avoid an upset by defeating their rival Alabama 14-8. Trailing in the fourth quarter, Crimson Tide quarterback Bobby Jackson leads team down to Auburn's 28-yard line with 1:26 left, but Tiger halfback Lamar Rawson deflects Jackson's pass at the goal line to secure the win.

Credit: The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame

A Football Fan’s Four-Pack…

West Virginia @ Pittsburgh (November 28, 12:00, ABC): Following last year’s meeting, when the Panthers spoiled the Mountaineers' chance to play in the BCS title game, West Virginia will be looking for revenge against Pitt in the Backyard Brawl. One of the nation’s longest running rivalries, this series dates back to 1895, with the Panthers hold a 60-37-3 advantage. This season, however, West Virginia has the memory of last year and an outside chance at the Big East title to fuel its fire.

Super Senior: Scott McKillop, LB, Pittsburgh

Star of Tomorrow: Noel Devine, RB, WVU

Georgia Tech @ Georgia (November 29, 12:00, CBS): No. 10 Georgia closes out its regular season against rival No. 20 Georgia Tech. The Bulldogs (9-2, 6-2 in SEC play) are 7-0 against the Yellow Jackets under head coach Mark Richt. Georgia Tech (8-3, 5-3 in ACC play), can still take the ACC Coastal if Virginia Tech loses, but has at least clinched a share of the division title coming off a 41-23 win over No. 23 Miami last week. Jonathan Dwyer, who leads the ACC in rushing, exploded for 128 yards and two touchdowns in the first half alone – but sat out the second half with a bruised knee. Georgia has won five of its last six games, and will have had two weeks to prepare for Tech after beating Auburn, 17-13, on Nov. 15th.

Super Senior: Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech

Star of Tomorrow: Rennie Curran, LB, Georgia

Auburn @ Alabama (November 29, 3:30, CBS): With the stakes being high for both squads, the Tigers and Crimson Tide meet for the 73rd time in the Iron Bowl. Top-ranked Alabama (11-0, 7-0 in SEC play) has the SEC championship game on the horizon, but first must close out the regular season against rival Auburn. The Tigers (5-6, 2-5 in SEC play) travel to Bryant-Denny Stadium in need of a victory against the Tide to become bowl-eligible. Alabama holds a 38-33-1 lead in the series, but Auburn holds a current six-game winning streak. Look for special teams to play a factor, as both teams have three kick returns for touchdowns in 2008.

Super Senior: Rashad Johnson, DB, Alabama

Star of Tomorrow: Craig Stevens, LB, Auburn

Notre Dame @ USC (November 29, 8:00, ABC): In a battle between schools with two of the more impressive football heritages, Saturday will mark the 80th meeting between Notre Dame and No. 5 USC. The Irish (6-5) are trying to rebound after dropping a heart-breaker to Syracuse, while the Trojans (9-1, 7-1 in Pac-10 play) are still holding out hopes that things break their way in the BCS picture. USC has won six straight in the series. The Trojans have also been nearly flawless at home in recent memory – winning 27 home night games in a row and the last 12 non-conference home games. If Notre dame is able to record the upset, it would be the first victory for the Irish over a top 10 opponent since they beat No. 3 Michigan (17-10) on Sept. 10, 2005.

Super Senior: Rey Maualuga, USC

Star of Tomorrow: Golden Tate, WR, ND

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media

This Date in College Football History

Nov 29, 1958: Auburn wins its 24th straight game as the No. 2 Tigers avoid an upset by defeating their rival Alabama 14-8. Trailing in the fourth quarter, Crimson Tide quarterback Bobby Jackson leads team down to Auburn's 28-yard line with 1:26 left, but Tiger halfback Lamar Rawson deflects Jackson's pass at the goal line to secure the win.

Credit: The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame

Auburn Looks To Secure Coaching Staff

Next Level Scouting, Inc. is reporting that there are at least preliminary talks behind the scenes at Auburn to discuss if they will retain current head coach Tommy Tuberville on the heels of fellow SEC head coach Phillip Fulmer resigning at season's end at Tennessee.

The primary thought process here is that there are some officials at Auburn that may not wish to give current Tigers' defensive coordinator Will Muschamp a window of opportunity to jump ship over to the "wish" list of the Tennessee Volunteers.

If a transition was made down the line later this season from Tuberville to Muschamp possibly even if he were just given the reigns to coach the team in a possible bowl game than it could lead to Auburn signing him to a long-term deal before someone like Tennessee or others could even receive the chance to interview him for their own vacancies at head coach.

CFI Top 25 - Week Seven

1. Alabama Crimson Tide (4)
Record: 6-0 (3-0)
Coaches Poll: 2
Associated Press: 2
Last Week: BYE
Is there a bunch that has earned time off more than Nick Saban’s boys? Nevertheless, Coach Saban surely found something to work on.
Up Next: 10/18: vs. Mississippi; 10/25: @ Tennessee

2. Texas Longhorns (6)
Record: 6-0 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 1
Associated Press: 1
Last Week: Won vs. Oklahoma 45-35
The defense may have allowed 35 points, but they shut down DeMarco Murray (six yards, seven carries) and made key fourth quarter stops when they needed them. The ‘Horns are for real.
Up Next: 10/18: vs. Missouri; 10/25: vs. Ok. St.

3. Penn St. Nittany Lions (5)
Record: 7-0 (3-0)
Coaches Poll: 2
Associated Press: 3
Last Week: Won @ Wisconsin 48-7
At times it appeared the Badgers had 10 players on the field. Which times? Whenever Darryl Clark (16-of-25, 244 yards) dropped back to pass or Derrick Williams fielded a punt.
Up Next: 10/18: vs. Michigan; 10/25: @ OSU

4. Southern California Trojans (7)
Record: 4-1 (2-1)
Coaches Poll: 4
Associated Press: 6
Last Week: Won vs. Arizona St. 28-0
Even with Rudy Carpenter, the Trojans toyed with the Sun Devils. However, USC can’t be happy with five turnovers, including three Mark Sanchez interceptions.
Up Next: 10/18: @ WSU; 10/25: @ Arizona

5. Oklahoma Sooners (1)
Record: 5-1 (1-1)
Coaches Poll: 6
Associated Press: 4
Last Week: Lost vs. Texas 45-35
Too many mistakes to win the Red River Rivalry: penalties, they allowed a kick return for a touchdown and lost the turnover battle. OU needs to find a running game.
Up Next: 10/18: vs. Kansas; 10/25: @ Kansas St.

