I wonder if all the non-consistancy goes back to discipline. What exactly were they doing during all these practices? They don't sound too down and know it's up to them since the coaches don't seem to be able to get it together. I will go to the game this w/e to support them. Is anyone else going?
Where would you be without Wife? I hate to even think. Love the "magic tricks" comment. I love DC so much and I miss the frequent trips I used to make. Greg and I finally visited together and yeah, we enjoyed the same thing. It's a good vibe.
Maybe Mr. Bosley isn't up on current events, but they got their butts kicked saturday any time they tried to run in a short yardage situation. The line is suppose to move forward, not backward. Could this simply be an issue with sense of directions?
I think the consistency problem is lack of student leadership not necessarily discipline. There doesn't seems to be "that guy" consistently pushing others to do their best and helping these kids believe in themselves.
Coaches really can only do so much. I can tell my kids they are smart and funny and great at a particular thing all day long. They hear it and maybe believe it most if the time, BUT if a friend of theirs tells them those things...they are on top of the world and ready to conquer it.
Kristina I totally agree...that's what I think Tebow brings to the gators Monica, military caused us to live there and my son was actually born in DC. very international city but still small
They asked him if he could describe walking in and seeing all these friends and players. He responded with "that's what we are about" and started to break down. So they applauded.
Tommy Trott is the only one that I can say that I've seen who has tried to step up and be "that guy" however due to absolute lack of coaching at the WR and TE positions his play hasn't dictated that he be the leader out on the field.
I think that this season has taken its toll on Bosley and the rest of the seniors. He didn't look very upbeat to me. I can tell on Saturdays that they are trying, but dealing with repeated defeat has to make a player weary. It has made me weary and as Coach Tuberville pointed out, I don't have nearly as much invested.
If someone would loan me a helmet, I'd be happy to go down on the sidelines and crack some skulls before the game starts just to get these guys amped. I give a heck of a motivational speech and I can slow-clap with the best of 'em!
Those same decisions, that will probably have a lot of these same players adjusting to a completely different approach this spring and summer to get ready for next year.
My assessment of the offensive line is that the players haven't changed much from last year to this year in name or performance. I think that would lend itself to motivation/coaching or something other than the players. Equal players should yield equal or better results.
I was gonna say I prefer a 6:45 kick since our seats face west, but I forgot we have mini-season tickets that are really full season tickets minus the UGA game.
I still like night games though. I want to enjoy the entire day before the probable disappointing outcome.
Jay, I have not doubt the effort is there, but to describe this offense as physical just isn't true. We have a second and 2 at one point. I prayed they didn't attempt to run. I think we lost a couple of yards on the run. That isn't physical football. It wasn't the runningback. The line moved backwards instead of forwards.
I agree that the managerial decisions have been poor. If offensive performance was the only reason Franklin was given the opportunity to find other employment, it was a mistake. We have gotten worse. I do think there may have been more to it, such as conflicts with other coaches that made the decision necessary. If that is the case, I understand.
As for Fulmers fairwell press conference, couldn't they have just played a video of someone kicking a puppy? It would have been less disturbing.
I wonder if what we really need is a Pat Dye scrimmage. When Pat Dye arrived at Auburn many players quit. A guy named Sam Dejarnette, who was a good runningback, bolted for Southern Miss. The players beat the crap out of each other. Those that survived played.
Jay a question for you about the defense. All the talk all year has been about the offense but defense has some problems also. my question is do we line up the same every play. What I mean is do we give offense different looks? From watching on T.V. we seem to be in same defense time after time. What do you think.
Thank you for your thoughts on that Jay. I don't comment much but read often, probably too often. I can't wait to look forward into the '09 team. Things will be different for both in-state teams.
Playing sound on defense is good but with athletes in the sec you have to out scheme some times. If they know what you are going to do every time you better be better than sound.
I think the biggest thing that has effected our running game is our predictability from our formations. If we are in the shotgun we throw it 90% of the time and if we are in the I we run it 99% of the time. It's hard to do something positive in the running game when they have a really good idea of what you are doing.
Re: Paul Rhoads not switching up the the defensive looks. That was the biggest knock on him from pittsburgh fans. It means you have to have playmakers in the front seven and right now coleman is the only one out there playing with a sense of violence.
ron mexico: you are right about coleman being the only playmaker right now. Do you think rhoads style will work in sec or do you think he will forced to adjust his style.
