News of the day, 8/11

Hey everyone. Auburn held a 120-play scrimmage at Jordan-Hare this morning. The press wasn't allowed in, so all information below was gleaned from people who were there.

Auburn received some bad injury news on Saturday. DT Tez Doolittle, the team's most valuable defensive line reserve and a fifth-year senior, will miss the season with a torn Achilles tendon. Just an awful situation for Tez, who had completely revitalized his career of late after a difficult start during the early days.

TB Tristan Davis is out at least six weeks after breaking a toe. He underwent surgery this morning to insert a pin into the toe. That means Auburn is down to three tailbacks (Carl Stewart and Davis now are out), which is an interesting development. Sounds like Mario Fannin will take over for Davis on kickoff returns.

QB Neil Caudle injured his throwing shoulder during the scrimmage today. Reports vary on how it happened. Coach Tommy Tuberville said he didn't think it was a particularly serious situation. Of course, he said that about Tez yesterday.

UPDATE: Tuberville said: ``It's one of those deals that's going to knock him way behind." That doesn't sound good.

QB Kodi Burns, a true freshman, dazzled observers at the scrimmage. He apparently showed unusual speed and arm strength. More important, he approached difficult situations calmly and made plays. I think he has a real shot at emerging as the No. 2 guy if Caudle's injury is serious. The coaching staff, Tuberville in particular, is intrigued by Burns' skill set.

Auburn initially chose to take Sunday off, but now will practice beginning at 7 p.m. I'm not a coach and don't pretend to be one. I'll just say that I'm surprised at how rigorous the team's practice schedule has been. Brandon Cox said today that he looked in the eyes of his linemen today and saw a lot of tired faces.

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Today's Montgomery-to-Auburn gas prices:
in Montgomery: Raceway (East Blvd.) is $2.66/gal.
in Auburn: Spectrum (Shug Jordan Pkwy. & Wire) is $2.55/gal.