6. Georgia Bulldogs (8)
Record: 4-1 (1-1)
Coaches Poll: 9
Associated Press: 10
Last Week: Won vs. Tennessee 26-14
UGA got their win, but were sloppy finishing drives. Despite eight trips inside the Vols’ 25-yard line, five of which broke the ten-yard line, the Bulldogs penetrated the goal line only twice.
Up Next: 10/18: vs. Vanderbilt; 10/25: @ LSU

7. Oklahoma St. Cowboys (18)
Record: 6-0 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 10
Associated Press: 8
Last Week: Won @ Missouri 28-23
Force Missouri’s first three-and-out…check. Create turnovers…check. Shut down the Tigers’ running game…check. The Cowboys’ defense proved Oklahoma St. is not one-dimensional.
Up Next: 10/18: vs. Baylor; 10/25: @ Texas

8. Florida Gators (13)
Record: 5-1 (3-1)
Coaches Poll: 7
Associated Press: 5
Last Week: Won vs. LSU 51-21
After LSU cut Florida’s lead to 20-14, Tim Tebow had his best drive of the season: he ran for four yards on third-and-three, completed a 37-yard pass to the two-yard line and ran for the score.
Up Next: 10/18: BYE; 10/25: vs. Kentucky

9. Missouri Tigers (3)
Record: 5-1 (1-1)
Coaches Poll: 12
Associated Press: 11
Last Week: Lost vs. Oklahoma St. 28-23
None of Chase Daniels’ final 30 passes hit the ground, unfortunately for Mizzou, three of those throws landed in the waiting arms of Cowboys.
Up Next: 10/18: @ Texas; 10/25: vs. Colorado

10. Ohio St. Buckeyes (9)
Record: 6-1 (3-0)
Coaches Poll: 11
Associated Press: 12
Last Week: Won vs. Purdue 16-3
Not the blowout that was expected, but Ohio St. kept Purdue out of the end zone, limiting the Boilermakers to a field goal.
Up Next: 10/18: @ Michigan St.; 10/25: vs. PSU

11. LSU Tigers (2)
Record: 4-1 (2-1)
Coaches Poll: 13
Associated Press: 14
Last Week: Lost @ Florida 51-21
What happened? The short story: the Bayou Bengals lacked the speed on defense to slow down the Gators, and freshman quarterback Jarrett Lee was not ready for this spotlight.
Up Next: 10/18: @ South Carolina; 10/25: vs. UGA

12. Texas Tech (10)
Record: 6-0 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 5
Associated Press: 7
Last Week: Won vs. Nebraska 37-31
The defense allowed three fourth quarter touchdowns to force overtime, but senior Jamar Wall sealed it with the game’s first turnover, intercepting a Joe Ganz pass in overtime.
Up Next: 10/18: @ Texas A & M; 10/25: @ KU

13. Utah Utes (11)
Record: 7-0 (3-0)
Coaches Poll: 13
Associated Press: 14
Last Week: Won @ Wyoming 40-7
With a pair of defensive scores as bookends (interception return in the first quarter made it 7-0 and a fumble return in the fourth quarter capped the scoring) and a special teams touch-down in between, the offense was able ease up.
Up Next: 10/18: vs. Colorado St.; 10/25: BYE

14. BYU Cougars (12)
Record: 6-0 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 8
Associated Press: 9
Last Week: Won vs. New Mexico 21-3
Quarterback Max Hall bounced back nicely from his two-interception game at Utah St. by tossing three scoring strikes (no interceptions) against New Mexico. Wide out Austin Collie turned in his fourth straight 100-yard game (162 yards).
Up Next: 10/16: @ TCU; 10/25: vs. UNLV

15. South Florida Bulls (14)
Record: 5-1 (0-1)
Coaches Poll: 20
Associated Press: 19
Last Week: BYE
With the lowly Orange coming to Tampa, the Bulls should be able to avoid the mid-season losing streak that plagued them last season.
Up Next: 10/18: vs. Syracuse; 10/25: @ Louisville

16. Kansas Jayhawks (15)
Record: 5-1 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 15
Associated Press: 16
Last Week: Won vs. Colorado 30-14
KU finishes strong for the second straight week, putting the Buffs away on a pair of Jake Sharpe fourth quarter touchdown runs. Sharpe was a workhorse with 31 carries for 118 yards.
Up Next: 10/18: @ Oklahoma; 10/25: vs. T. Tech

17. Boise St. Broncos (17)
Record: 5-0 (1-0)
Coaches Poll: 16
Associated Press: 15
Last Week: Won @ Southern Miss 24-7
The Broncos went down south and took care of the Golden Eagles in the second quarter, when they put up 24 points. Freshman quarterback Kellen Moore was responsible for three scores.
Next: 10/17: vs. Hawaii; 10/24: @ San Jose St.

18. California Golden Bears (19)
Record: 4-1 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 22
Associated Press: 25
Last Week: BYE
The Bears had an extra week to prepare for the first of three tough road tests in Pac-10 play, with trips to Tucson, the Coliseum and Corvallis.
Up Next: 10/18: @ Arizona; 10/25: vs. UCLA

19. Virginia Tech Hokies (21)
Record: 5-1 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 18
Associated Press: 17
Last Week: BYE
Tech will visit a pair of Atlantic Division foes in the Seminoles and Eagles, setting up a pair of ACC Championship game rematches.
Up Next: 10/18: @ Boston College; 10/18: @ FSU

20. Michigan St. Spartans (NR)
Record: 6-1 (3-0)
Coaches Poll: 17
Associated Press: 20
Last Week: Won @ Northwestern 37-20
Sparty took advantage of two first quarter turnovers by Northwestern to jump out to a 17-0 lead and the ‘Cats never got closer than 10. State played mistake-free football—no turnovers. Javon Ringer reached the 1,000-yard plateau for the second straight year.
Up Next: 10/18: vs. Ohio St.; 10/25: @ Michigan

21. North Carolina (NR)
Record: 5-1 (1-1)
Coaches Poll: 21
Associated Press: 18
Last Week: Won vs. Notre Dame 29-24
The Tar Heels were out-gained by 150 yards by the Irish, but when you win the turnover battle by five, yards don’t matter as much. Linebacker Quan Sturdivant returned a pick for six.
Up Next: 10/18: @ Virginia; 10/25: vs. BC

22. Vanderbilt Commodores (13)
Record: 5-2 (3-2)
Coaches Poll: 23
Associated Press: 22
Last Week: Lost @ Miss. St. 17-14
Don’t call it an upset—the talent between Vanderbilt and Mississippi St. is fairly even, which showed on Saturday. The ‘Dores were able to muster up just 107 yards of total offense.
Up Next: 10/18: @ Georgia; 10/25: vs. Duke

23. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (22)
Record: 4-1 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 19
Associated Press: 21
Last Week: Won vs. Clemson 12-7
With their win over Clemson in a lifeless contest, the Demon Deacons remain the lone undefeated club in the Atlantic Division. Star defenders Aaron Curry (game-high nine tackles) and Alphonso Smith (interception) shined.
Up Next: 10/18: @ Maryland; 10/25: @ Maryland

24. Tulsa Golden Hurricane (NR)
Record: 6-0 (3-0)
Coaches Poll: 26
Associated Press: 26
Last Week: Won @ SMU 37-31
The Golden Hurricane failed to score at least 45 points for the first time this season, but 37 were enough to win and crack the CFI Top 25.
Up Next: 10/18: vs. UTEP; 10/26: vs. UCF

25. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (NR)
Record: 5-1 (2-1)
Coaches Poll: 30
Associated Press: 30
Last Week: Won vs. Gard.-Webb 10-7
The Ramblin’ Wreck’s lone blemish is a three-point loss at Virginia Tech.
Up Next: 10/18: @ Clemson; 10/25: vs. Virginia

Five to Watch: Ball St., Cincinnati, Minnesota, Pittsburgh, TCU

Dropped Out: Auburn (20), Wisconsin (23), Illinois (24), Kentucky (25)

This Date in College Football History

Oct. 8, 1955: In Auburn, fullback Joe Childress and halfback Fob James (future Alabama governor) move into first and second place on Auburn's career rushing list, passing the mark set in 1942 by Monk Gafford (1,435 yards rushing). The Tigers play to a 14-14 tie with Kentucky.