I have a hard time seeing how his defense will consistently stop the run next year with coleman and marks gone. Tray Blackmon helps, but i don't think that much. Goggans and Stephens on the strongside don't do a whole lot in the playmaking department.
Anyone see the play Philip Lutzenkirchen (TE commit from Georgia) made in his game Fri. night? If I was worth a crap on a cpu I would post the link. Oh well, it was just like Karlos Dansby's tip drill INT, only it was made by a tight end in the end zone for I believe the winning score. Unfortunately the ESPN guys left out the name of the team he is committed to....anyone else would have got that plug. Point is, this recruiting class is sooooo critical to the future success (or failure) of Auburn Football and there is nothing worse for recruiting than coaching turmoil. If this institution intends on keeping our coach, they need to come out and do so now and lay the rumors to rest (and hope Tubbs doesn't take another job anyway). There is a lot of animosity from both sides stemming from 2003; one reason Tubbs has been stickin to them (and us) ever since with each head coaching job that comes up. If Tubbs is committed to Auburn as he says, and the University decides they are committed to him the two parties need to sit down and work out this crap and do what is best for Auburn and most importantly those players. If these childlike power plays between overgrown kids can't be fixed then keeping him will do no good. I know it's a pipe dream to think that Tubberville's and the Lowder's can let bigones be bigones, but the last time I checked Colonial Bank stock and Tommy's good will were sharing space in the crapper....after all, the freakin consumer drives all economies and I for one aint buyin what they're sellin right now.
Two years in a row that he's been beaten on the last play of the game. Fifth game this year the opponent has had 400 plus yards. I don't know. The numbers don't lie.
Too bad about Phil. His downfall started when he started getting #1 recruiting classes featuring thugs and head cases from all over the USA. This all lead to the advent of the Fulmer Cup. Cutcliffe went to OM and any modicum of discipline went with him. UT never regained any character.
AU will always have disfunctional HC/PTB relationships as long as we continue to rely on that ol' big money to buy us or bail us out. A new coach will really empower the PTB exert control similar to the pre-Jetgate years.
It seems that the "what have you done for me lately" attitude becoming prevalent in CFB is starting to stink just like Pro Sports. Fans with that attitude just kill the charm and spirit of CFB for me. I quit pro sports years ago and am much better for it.
I dont know about you guys but I heard some people today badmouthing Fulmer as a pretty good coach but I think they really underestimated the importance of Phil Fulmer. He turned that entire program around when he was able to bring in Peyton Manning, UT basically went national. Just because that didn’t win the national championship with Peyton Manning, who cares, they weren't the better TEAM versus Florida in 95 and 96 and sure as hell wasn’t better than Nebraska in 97. 2 SEC titles and 1 National is pretty damn good when you have to go up against UF, UGA, Bama, Auburn and LSU, whose fan bases think their team is supposed to win the conference every other year. This is coming from an Auburn Grad and Fan. The one thing I liked about PF today is that you can tell he really loves UT, sometimes I wonder if CTT even likes Auburn.
Texas played 4 top ten teams in a row. It is completely understandable that those student-athletes would have a tuff time winning that stretch of games. I still think that Texas is the best team in CFB.
Most knowledgeble football folks predicted UGA to lose 1 or 2 regular season games. UGA was the preseason best team on paper with the tuffest schedule on paper. UGA folks shouldn't be "upset" with 2 losses... disappointed ..sure.
I'm not convinced that Fla is tuff enough on the OL/DL. Bama is not sexy, but if they beat LSU, they have the starters to punch Fla in the throat and win.
Fulmer didn't have the dysfunctional AU PTB to deal with. CTT has handled that situation much better than I would have. CTT loves much about AU..and he has defended the program against the PTB for a long time.
AU now has a lot of nasty fans, I wouldn't blame him if he wanted to get away from a fan base that analyzes and makes fun of his every word and facial expression at press conferences.
Fulmer was a good coach, but just not a next level coach. He did have his one really good year, but he just wasn't a dominant coach that could strike fear in the teams going against him on a consistent basis. I think him press conference today was emotional because of the amount of time he has spent at Tennesse, either as player, coach or head ooach. I'll miss the great pumpkin. Johny Majors on the other hand, his probably doing a victory dance. He despises Fulmer.
still kinda just down Hotties...I know it's not right but I just kinda.. I don't know how to explain it. I'll be back the closer it gets to game time...WAR EAGLE
I really think we need to just relax and give Tuberville another season to work the kinks out. I will be very disappointed if we are not in the spread next season because I think it is the best thing going offensively these days. I can see Tuberville going to something else depending upon the coordinator he hires.