Credit: The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame

Top 25 - Week Six

1. Oklahoma Sooners (1)
Record: 5-0 (1-0)
Coaches Poll: 1
Associated Press: 1
Last Week: Won @ Baylor 49-17
The Sooners came out like gangbusters, taking a 28-0 first quarter lead. Linebackers Travis Lewis, Keenan Clayton and Ryan Reynolds combined for 36 tackles and 1.5 sacks (4.5 TFLs).
Up Next: 10/11: vs. Texas; 10/18: vs. Kansas

2. LSU Tigers (2)
Record: 4-0 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 3
Associated Press: 4
Last Week: BYE
LSU had Saturday off, but Coach Les Miles wanted to ensure they wouldn’t get rusty, so he had his Tigers scrimmage (70 plays) as they prepare for their trip to “The Swamp”.
Up Next: 10/11: @ Florida; 10/18: @ S. Carolina

3. Missouri Tigers (3)
Record: 5-0 (1-0)
Coaches Poll: 2
Associated Press: 3
Last Week: Won @ Nebraska 52-17
Payback is a…you can fill in the blank. The last time the Tigers won in Lincoln was 30 years ago and they were unrelenting on Saturday.
Up Next: 10/11: vs. Ok. St.; 10/18: @ Texas

4. Alabama Crimson Tide (4)
Record: 6-0 (3-0)
Coaches Poll: 4
Associated Press: 2
Last Week: Won vs. Kentucky 17-14
It was the Paul Coffee show in Tuscaloosa on Saturday. While John Parker Wilson (7-of-17) struggled, the junior tailback rumbled for 218 yards, including a 78-yard scoring scamper.
Up Next: 10/11: BYE; 10/18: vs. Mississippi

5. Penn St. Nittany Lions (5)
Record: 6-0 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 6
Associated Press: 6
Last Week: Won @ Purdue 20-6
PSU controlled the game in every aspect— quarterback Daryll Clark was sharp (18-of-26 passing), tailback Evan Royster explosive (141 yards) and the defense stifling (241 yards).
Up Next: 10/11: @ Wisconsin; 10/18: vs. Mich.

6. Texas Longhorns (7)
Record: 5-0 (1-0)
Coaches Poll: 5
Associated Press: 5
Last Week: Won @ Colorado 38-14
Senior tailback Chris Ogbonnaya, recently named a Draddy Trophy semifinalist, had a standout game with 71 rushing yards on just nine carries and 116 receiving yards on six receptions.
Up Next: 10/11: vs. Oklahoma; 10/18: vs. Mizzou

7. Southern California Trojans (9)
Record: 3-1 (1-1)
Coaches Poll: 9
Associated Press: 8
Last Week: Won vs. Oregon 44-10
How good were the Trojans on Saturday? Even Ohio St. felt bad for the Ducks. USC outgained Oregon 598 yards to 239 yards.
Up Next: 10/11: vs. Arizona St.; 10/18: @ WSU

8. Georgia Bulldogs (8)
Record: 4-1 (1-1)
Coaches Poll: 10
Associated Press: 10
Last Week: BYE
The Dawgs used their bye week to lick their wounds and hopefully, to get healthy. Starting with UT, UGA has six straight weeks of football.
Up Next: 10/11: vs. Tennessee; 10/18: Vanderbilt

9. Ohio St. Buckeyes (11)
Record: 5-1 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 11
Associated Press: 12
Last Week: Won @ Wisconsin 20-17
Quarterback Terrelle Pryor came of age on the Buckeyes’ final drive in Madison. Trailing 17-13 late in the game, the freshman completed 3-of-4 passes for 59 yards and finished the drive with an 11-yard game-winning scoring scamper.
Up Next: 10/11: vs. Purdue; 10/18: @ MSU

10. Texas Tech (12)
Record: 5-0 (1-0)
Coaches Poll: 7
Associated Press: 7
Last Week: Won @ Kansas St. 58-28
Quarterback Graham Harrell had 316 yards and five touchdown passes—at the half. He finished with 454 yards and six scoring passes. Tech doubled K-State in total yards gained: 626 to 296.
Up Next: 10/11: vs. Nebraska; 10/18: @ T. A & M

11. Utah Utes (13)
Record: 6-0 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 13
Associated Press: 14
Last Week: Won vs. Oregon St. 31-28
Utah scored 11 points in the final 1:30 to stay undefeated—a 25-yard touchdown pass by Brian Johnson brought them within two, a Johnson run tied the score, and a Louie Sakoda kick won it.
Up Next: 10/11: @ Wyoming; 10/18: vs. CSU

12. BYU Cougars (14)
Record: 5-0 (1-0)
Coaches Poll: 8
Associated Press: 9
Last Week: Won @ Utah St. 34-14
The game was over after the first quarter, as BYU jumped out to a 24-0 lead. They scored through the air (Austin Collie), on the ground (Harvey Unga) and on defense (Brandon Bradley).
Up Next: 10/11: vs. New Mexico; 10/16: @ TCU

13. Vanderbilt Commodores (21)
Record: 5-0 (3-0)
Coaches Poll: 14
Associated Press: 13
Last Week: Won vs. Auburn 14-13
When Auburn jumped out to 13-0 first quarter lead, raise your hand if you thought the clock struck midnight for Cinderella? You were not alone. That was all scoring Vandy would allow.
Up Next: 10/11: @ Miss. St.; 10/18: @ Georgia

13. Florida Gators (15)
Record: 4-1 (2-1)
Coaches Poll: 12
Associated Press: 11
Last Week: Won @ Arkansas 38-7
The Gators had two 100-yard rushers and neither was named Tim Tebow or Percy Harvin. Chris Rainey (10.3 YPC) and Jeffrey Demps (14.6 YPC) each rushed for 103 yards as they pulled away.
Up Next: 10/11: vs. LSU; 10/18: BYE

14. South Florida Bulls (6)
Record: 5-1 (0-1)
Coaches Poll: 20
Associated Press: 19
Last Week: Lost vs. Pittsburgh 26-21
By the time USF’s offense got going, the defense was already worn down and couldn’t protect a 21-20 lead. Pitt ran 17 more plays than the Bulls.
Up Next: 10/11: BYE; 10/18: vs. Syracuse

15. Kansas Jayhawks (16)
Record: 4-1 (1-0)
Coaches Poll: 15
Associated Press: 16
Last Week: Won @ Iowa St. 35-33
The Jayhawks found themselves on the wrong side of a 20-0 halftime score. However, a 67-yard touchdown pass from Todd Reesing to tailback Jake Sharpe on their first offensive play of the second half sparked a thrilling comeback.
Up Next: 10/11: vs. Colorado; 11/18: @ OU

17. Boise St. Broncos (17)
Record: 4-0 (1-0)
Coaches Poll: 16
Associated Press: 15
Last Week: Won vs. Louisiana Tech 38-3
Southpaw Kellen Moore topped 300 yards passing for the second straight game and added two touchdown passes in his first WAC win.
Next: 10/11: @ Southern Miss; 10/17: vs. Hawaii

18. Oklahoma St. Cowboys (18)
Record: 5-0 (1-0)
Coaches Poll: 17
Associated Press: 17
Last Week: Won vs. Texas A & M 56-28
In their tune up for Missouri, the Cowboys were led by sophomore wide out Dez Bryant. The Texas native scored four touchdowns—three by air (five receptions for 106 yards) and one on a 78-yard punt return to put the Pokes up 21-0.
Up Next: 10/11: @ Missouri; 10/18: vs. Baylor

19. California Golden Bears (22)
Record: 4-1 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 25
Associated Press: NR
Last Week: Won vs. Arizona St. 24-14
California took control of the game with three scores in the game’s first 20 minutes, including a pair of touchdown passes by Nate Longshore—he threw in all—as he returned to the starting role.
Up Next: 10/11: BYE; 10/18: @ Arizona

20. Auburn Tigers (10)
Record: 4-2 (2-2)
Coaches Poll: 23
Associated Press: 20
Last Week: Lost @ Vanderbilt 14-13
After scoring two touchdowns in the opening stanza, the Tigers’ offense was shutout for the final three quarters in Nashville. Quarterback Chris Todd completed just 8-of-16 passes and his back Kodi Burns was just as bad (2-of-6).
Up Next: 10/11: vs. Arkansas; 10/18: BYE

21. Virginia Tech Hokies (23)
Record: 5-1 (2-0)
Coaches Poll: 18
Associated Press: 18
Last Week: Won vs. Western Kentucky 27-13
The Hokies struggled to get their running game going, averaging just three yards a carry. For the second straight game, freshman Darren Evans failed to reach 80 yards despite 21 carries.
Up Next: 10/11: BYE; 10/18: @ Boston College

22. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (24)
Record: 3-0 (1-0)
Coaches Poll: 21
Associated Press: 21
Last Week: BYE
Riley Skinner looks to bounce back from his five turnover game (four interceptions), as the Demon Deacons look to take control in the ACC Atlantic.
Up Next: 10/9: vs. Clemson; 10/18: @ Maryland

23. Wisconsin Badgers (19)
Record: 3-1 (0-1)
Coaches Poll: 24
Associated Press: NR
Last Week: Lost @ Michigan 27-25
After blowing back-to-back halftime leads to UM and OSU, what do they have left in the tank?
Up Next: 10/4: vs. Ohio St.; 10/11: vs. Penn St.

24. Illinois Fighting Illini (25)
Record: 3-2 (1-1)
Coaches Poll: NR
Associated Press: NR
Last Week: Won @ Michigan 45-20
Junior Juice Williams showed 110,000 that he can throw the football (310 yards, two touchdowns), as well as run it (121 yards, two touchdowns).
Up Next: 10/11: vs. Minnesota; 10/18: vs. Indiana

25. Kentucky Wildcats (20)
Record: 4-1 (0-1)
Coaches Poll: NR
Associated Press: NR
Last Week: Lost @ Alabama 17-14
The offense leaves much to be desired, but the Cats’ defense proved to be very worthy.
Up Next: 10/11: vs. USC; 10/18: vs. Arkansas

Five to Watch: Ball St., Michigan St., North Carolina, Pittsburgh, Tulsa

Dropped Out: No Teams Dropped

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

Fans Weekend Guide - Week Six

Conference Pride is on the Line When…
North Carolina Hosts Connecticut (October 4, 7:00, ESPN2): Which conference has more to prove—the Big East or the ACC? The Tar Heels enter this game 3-1, including an impressive 44-12 win over Rutgers in their lone trip up north. Meanwhile, the undefeated Huskies took care of their previous ACC foe when they handled Virginia 45-10. Connecticut now must cross the Mason-Dixon Line for an inter-conference battle. UConn will be without their leader, Tyler Lorenzen went down last week and could be out for up to two months. Sophomore Zach Frazer will attempt to replace the talismanic Lorenzen. The Huskies still boast the nation’s leading rusher in Donald Brown (906 yards, 11 touchdowns). They won’t receive any sympathy from North Carolina, who lost their starting signal caller Tyler Yates a week earlier. Third stringer Cameron Sexton stepped in last week and threw for 242 yards and two touchdowns in UNC’s comeback win over Miami.

The Conference Title is on the Line When…
USC Hosts Oregon (October 4, 8:00, ABC): Entering the week, the Ducks sit atop the Pac-10 standings with a 2-0 record in conference play, while the Trojans are still smarting over their loss on Thursday night to Oregon St. USC is happy not to have to make the trip back to the great northwest, and Oregon should not expect a gracious host this Saturday. A week after USC lost the “Quizz Show”, you can be sure the Ducks will look to feed tailbacks Jeremiah Johnson and LeGarrett Blount. The onus will be on the Trojans’ talented front seven, led by stellar senior linebackers Rey Maualuga in the middle and Brian Cushing (below) at the strongside position.

Don’t Call it an Upset When…
Alabama Visits Kentucky (October 4, 3:30, CBS): OK…you can call it an upset. The Tide have ripped through two top teams in September, but everyone is susceptible to the upset bug. UK has an underrated front seven. Linebacker Braxton Kelley (above) leads the team with 21 tackles and three sacks and if Micah Johnson can return healthy, they may have enough bulk to handle Alabama’s physical rushing attack.

The Team That Can’t Afford to Look Ahead is…
Texas Visiting Colorado (October 4, 7:00, FoxSports): The ‘Horns take on the Sooners next week in Dallas in what figures to be a match-up of top five foes. However, before they get there, UT must conquer the Rockies. The Buffs are coming off a loss to FSU, but are dangerous at home— they knocked off No. 21 West Virginia this year and No. 3 Oklahoma last season.

The Team on the Cusp is…
Michigan St. Hosting Iowa (October 4, 12:00, ESPN2): Javon Ringer (897 yards, 12 touch-downs) is trying to single-handedly carry the Spartans into the top 25, but if they are to earn a ranking, the MSU defense will have to perform better than they did last week at Indiana.

A Football Fan’s Four-Pack…

Illinois @ Michigan – (October 4, 3:30, ABC): This match-up will mark the 90th meeting between the two Big-Ten programs, with Michigan holding a 9-1 advantage in the last 10 contests. Look for Illinois junior quarterback Juice Williams (above) to try and attack the Wolverines via the pass. Michigan’s defense has held opponents to 88.5 rushing yards per game, while allowing 220.8 through the air this season. The Illini’s porous run defense (182.5 yards per game) should allow freshman Sam McGuffie to have quite a day in “The Big House.”

Super Senior: Brit Miller, LB, Illinois

Star of Tomorrow: Sam McGuffie, RB, UM

FSU @ Miami – (October 4, 3:30, ABC): The Hurricanes and the Seminoles both enter the contest with very stingy run defenses. Miami ranks seventh nationally in rushing defense (65.0 yards per game), while FSU is eighth nationally in rushing defense (67.2). Just a hunch, but some pass plays may factor into the both game plans. Also look for Miami to have an extra-large chip on its shoulder coming off a heartbreaking loss to North Carolina. The Canes will be looking to take out their frustration on someone after falling victim to a scoring pass with 46 seconds left in their ACC opener last Saturday.