Steve- I think were on to bigger things than kinks. I think we have a fishing line that is so tangled it take a long time to get straightened out or you can just cut it loose.
Fulmer got to the top, picked the wrong type of recruits and never recovered. UT gave him time to recover, but it didn't happen.
I'm not sure of any coach that strikes "fear". All CFB teams lost at least 2 games last year...So just what is the next level? I don't get it. Is it USC beating up on the pansies in the PAC 10 and still losing 2 games? Is it Ok losing most all BCS bowl games? The standard seems change with each disgruntled person. AU lost 4 games, so I'm sure that is not considered an acceptable level, but I guess if LSU andn't got lucky on that pass and we didn't muff up USF and Miss St., the UGA debacle alone would have been enough to keep us away from the next level.
Whom do you have in mind to take over for Tuberville?
I think Chris Petersen is a pretty bad man. Butch Davis has skills. They could be upgrades over Tuberville.
I mean, it's pointless for Auburn to make a move unless they have identified someone gettable who represents an obvious upgrade over Tuberville. There aren't many people who qualify on both counts.
hoopie, I think you nailed what I was thinking, and that is getting embarrased at least once a year. You have to be able to tolerate losses, they happen. Very rarely do you have the perfect storm. The key is to not look so bad that you knock yourself out of the NC picture. We have only really ever been a NC player in November once, and of course that was 2004.
I'm thinking we stick with the Arkansas connection.
Nutt, Malzahn, or Petrino, please. Oh, wait, those are all terrible ideas.
What about that liar at UCF. He used to be top notch, but a simple resume typo sent him to the little leagues, where he's recruited pretty decent. I think its time the big boys give him a second chance.
What is the common thread between 1993 and 1997? They lost to Florida every year. I know all about Fulmer. Grew up in Chattanooga with all the die hard Big Orange fans. Like I said, other than 1998, he always managed to lose a game that he shouldn't. Winning percentage is fine, but I'm telling you, the Tennessee fans have wanted him gone for a while now. Most were not very happy with his contract extension last year, even after the SEC Game appearance.
No wonder the Vol fans are po'd Look at all the 10+ win seasons. Their next coach better be the second coming or else they'll have him fired in a couple years,
dang, I finally find Monday Night Football streaming on the internet (Justin.Tv), and my virus checker almost immediately freaks out and starts giving me messages about a known virus trying to access file directories. Oh, well.
Well they got what they wanted, we will see what happens, I mean I agree it was time, but appreciate what the Man did.....is it me, or are all SEC football fans miserable about 95% of the time?
Jay, I post this question. Do you feel Tuberville still has the same drive that he has had in the past? It sure doesn't seem to be that way, and I mean even before the season he looked down. IMO, this is not the same Tuberville that wa there just a few years ago. Am i the only one that believes that. I would take a fired up Tubs over most, but it just doesn't seem like that his him these days.
Coaches that would come to Auburn and be an upgrade over Today Tubs:
Chris Peterson Butch Davis- too much talk to not be interest. Mike Leach I'll throw the X-Factor, Muschamp.
Eddie, I like your choices, but other than money, what would bring them to Auburn from where they are now? And is AU going to shell out what it might take to get them here?
Scottatl- When does a trend start? Fulmer has had 4+ losses the last 4 years and was very lucky to win 10 games last year. His record could have easily had 3 more losses. The ball bounced their way just about every time last year except the SEC Championship game.
I don't think most SEC Fans are miserable 95% of the time. Personally, i'm dissappointed in the way the season has turned out, but in no way have I let it ruin my personal life.
Another thing to keep in mind about Fulmer is that he always finished strong, and he should have. His November schedule was usually S. Carolina, Kentucky, & Vandy, with homecoming thrown in for good measure.
That stretch saved his bacon on more than one occasion.
MrTommy- Lets see. Money as you noted will always be a huge factor. Just remember, this is a business, and most everyone is looking for a raise. Also, Auburn will more than likely have to sell out to the new coach like bama did to Saban. There will probably be a lot of guarenteed money.
Peterson- Boise State to Auburn would be a huge jump for Peterson. He would more than likely jump at the chance provided Tennesse doesn't get him.