Super Senior: Derek Nicholson, LB, FSU

Star of Tomorrow: Sean Spence, LB, Miami

Arizona St. @ Cal – (October 4, 3:30, ABC): The Bears have won four of the last five meetings with the Sun Devils, but will be looking to avenge last year's 31-20 loss in Tempe. A match-up to keep an eye on is Arizona State’s senior signal caller Rudy Carpenter against the play-making corners of Cal, led by Syd’Quan Thompson and Brett Johnson.

Super Senior: Keegan Herring, RB, Arizona State

Star of Tomorrow: Shane Vereen, RB, Cal

Auburn @ Vanderbilt – (October 4, 6:00, ESPN): No. 13 Auburn has won its last 13 games against No. 19 Vanderbilt. But the Commodores, who are 2-0 in the SEC for just the third time since 1956, lead the nation in turnover margin (+2.25) and are tied for the national lead in fewest penalties (11). This should be a good test for a Vanderbilt squad that is nationally ranked for the first time since 1984. Look for a rugged SEC battle in this one.

Super Senior: Reshard Langford, S, Vanderbilt

Star of Tomorrow: Zac Ethridge, SS, Auburn

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media, John Pyle

Fan’s Weekend Guide

The Conference Title is on the Line When…

Auburn Hosts Tennessee (September 27, 3:30, CBS): Each team is coming off a loss, but as we learned last season, one, even two losses in SEC play does not rule one out from making the championship game. LSU repress-ented the West last year with two losses, as did Tennessee out of the East, and one of the Vols’ two losses was a 59-20 drubbing at the hands of the Florida Gators. Win or lose, if UT signal caller Jonathan Crompton does not play better, Tennessee could find themselves missing a bowl game for the second time in four years.

Conference Pride is on the Line When…

UCLA Hosts Fresno St. (September 27, 3:30, ABC): Two weeks ago, the Pac-10 conference went 0-4 when they took the “Mountain West Challenge”. TCU drubbed Stanford, New Mexico upended Arizona, UNLV upset Arizona St. and BYU absolutely undressed the Bruins 59-0. Last week, Oregon fell to Boise St., the Broncos first ever road win over a BCS conference foe. So, before the Pac-10 can talk about playing with the likes of the SEC and Big 12, (USC excluded) they need to show they can hang with the mid-majors west of the Mississippi. To some, Fresno St. is the ultimate BCS buster—anytime, anyplace. If they are to live up to that standard, a season-opening win over Rutgers won’t be enough. A loss to the Bruins would not only knock the Bulldogs out of the polls, but place the WAC clearly behind the MWC on the mid-major totem pole.

The Team That Can’t Afford to Look Ahead is…

Wisconsin Visiting Michigan (September 27, 3:30, ABC): Whoever thought the Badgers could look past a trip to the Big House? With the Wolverines reeling at 1-2 and a visit from the Buckeyes coming the following week, Wisconsin needs to be careful that they don’t put the cart before the horse. Michigan is a prideful bunch (really, they are) and would love nothing more than to get Rich Rodriguez his first marquee win with everyone counting them out. If Wisconsin is going to be in the running for a Big Ten title, they must put away the Maize and Blue.

Don’t Call it an Upset When…

Illinois Visits Penn St. (September 27, 8:00, ABC): Penn St. has dominated their opponents by an average margin of 53-10. Of course those opponents—Coastal Carolina, Oregon St., Syracuse ad Temple—have a combined record of 5-10, with three of those wins coming against FCS foes. So, we may not know as much about the Nittany Lions as we think. While the Illini have been lackluster in the early going, this is a major step up in competition. With quarterback Juice Williams and wide out Rejus Benn on offense and a defense that features star cornerback Vernon Davis and man-child Martez Wilson at linebacker, Illinois is not wanting for talent.

The Team on the Cusp is…

Colorado Visiting Florida St. (September 27, 3:30, ABC): The Buffs are undefeated and coming off a victory over a ranked foe (WVU). They could find themselves cracking the polls if Cody Hawkins (below) can lead them to another upset.

A Football Fan’s Four-Pack…

Purdue @ Notre Dame (September 27, 3:30, NBC): This will be the 80th all-time meeting between the two schools. Will Notre Dame bounce back from a loss last week? How will Purdue fare in their first contest away from home -- especially in the unfriendly confines of South Bend? In Joe Tiller’s final meeting with the Irish, one thing should be a certainty—the Boilermakers will play hard.

Super Senior: Kory Sheets, RB, Purdue

Star of Tomorrow: Golden Tate, WR, ND

Mississippi St. @ LSU (September 27, 7:30, ESPN2): Will the Bulldogs be able to contend with the Bayou Bengals at home? LSU has held their opponents to a mere 55.3 yards per-game average on the ground so fat this season. But Mississippi State’s quarterback Wesley Carroll has thrown six interceptions this year and only three touchdowns. It’s a pick your poison type of theme for Sylvester Croom’s boys.

Super Senior: Derek Pegues, FS, Mississippi State

Star of Tomorrow: Kelvin Sheppard, LB, LSU

Arkansas @ Texas (September 27, 3:30, ABC): In a game postponed from Sept. 13, due to Hurricane Ike, the No. 7 Longhorns will look to have their stout run-defense ready and waiting for the Razorbacks. Through three games, Texas has held their opponents to a total of 199 rushing yards. Look for Arkansas to attack through the air, early and often.

Super Senior: Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas

Star of Tomorrow: Jerry Franklin, MLB, Ark.

Virginia Tech @ Nebraska (September 27, 8:00, ABC): Will Virginia Tech be able to contain the Nebraska offense? Under first-year head coach Bo Pelini, the Huskers are averaging 189 yards-per-game on the ground and 261.3 through the air. Look for the Hokies to have a busy day on the defensive side of the ball. Linebacker Brett Warren, who had 15 tackles last week against Georgia Tech, better get a good night of sleep before this one.

Super Senior: Orion Martin, DE, Virginia Tech

Star of Tomorrow: Eric Hagg, CB, Nebraska

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media, University of Texas Athletics

SEC Week Four Preview

By ARTHUR DICESARE - SEC INSIDER

With great teams, a strong sense of tradition, and a seemingly endless supply of top players, it’s a no brainier to call the SEC the flagship conference. In this recent “BCS” era the SEC has separated itself from the other top conferences. They have won four national championships--more than any other conference--and they bring back the reigning Heisman Trophy winner in Tim Tebow. With five teams ranked in the top 10, it is the first time since the AP poll began in 1936, that any conference has had five teams ranked in the top ten. Let’s take a look ahead to three key match-ups in the SEC this week.

#4 Florida @ Tennessee 3:30pm: The third Saturday in September always provides us with one of the SEC’s best match-ups. Even with Tennessee off to a slow start, you can expect a hard fought game on both sides. Tennessee will look to exact some revenge for the 59-20 beat down they took last year in the Swamp. The likelihood of us seeing a down-to-the-wire classic is slim. One of the many enjoyable match-ups to watch will come when Florida receiver Percy Harvin is split out against Tennessee safety Eric Berry. Both are among the best in the conference. Florida simply has too much firepower on offense. PREDICTION: Gators big, 34-13.