Leach- I think the challenge of the SEC would lure him plus it would be a lot easier for him to be successful than it is for him now at Texas Tech.
Butch Davis- Other than a challenge, which I believe most coaches like because their egos are never in check, that is about the best selling point for him.
Muschamp- Would probably craw back to Auburn from Austin.
All I will say is this...Let's be careful for what we wish for. My VP was just let go from work. Alot of people were super excited...now all of a sudden, people are becoming nervous on who might take his spot.
I see your point eddie, but I wonder if they all have the ego to work through at least one rebuilding year here, when they can be pretty certain their own programs will be rather successful. I hope Tuberville stays, personally (however I don't feel the same about his asst's), but if he does leave I think it'd be a coup to get one of these coaches.
Yeah he's an NFL guy and other than $$$ he probably wouldn't have a lot of motivation to get into the college game, much less Auburn. BUT, if you want to try and hit a home run you have to swing for the fences. If a change is made the powers that be should take a serious run at the guy.
By the way, Jay, thank you for having this blog. It's so much nicer having a place to actually talk auburn football than trying to work your way through all the flaming like you do on the al.com forum.
MrTommyd- If there is anything to be certain of, it is that coaches have huge egos. ALL OF THEM. Trust me, I've been around enough to know. You have to have egos. First off, if Auburn is deemed a "rebuilding" job right now, then I definitely believe Tommy would need to be gone. I don't see that as the case. I believe there is a sold base of players at Auburn. Maybe not all-american type, but there is much more talent than what was here in 98 when Tubs took over. I believe that would be enough to lure a coach here. If that coach wins quickly, which is something that has been proven with the last two coaches, Bowden 93 and Tuberville 2000, then he can hit the floor running. Just look at what Saban has done in 2 years.
James- I would be leary of a coach that didn't want to coach anymore. Cowher chose to step down at Pittsburgh and I don't think he has the desire to do it right now. I believe Auburn needs someone who is hungry. Granted, Cowher is a great coach, I just don't know that he really wants to coach.
Tigerfan44- Not all offenses are worse than the previous offense. I think Auburn Fans can accept change, but you have to at least take baby steps forward. This offense only got worse as the year went on.
Granted we have players, very true. But a third offensive scheme in 3 years? Like I said I hope Tuberville stays, but if not, and you're right about the ego thing, maybe one of those on your list would jump at the chance. Speaking of players, is it just bad luck, or a conditioning problem that would account for all of the injuries this team has had to endure the last few years?
I like the Petersen choice. However, I still hope Tubbs stays and cleans house to the offensive side, bring in Malzahn and find some other coaches that are hungry and ready to take on a challenge.
It will be interesting to see if any team picks up the assistants if they are not retained. notice Borges hasnot been hired by anyone. I know he is still getting paid but Ihave only heard his name mentioned for the Opelika High job, which I believe he takes.
mrtommyd- I believe it is bad luck. I would put our conditioning next to any schools conditioning. Yox is one of the best in the Biz. I really believe it is terrible luck.
wootangclan- I don't think Malzahn would come. I don't think any major OC would come into this situation. I would like to believe that to be the case, but I don't.
Borges- I think most thought, including Jay, that Borges was going to be at MSU like now. Most believe he will be there next year.
Just heard about the Opelika job this week from someone (I know, rumors, rumors,rumors) who gave me that info form over there. his wife still has a job at AU and AU still likes her in that job. If she is leaving it will be news to the athletic department.
I wonder if Tennessee making a move today will embolden Auburn to do the same. Or would it be seen as being like a copy cat. I mean against TN I saw two evenly matched teams, in a bad way, play against each other. If we played them 10 times this year it would be 5 and 5.
I don't Auburn is in a rebuilding mode. I think between making poor decisions in hiring CTF and not giving him the ability to bring in who he needed to, counting on a damaged QB to beat the overwhelming odds to get better, and a multitude of injuries....well here we are.
The offensive assistant coaches not rowing the same way caused Hugh Nall lots of anguish in 03. Led to downfall of Borges and CTF. That means that the HC was not doing what he needed to on offense.
I think Burns will develop. Unfortunately for Chris Todd, unless some new surgical technique is figured out, I think he needs to work on his class work and prepare for life after football.
What do you think about the fact that Franklin and Leach were students of Hal Mumme? And the fact that though he is brilliant, he's a bit of a nutburger...
Cowher - I wanted him the day he retired, but I've been laughed out of many virtual rooms for saying so. I'm ready for it.
Agreed Denny Crum. I believe that Auburn will make a decision after or if they can get the next guy lined up. It has been the history of Auburn. They usually on make a move if they have the "known" secured. I believe that is a good way to go about it, unless you get caught like they did in 2003. Anyone ever think about where we would be if Petrino was the coach? I bet he wouldn't be at Auburn right now.
Anybody care to guess why the OC at UA didn't bring anyone with him? Was he brought in to run the current system or establish his own? I see why TF needed to bring someone in that ran his offense since no one on the staff can run it, but how many coaches should he have brought in. Do other OC bring in their own assistants or is it just because AU is changing offenses that he would need to bring in his own guy(s)? Just wondering?
Monica- I named Leach simply because the man can flat out coach offense. I see him as a Spurrier type coach. Bob Stoops hired him as the first OC at Oklahoma because he was the one guy that absolutely gave Stoops fits while he was the DC at Florida. I believe that Leach could get a good DC at Auburn and he could be a force in the SEC.
Your right RK, he died in 2006. I thought they said he was there for the ceremony. Well, if we are going for dead coaches, lets dig up bear and put him on our sidelines with an orange and blue houndstouth cap. That would set the other side on fire.
I'm not sure that it was no one could run TF's offense, as so much that he never talked to anyone enough to share with them what the heck kind of offense he was trying to run. Why the heck am I still talking about the TF experiment. If I forget it happened the heartache just might go away.
Speaking of which, did you know that in the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy originally had silver slippers. It was changed in the movie to hide the fact that the whole story was a populists political parable about the election of 1900 and the proposed bimetalic standard.
I might need to go to bed now. I think TT, Kodi Burns and his courageous WR crew, the TF experiment, and the future of Auburn football is driving me a little nutty.
If Petersen came, since he has those Orange shirts, do you think we could get a blue turf field? Boise is 35-3 at home last time I checked about 2 weeks ago.
See Monica, that is the kinda of thinking that works in this economy. Speaking of economy, what is the financial impact of Tuberville being the coach next year or someone else?
Did you know that they have birds that die because they believe that field is a pond. They dive down full force into the ground. That was a useless fact I thought I would share.
I say we get my good friend College Hall of Fame Coach and two time nationaly champion Roy Kidd to come out of retirement to take the job. We could run the option and the power I. Come to think of it, Georgia Tech seems to be doing just that. Hmmmmmmm........
John Vaught would be another excellent choice.
Howard Schnellenberger or Johnny Majors would be good too, but I doubt we could keep them in bourbon enough.
Since they were counting on a miracle to happen for Chris Todd to get better. Maybe we could conjure up a spell to get Paul Brown to rise from the dead and coach. I didn't mention any others because Paul Brown is my favorite dead coach.
All kidding aside, Schnellenberger has always seemed like he has about 1000 times the fire that CTT has right now.
And again,,,I think the best coach next year for Auburn would be Tommy Tuberville.
My vote's for Vince Lombardi. Or Tom Landry. WAIT! John Wooden! Yes. With Michael Jordan as OC!
Seriously though. How many of these predictions/hopes for new HCs are even going to be close? I am still holding firm that he stays one more season. And if that happens, it's because he chose to cut the BBQ boys loose and reload on offense.
Yes, WJB vs McKinnley in the 1900 election, as outlined by Baum in the Wizard of Oz. Bryan, I think, was the Lion in the story.
If we're pulling up dead coaches, i think Auburn has a few that earned even more mythical national championships than what is being awarded today. Perhaps we can give them a second shot at credibility.
Jay is awful quiet tonight. I think he feels we are on to something. I think some posters are just on something, but who am I to say.
I think Petersen is the man though, if Tubbs is out.
Do you think the new video this week a the the intro will be the Burns-Slaughter pass play. That was our only highlight, I think. Maybe it will be a clip of the ref measuring for a 1st down and we got it.
People seem generally pleased with the change from Todd to Burns as the starting quarterback, but since we switched to Burns and simplified the offense, we haven't won a game and our stats are down. Seems like a bit of that ironic irony I have heard so much about.
Steve- I believe if Todd's arm was healthy, he would still be the QB right now. THough I don't believe the running game would be much better, but who knows.
We had 394 yds of offense, that not too bad. Why in the world did we only have 7 points? Oh, btw, I've taken myself off actually watching the games for heart stoppage reasons.