#6 LSU @ #10 Auburn 7:45pm: The last four match-ups, were decided by a combined 14 points, including a last second win by LSU last season and an over time game in 2005. When these teams get together, you can expect hard hitting and superior athletes—they will keep you on the edge of your seat. The 2008 version should be a low scoring defensive battle, and the winner may just be sparked by a late turnover or a special teams play. PREDICTION: Picking a winner is like watching a pendulum. Go with Auburn protecting home field in a squeaker, 14-13.

#3 Georgia @ Arizona State 8:00pm: Georgia comes off a grind it out win on the road against South Carolina, while Arizona St. limps in off a terrible loss at home to UNLV. The Sun Devils have allowed an average of 129 yards rushing to their first three opponents, and none of them had a back as talented as Knowshon Moreno. Expect Moreno to have a huge game, which will open up the passing lanes for Matthew Stafford. If Georgia doesn’t look ahead to Alabama, they should be fine. PREDICTION: Georgia takes care of business 31-17.

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media

Tuberville Names Auburn Quarterback

All Access Football reports that Chris Todd will start at quarterback for No. 9 Auburn on Saturday against Southern Mississippi.

Tigers coach Tommy Tuberville said Tuesday that he had planned to start Todd even before Kodi Burns was injured in the opener.

Burns, who started Auburn's 34-0 win over Louisiana-Monroe, was cut on his left leg in the third quarter. He practiced Tuesday on a limited basis and Tuberville said Burns wouldn't play unless he's fully recovered.

CFI RANKINGS: #4 AUBURN TIGERS

2007 RECORD: 9-4; SEC: 5-3
Won Chik-fil-A Bowl vs. Clemson 23-20 (OT)
LOCATION: Auburn, Alabama
STADIUM: Jordan-Hare Stadium (87,451)
HEAD COACH: Tommy Tuberville
OVERALL: 105-53 (13 seasons)
AT AUBURN: 80-33 (9 seasons)

Auburn struggled early on last year, losing at home to both South Florida and Mississippi St. to start the season 1-2. A new offensive line, which featured three freshmen starters, and a lack of productivity at quarterback made a quick start nearly impossible. Eventually, they got it together behind their defense to win tough road battles at Florida and Arkansas, but trips to Baton Rouge and Athens prevented them from reaching ten wins…a total that is a minimum for the 2008 season.

WHEN THE TIGERS HAVE THE BALL

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Tony Franklin (1st Season)
OFFENSIVE STARTERS RETURNING: 8
KEY LOSSES: Brandon Cox, Carl Stewart

There is nothing like bringing back five starters along the offensive line, especially when they are all talented. LT Lee Ziemba made 13 starts last season as a true freshman and senior OG Tyronne Green is ready to break out in his final season in Auburn. The offense will be better for some of the struggles from a year ago. They are going to the spread offense, but expect the Tigers to run all over their opponents. Senior TB Brad Lester is back and provides the shiftiness in the backfield they missed early on last season. Junior Ben Tate is more of a classic between the tackles power runner. The depth doesn’t stop there, as Tristan Davis probably gives them the best combo of size/speed and Mario Fannin, who will be lining up wide most of the time, may be their most physically impressive offensive player. They are not quite as well stocked at receiver, but should be fine as long as they get improved quarterback play, which leads us to the battle between Kodi Burns and Chris Todd. Burns was the difference maker in their bowl victory over Clemson, the first time Auburn unveiled OC Tony Franklin’s offense. He is the better runner, while Todd is more of a pure passer who played in Franklin’s system in high school.

TOP PROSPECTS: 1) OT Lee Ziemba (SO), 2) OT Ryan Pugh (SO)

WHEN THE OTHER TEAM HAS THE BALL

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Paul Rhodes (1st Season)
DEFENSIVE STARTERS RETURNING: 7
KEY LOSSES: Quintin Groves, Pat Sims, Patrick Lee, Jonathan Wilhite, Josh Thompson, Eric Brock

Will Muschamp, the DC, was a big loss. However, Paul Rhodes’ defense at Pittsburgh was actually ranked higher than the bunch at Auburn last season. They must replace a couple of productive players along the defensive line, but return two of the better lineman in the SEC with Sen’Derrick Marks moving back to defensive tackle and DE Antonio Coleman coming off the edge. Expect both to be forces penetrating into the offensive backfield. What the defense could use is a full season from talented junior MIKE Tray Blackmon, who can cover ground sideline-to-sideline, but has trouble staying on the field. They have three OLBs who expect to contribute, with sophomore Craig Stevens the most intriguing after making seven starts as a freshman. They must replace Patrick Lee, but junior CB Jerraud Powers appears ready to be the number one guy—Powers matched Lee pick-for-pick and he was among the leading tacklers a year ago. They are set at safety, with sophomores Zac Etheridge and Mike McNeil ready to make their presence felt in the SEC.

TOP PROSPECTS: 1) DL Sen’Derrick Marks (JR), 2) DE Antonio Coleman (JR)

THE SCHEDULE

Location, location, location…Auburn doesn’t have many creampuffs on the docket, but their schedule plays to the Tigers’ advantage. After they open up SEC play with an early trip to Starkville to take some measure of revenge on Mississippi St (MSU knocked them off in week three, last season), Auburn plays host to LSU. Odds are that game will decide who represents the SEC West in the conference championship game. Not only does LSU come to Jordan-Hare stadium but so do East rivals Tennessee and Georgia. Other than Mississippi St., they do not face a tough road test in conference play until they close out the year with a trip to Tuscaloosa. They do travel to Morgantown in late October and a win over West Virginia could make these Tigers, players in the BCS title chase.

PIVOTAL POINT

Adjustments: Auburn has experienced players returning at every position, except for quarterback. The signal caller could very well be the pivotal point, but they appear to have a couple a solid options and that position should work out just fine. Something the entire team will have to do is adjust to new coordinators on both sides of the ball. Tony Franklin orchestrated an explosive offense at Troy before coming over to coach the Auburn offense in the Chik-fil-A Bowl. Rhodes’ defense with the Pitt Panthers was among the best in the nation and he will have more talent to play with, if they adjust to his coaching style. The adjustments will be made. The question is—how long will take?

CFI FINAL ANALYSIS

The Auburn Tigers have alternated seasons reaching double digits in wins since Tommy Tuberville’s status as headman was put into question. In 2004, they went undefeated on their way to 13 wins, won nine games in 2005, reached 11 wins in 2006 and posted “only” nine wins again last season. It is an even year…so you know that means. The Tigers will battle LSU for the West and are among the favorites for the SEC. Their schedule isn’t brutal for an SEC program, making the Tigers National Title sleepers.

Photo Credit: Todd J. Van Emst (Auburn University Athletic Dept. Photographer)

Iron Bowl QBs have big ups and downs

By JOHN ZENOR
AP Sports Writer

AUBURN, Ala. (AP) - Auburn's Brandon Cox and Alabama's John Parker Wilson have alternately thrilled and exasperated.

The two quarterbacks have led winning drives, gotten up after countless hits and captured big victories. Then there's the flip side: Misfires, interceptions and assorted mistakes that have made both the targets of boos and criticism.