The question I have for the people wanting CTT back-under what conditions will he be back? I hear total offensive staff overhaul but what GOOD OC comes for maybe a 1-year gig for a lame duck head coach that has ran off OC's left and right? And are recruits going to come if they think Tubs is just holding on for 1 more year? And I say lame duck head coach because we all know if next year in any way resembles this year he is gone. Add in a killer road schedule, another new OC, Marks being gone, Jay seems to think AC will be gone as well does anyone see hope for next year? Maybe I am just too pessimistic but I think the program needs a jolt of new blood and another new OC is not going to do it.
eddie4au, I think you are right. Actually, I think if Todd's arm was as healthy as it was at the beginning of the season he would still be the starter. But against Vandy he just looked horrible. It was clear his arm had done all it could do.
Most UT fans were really happy almost celebrating, until they saw the human element during the press conference and then they started getting reflective and thankful for all Fulmer had done.
However, they are pretty excited for the future.
The Bama fans around here are probably the happiest of all.
I think Autozone had a giveaway this year of free wiper fluid if AU scored over 24 points in a game at home. You had to bring your stub. Boy did they come out a winner this year on not having to give much away. At least they got the advertising but no feet in the door for extra shopping.
There has been this idea out there for a while that no good OC would come to AU. I just don't get that. If I'm a top notch OC, why not come here? I've likely got an ego the size of texas and I likely figure I can fix this mess. I'll make of TON of money doing so, and if I have any success, I can pretty much name the HC position I want. I just think most of those (OC) guys, if they believe in themselves at all, would jump at the opportunity AU offers. I know all the arguments about treatment of previous OC's etc., but I bet most would think "it won't happen to me" because I'll win. That's just my opinion, but I think the idea no one would come here is flawed.
RK- Most of the georgia fans around me claimed they were screwed. They may be down this week, but don't let that fool you. They will be in Auburn in force this year, especially knowing it is a face value ticket game at most.
As someone who is very close to a lot of UGA fans, I can definitely see close to 20k of them there. Seems like everyone I know is going, despite the UF debaucle. They need something to make them feel good about themselves, and I think Auburn just might be able to help.
What's really hard to grip is how close this team is to being 7-1.
Maybe 1 first down against LSU. Different 4 down play calling on 1st goal against Vandy. Longer pass to Hawthorne against ARK. No int against Ole Miss.
I think that would have only prolonged the changes we are going to see.
I know they will be in full force, but I don't see 20K. I don't see that many Auburn fans giving up their ticket for the UGA game, no matter how bad we have played this year.
Maybe I'm just out of touch.
Yeah, I've heard the UGA fans complain about the refs last weekend, but the refs didn't give up near 50 points to their main rival.
autiger- I believe they would come if they think they could turn it around in year 1. If they don't turn it around in year 1, do they believe Tubs sees year 2 of their tenure? I may be wrong, but I think the unsure footing of Tubs if he were to survive severly impacts his choices as OC. Do you see enough talent out there on offense right now to believe that it could be a lot better next year? That would be the question to answer for someone looking at the OC position.
I think a name OC would come to AU. If Tubbs is out in one year so be it. If the OC is any good, then he has just had a chance to audition for a good HC gig.
Eddie- not sure we should go with the blue field if it causes birds(eagles) to fly head first into it. Might make for a tragic scene on gameday. As far as the coaching situation not sure about the HC but definayely need to get some new asst's on offense. Jay, thanks for the add to notable newcomers.
RK- I know 4 different close friends with a pair of season tickets, and I am the only one planning on going out of all those. I'm telling you, alot of Auburn people are unloading their Georgia tickets.
Oh I agree we could also be a lot worse, but I would like to think we are better than we are playing. Just being positive.
That ball bounces in funny directions and we have just been on the wrong end. I have used the comparison of last years UA team. They were better than the record. I liked it when they got beat, but almost everything that could go wrong did. If were everything they would have lost all their games, which would have been fine by me.
I do think there is talent there. Sometimes it just takes the right person with the right approach to put it correctly to use. Example: Dye leaves after a 5 adn 6 season, Bowden comes in and runs off a string of what was it, 20 straight wins. I think for the top tier SEC teams (us, UA, LSU, TN, FL, GA) there is always talent there, it's just a matter of putting the players in a position to succeed.
rk- i agree. wins over UT and MSU were close and could have gone the other way. REALLY close to 2-7.
Another great Vid, Jay.
ReplyDeleteSo Kodi has been lacking confidence in himself, his teammates or both?
I wonder if all the non-consistancy goes back to discipline. What exactly were they doing during all these practices? They don't sound too down and know it's up to them since the coaches don't seem to be able to get it together. I will go to the game this w/e to support them. Is anyone else going?
ReplyDeleteWord is that he gets very down on himself after mistakes.
ReplyDeleteSo I'd go with a., lacking confidence in himself.
FYI ... the shot of Abe Lincoln is courtesy of Wifey, who snapped that while we toured D.C earlier this year.
ReplyDeleteI loved hanging out there at the Lincoln Memorial. Lots of people from lots of places all talking about the same thing. Pretty good.
Minor issue: My daughter saw a group of Moroccans doing a traditional dance ... and she asked me of they were doing "magic tricks."
Where would you be without Wife? I hate to even think. Love the "magic tricks" comment. I love DC so much and I miss the frequent trips I used to make. Greg and I finally visited together and yeah, we enjoyed the same thing. It's a good vibe.
ReplyDeleteI have lived in DC twice and it is a great city!
ReplyDeleteMaybe Mr. Bosley isn't up on current events, but they got their butts kicked saturday any time they tried to run in a short yardage situation. The line is suppose to move forward, not backward. Could this simply be an issue with sense of directions?
ReplyDeleteI don't care who you are. You can't listen to Fulmer right now and not feel for the man.
ReplyDeleteWatching the Fulmer press conference right now...does anyone think a possible Tuberville press conference would be this emotional?
ReplyDeleteWEG! I'm jealous. If it weren't for the crime and cost of living I think I could have talked Greg into moving. I had a couple of job offers...
ReplyDeleteI think the consistency problem is lack of student leadership not necessarily discipline. There doesn't seems to be "that guy" consistently pushing others to do their best and helping these kids believe in themselves.
ReplyDeleteCoaches really can only do so much. I can tell my kids they are smart and funny and great at a particular thing all day long. They hear it and maybe believe it most if the time, BUT if a friend of theirs tells them those things...they are on top of the world and ready to conquer it.
Does Auburn have that?
Yes, I do think Tuberville has enjoyed his time at Auburn, but I am sure leaving these trustees won't make him cry
ReplyDeleteWhat did Fulmer say that they all applauded? I couldn't hear it.
ReplyDeleteI think Jason was passing the buck back to the coaches regarding the run problems. Turn around is fair play and all that ;-)
ReplyDeleteKristina I totally agree...that's what I think Tebow brings to the gators
ReplyDeleteMonica, military caused us to live there and my son was actually born in DC. very international city but still small
They asked him if he could describe walking in and seeing all these friends and players. He responded with "that's what we are about" and started to break down. So they applauded.
ReplyDeleteThanks, RK.
ReplyDeleteTommy Trott is the only one that I can say that I've seen who has tried to step up and be "that guy" however due to absolute lack of coaching at the WR and TE positions his play hasn't dictated that he be the leader out on the field.
ReplyDeleteWho knows who is "that guy" on our offense...because we have nobody that makes plays that scares the opposition.
ReplyDeleteSteve, that's a pretty brutal assessment.
ReplyDeleteI don't think effort is to blame here. They were working hard at Ole Miss -- harder, in my opinion, than they worked at West Virginia.
Bad team? Yep. Bad effort? I haven't seen it.
I think that this season has taken its toll on Bosley and the rest of the seniors. He didn't look very upbeat to me. I can tell on Saturdays that they are trying, but dealing with repeated defeat has to make a player weary. It has made me weary and as Coach Tuberville pointed out, I don't have nearly as much invested.
ReplyDeleteheaded home from work....talk to ya'll later!
ReplyDeleteThe losing definitely takes a toll. I see a team trying to fight through a mess created mostly by poor managerial decisions.
ReplyDeleteEffort or not, the guys up front are simply being pushed around in their one on one matchups. It's not always the extra guy coming in clean.
ReplyDeleteIf someone would loan me a helmet, I'd be happy to go down on the sidelines and crack some skulls before the game starts just to get these guys amped. I give a heck of a motivational speech and I can slow-clap with the best of 'em!
ReplyDeleteThose same decisions, that will probably have a lot of these same players adjusting to a completely different approach this spring and summer to get ready for next year.