All that makes for one of the most tantalizing mysteries leading up to Saturday's Iron Bowl at No. 25 Auburn's Jordan-Hare Stadium. Which Wilson will show up? Which Cox?

Teammates and coaches have spent the week leading up to the game on the defensive about their quarterbacks.

``We have confidence in John Parker,'' Crimson Tide linebacker Darren Mustin said. ``Everybody has bad games. He's my quarterback. I've got his back.''

Auburn tailback Ben Tate offered a similar sentiment on Cox. He points to dropped balls, missed blocks and other miscues that have affected Cox's production.

``Everybody's always down on the quarterback when things aren't always going right, but it's not always the quarterback's fault,'' Tate said. ``Everybody has seen what he can do. He has won plenty of games with last-minute drives. I always have confidence in him.''

Sometimes it doesn't quite seem warranted.

Cox was intercepted four times for the Tigers (7-4, 4-3 Southeastern Conference) in their last outing at No. 6 Georgia two weeks ago. He's also the guy who has led Auburn on scoring drives to take the lead five times in the final four minutes of games this season, including winning drives at Florida and Arkansas.

``He's had four or five drives at the end of the game this year that were picture perfect,'' Tigers coach Tommy Tuberville said. ``He's got experience. He understands how to prepare for a game like this one. He's played in this one before, and he likes this game.

``I like a quarterback like Brandon going into this game. He doesn't get rattled, doesn't get shook. He can take a lick and get back up and make a big play the next play. I'm looking forward to him playing this game.''

Wilson has been frequently off-target for the Tide (6-5, 4-3) in their last three games, all losses. He has been intercepted five times and had a costly fumble in the final minutes against No. 1 LSU.

He's also the guy who picked Tennessee's secondary apart for 363 yards and three touchdowns and threw the game-winning touchdown pass against Arkansas.

Alabama coach Nick Saban said Wilson prepared like a coach before last week's Louisiana-Monroe game, spending late nights studying film. Saban appreciated the effort, which led to better numbers despite the two interceptions, one of them off a deflected ball.

``I have a lot better feeling about working with guys that really want to be good and are trying to be good and doing the right things than if they don't care about it,'' Saban said.

Wilson said the extra preparation helped. He stayed in the film room as late as 11 p.m. before going home to do more work. He said making smart decisions doesn't mean being overly cautious.

``You have to be conscious of the mistakes you've made, but you can't go out there and not throw a ball because you might get it picked,'' he said. ``You have to understand what you're seeing and understand what the defense is doing and you have to protect the ball. That's the No. 1 goal.''

Cox ranks 79th nationally in pass efficiency rating, throwing for only nine touchdowns against 11 interceptions. Wilson is 12 spots behind him. He has 15 TDs and 10 interceptions but is completing a modest 55 percent of his passes.

Like all Iron Bowl quarterbacks, they shoulder a big load in this game. Tuberville doesn't sugarcoat it.

``If you're from this state, as both quarterbacks are playing in this game, there's a ton of pressure,'' Tuberville said.

For all their mistakes, Cox and Wilson aren't all to blame for the woes.

Both have been operating behind makeshift offensive lines due to injuries and suspensions. The Tigers and Tide have each allowed 22 sacks, making the two quarterbacks' seasons seem even more similar.

Cox and Wilson are climbing their schools' career charts, whatever their faults.

Cox is 25-9 as a starter and can match Heisman Trophy winner Pat Sullivan for third in school history in career wins with a victory in the Iron Bowl or a bowl game. Only Jason Campbell (31) and Stan White (29) have won more.

``When Cox goes, they go,'' said Arkansas coach Houston Nutt, whose team lost to the Tigers. ``When Cox is hitting some passes, they're very good.''

Wilson, meanwhile, is already fourth all-time in passing yards and touchdowns for Alabama, though he's only a junior and a second-year starter.

Mustin said he and his fellow defenders need to do more to help the quarterback out - not just the other way around.

``We have not bailed him out yet this year,'' he said. ``We have not done that. I feel like we've failed him. We've got to bail him out in certain situations. That's how I feel about that.''

Source: ncaafootball; Photo Credit: Todd J. Van Emst (Auburn University Athletic Dept. Photographer)

CFI: THE SEC REPORT

BY RAFAEL GARCIA
SEC INSIDER

FULLY ARMED
* AT&Tebow does it again. He was more than just Superman as he passed for a career high 304 yards going 22-of-32 with one interception and two touchdowns. He shows that he has the whole package when healthy. He reads the field well and can hit receivers on the numbers. What makes it so hard for defenses is this guy is too big to just go down. He continues to make his case for the Heisman.

* Vanderbilt’s Mackenzi Adams continues to blossom in coach Bobby Johnson’s offense. He is managing the game better each week and that showed as he went 20-of-31 for a career high 193 yards and two touchdowns. Granted there is room for improvement as he made mistakes.

ROAD RUNNERS
* AT&Tebow again folks. He not only has a great passing day, but tops it off with 26 carries for 120 yards and five rushing touchdowns. You can see that this guy is for real as he goes head first into defenders with no fear. He knows that he is counted on to throw as well as run and he does both. No Percy Harvin was no problem for Tebow. Now all he needs is some help from other teams in the East to make it to Atlanta.

* Tennessee duo of Arian Foster and Montario Hardesty. The knew they had to control the ball and keep out of the hands of Arkansas’ two-headed monster of Darren McFadden and Felix Jones. They combined for 33 carries and 148 yards and a Foster touchdown.

* Arkansas’ McFadden worked hard to get 117 yards on 22 carries. He was shut down to the tune of 25 yards in the first half but still managed to get over one hundred after his running mate Felix Jones was injured. Even though the bulk of those yards came after the game was about decided he still showed how good he can be.

BIG HITS
* UT had a defensive gem against Arkansas. Vols defensive coordinator John Chavis said his plan was what he called “probably the smallest package we’ve ever taken into a game since I’ve been here”. He told his players to buy into to the plan and they would come out winners. Then the defense went out and executed it to near perfection. The Hogs’ running game was shut down and they could never get into a rhythm. Give the defense an A on this day.

* The men in Georgia came out wearing black uniforms further showing that coach Mark Richt is not your laid back coach these days. He is trying to find every way to motivate his team as they find themselves at number nine in the BCS. They are fighting for an SEC East title as well as a BCS bowl berth. So when Auburn took a 20-17 lead in the third quarter the defense took over. They did not allow another score.

* The Mississippi State defense was just superb. They kept Alabama QB John Parker Wilson off balance all day as he finished a dismal 16-of-34 for 121 yards and two interceptions. Most importantly they held the ‘Bama offense out of the end zone. Anthony Johnson returned an interception 100 yards for a score on a bad pass by Wilson to close out the first half. The great effort made Mississippi State bowl eligible for the first time since 2000.

AIN’T THAT SPECIAL
* Alabama kicker Leigh Tiffin accounted for all of his team’s points in the loss to Mississippi State. He had field goals of 39, 51, 29, and 50 yards.

* UT’s is finding a return man in Denis Rogan, as he had a kickoff return for 78 yards as well as four punt returns for 32 yards. Kicker Daniel Lincoln continues his good season with two more filed goals and punter Britton Colquitt had five punts for 201 yards.

* Mississippi State special teams got 144 return yards in their win over Alabama.

INTO THE MINDS
* At Vanderbilt a win would make the ‘Dores bowl eligible for the first time in a quarter century. Mistakes cost them big in this one. They had eight penalties for 65 yards as well as two missed field goals and a missed point after. Then there was the sack late in the game followed by a spike instead of what most thought would be a timeout called. Finally it ended with an Adams pass that sailed over his receiver’s head on the final play. This was very discouraging for Coach Johnson as his team won the statistical battle but not the war. They out-gained the Wildcats, had more first downs, and controlled the time of possession.

* Down in Georgia Coach Richt is getting his team ready for the stretch run. They still need help in the East as Tennessee holds the tiebreaker but are also fighting for a BCS bowl berth. Richt has abandoned the laid back approach and is now using all kinds of tactics to fire up his team. First it was the celebration in the end zone against Florida and then they come out in black jerseys against Auburn. Let’s see what he comes up with next as his Dawgs try to bite and claw their way up the rankings.

* Tennessee controls their own destiny but they cannot afford to slip up. Coach Phillip Fulmer has installed an “us against the world” attitude and will need every bit of it if the Vols hope to play in Atlanta for the SEC title.

PHOTO CREDIT: SEC SPORTS MEDIA

No. 10 Georgia blacks out No. 18 Auburn, 45-20

ATHENS, Ga. (AP) -- Georgia coach Mark Richt came up with another motivational gimmick for Auburn, and this one worked just as well as the end zone celebration against Florida.

Of course, it didn't hurt having Matthew Stafford and Knowshon Moreno.

With the No. 10 Bulldogs donning black jerseys for the first time in the modern era, Stafford threw a pair of touchdown passes and Moreno broke 100 yards rushing for the fourth straight game, leading Georgia past 18th-ranked Auburn 45-20 Saturday.

The Bulldogs (8-2) remained on top of the Southeastern Conference East with a 5-2 mark, but they'll need a little help to reach the Dec. 1 championship game in nearby Atlanta. Tennessee has only two SEC losses, too, and holds the tiebreaker over Georgia.

Whatever the outcome in the league race, the Bulldogs will long savor this win over their longest-running rival. In the 111th meeting between the schools, Stafford threw a 58-yard TD pass to Mohamed Massaquoi and a 13-yarder to Sean Bailey. Moreno, a redshirt freshman, had another big game with scoring runs of 24 and 2 yards, finishing with 101 yards on 22 carries.

Thomas Brown finished off the Tigers (7-4, 4-3) with a 53-yard run to the Auburn 1 early in the fourth. Brannan Southerland powered over on the next play, and the celebration was on for the black-clad Bulldogs and all their fans wearing the same color.

Georgia scored the final 28 points against an Auburn defense that was leading the SEC and ranked fifth nationally in points allowed, just 14.5 per game. Georgia has eclipsed 40 points in three straight games, the first time that's happened since 1942.

Auburn rallied for the lead in the third quarter but couldn't overcome four interceptions by Brandon Cox.

Richt, who gave up the offensive play calling late last season, apparently has more time to sit around thinking up ways to fire up his players. Against Florida, he ordered his team to get a celebration penalty after their first TD, then watched the entire roster storm the end zone.

While Richt had to apologize to the SEC commissioner for his tactic, it sure seemed to work - Georgia rolled past the Gators 42-30, only their third win in that bitter series over the last 18 years.

Auburn had beaten Georgia in 12 of their last 15 meetings at Sanford Stadium, so Richt went looking for another motivational edge. He found it when the seniors put out the request for all fans to wear black, and the coach decided to have the players join the ``blackout.''

Richt spent most of the week dancing around the jersey issue, and the Bulldogs came out for warmups wearing their normal red home attire.

When the four captains walked out of the locker room still in red, there was a bit of a groan from the crowd. But it was all a ruse.

The rest of the team charged out through the main entrance wearing black jerseys, sending the 92,000 fans into a tizzy, the massive stadium rocking out to the AC/DC anthem ``Back in Black.''

Then it was time to take care of business on the field. Kelin Johnson snatched the first of his two interceptions on the very first play from scrimmage, setting up Brandon Coutu's 32-yard field goal and sparking Georgia to a 17-3 lead by early in the second quarter.

But the outcome was very much in doubt after Auburn, still smarting from a 37-15 loss to the Bulldogs a year ago, ripped off 17 straight points and took the lead on Wes Byrum's 33-yard field goal with just under 7 minutes left in the third quarter.

Georgia dominated the rest of the way, reclaiming the lead with two big plays. First, Stafford went deep down the right sideline for a 45-yard pass to Bailey. Then, Moreno ripped off a brilliant run, sprinting through a big hole over left tackle and, just when it looked like he would head for the corner, cut back to his right and left Auburn safety Zac Etheridge grasping at air. Moreno posed in the end zone with both hands on his hips, proud of his work.

When it was over, the Bulldogs sprinted toward the student section, dancing along with one more playing of ``Back in Black.''

Source: ncaafootball.com; Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media

No. 5 LSU escapes No. 18 Auburn on last-second TD

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) -- Matt Flynn threw a 22-yard touchdown pass to Demetrius Byrd with a second left to lift fifth-ranked LSU to a 30-24 victory over No. 18 Auburn on Saturday night, keeping LSU's national title hopes alive and well.

With South Florida losing earlier in the week, LSU is certain to move up to at least third in the BCS standings, behind only Ohio State and possibly Boston College, which was idle this weekend.

Flynn finished with 319 yards passing and three touchdowns

Auburn's Brandon Cox, taking hits in the pocket but rolling out effectively when necessary, turned in a gutty performance, passing for 199 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

His last scoring pass, a 3-yard touchdown strike to Rodgeriqus Smith, gave Auburn a 24-23 lead with 3:21 to go.

But Auburn, following a game-long pattern of keeping the ball away from LSU returner Trindon Holliday, squibbed the kickoff, giving LSU the ball on its 42.

Flynn scrambled for 19 yards during the final drive, then took one more shot at the end zone as the clock wound down instead of getting the ball in the middle of the field to set up a potential game-winning field goal. He floated pass perfectly to the back of the end zone, where Byrd emerged from behind a defender and made a sliding catch, sending Tiger Stadium into a frenzy.

LSU extended its winning streak in Death Valley to 18 games. If that streak had been snapped, it would have been fitting if Auburn was the team to do it. Auburn came in on a three-game winning streak that included impressive road wins over No. 14 Florida and Arkansas.

LSU's Jacob Hester gave LSU a 20-17 lead, diving for the pylon on early in the fourth quarter after catching a swing-pass on third-and-goal for the 5. He led a patient rushing attack that amassed 169 yards, all but 40 in the second half.

Auburn led 17-7 at halftime after getting touchdowns on Cox's 17-yard pass to Montez Billings and Carl Stewart's dive over the pile, which was set up by LSU backup quarterback Ryan Perrilloux's fumble.

Flynn led LSU back with help from his best receiver, Early Doucet, back from a groin injury that had caused him to miss most of the last five games. Doucet made several clutch catches, finishing with seven receptions for 93 yards.

Source: ncaafootball; Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media