ReplyDeleteBlah, I just got back from al.com trying to see who picked up the UGA game. I must now go take a shower.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you have fostered the environment here that you have, Jay.
My assessment of the offensive line is that the players haven't changed much from last year to this year in name or performance. I think that would lend itself to motivation/coaching or something other than the players. Equal players should yield equal or better results.
ReplyDeleteUGA is still TBA.
ReplyDeleteI'd like to see a 2:30 kick myself. I'll make a few calls in an effort to influence the decision.
What other games are that weekend? Seems hard to believe we would be the CBS game. Maybe ESPN2 or RaycomPilotJeffersonLincolnFinancial
ReplyDeleteMississippi State at Alabama
ReplyDeleteGeorgia at Auburn
South Carolina at Florida
Vanderbilt at Kentucky
Troy at LSU
Louisiana-Monroe at Ole Miss
OPEN: Arkansas, Tennessee
Now you see their predicament.
ReplyDeleteYou get on that Jay...
ReplyDeleteI was gonna say I prefer a 6:45 kick since our seats face west, but I forgot we have mini-season tickets that are really full season tickets minus the UGA game.
I still like night games though. I want to enjoy the entire day before the probable disappointing outcome.
Wow. Maybe CBS should just show Everybody Loves Raymond reruns.
ReplyDeleteJay, I have not doubt the effort is there, but to describe this offense as physical just isn't true. We have a second and 2 at one point. I prayed they didn't attempt to run. I think we lost a couple of yards on the run. That isn't physical football. It wasn't the runningback. The line moved backwards instead of forwards.
ReplyDeleteI agree that the managerial decisions have been poor. If offensive performance was the only reason Franklin was given the opportunity to find other employment, it was a mistake. We have gotten worse. I do think there may have been more to it, such as conflicts with other coaches that made the decision necessary. If that is the case, I understand.
As for Fulmers fairwell press conference, couldn't they have just played a video of someone kicking a puppy? It would have been less disturbing.
People love watching other people wither. It's a fact.
ReplyDeleteIs it just me, or does it seem like LSU has played Troy now about 10 times this season?
ReplyDeleteI wonder if what we really need is a Pat Dye scrimmage. When Pat Dye arrived at Auburn many players quit. A guy named Sam Dejarnette, who was a good runningback, bolted for Southern Miss. The players beat the crap out of each other. Those that survived played.
ReplyDeleteSo funny , we are a finesse team.
ReplyDeleteDye lost a game AU didn't play very tough in. He got pretty upset and the next game they only threw like three times.
Jay,
ReplyDeleteWhat are your thoughts on Marks and Coleman leaving after this year for the draft? It looks like Marks is a projected first rounder.
I'm very interested to see how the powers that be at Auburn react to UT firing Fulmer.
ReplyDeleteIf they are planning on firing Tub, they now know there is some serious competition for any coach they might be interested in.
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ReplyDeleteJay a question for you about the defense. All the talk all year has been about the offense but defense has some problems also. my question is do we line up the same every play. What I mean is do we give offense different looks? From watching on T.V. we seem to be in same defense time after time. What do you think.
ReplyDeleteI think Marks will leave because he'll be a first-round guy.
ReplyDeleteI think Coleman will leave because he's coveted (less than Marks, though) and he really hates losing.
As for the defense -- Paul Rhoads emphasizes technique and timing. He doesn't alter fronts like Will Muschamp.
Will was all about confusing the offense. Rhoads is about being sound all the time.
Thank you for your thoughts on that Jay. I don't comment much but read often, probably too often. I can't wait to look forward into the '09 team. Things will be different for both in-state teams.
ReplyDeleteWhat's the word on Rod Smith?
ReplyDeletePlaying sound on defense is good but with athletes in the sec you have to out scheme some times. If they know what you are going to do every time you better be better than sound.
ReplyDeleteI think the biggest thing that has effected our running game is our predictability from our formations. If we are in the shotgun we throw it 90% of the time and if we are in the I we run it 99% of the time. It's hard to do something positive in the running game when they have a really good idea of what you are doing.
ReplyDeleteRe: Paul Rhoads not switching up the the defensive looks. That was the biggest knock on him from pittsburgh fans. It means you have to have playmakers in the front seven and right now coleman is the only one out there playing with a sense of violence.
ReplyDeleteron mexico: you are right about coleman being the only playmaker right now. Do you think rhoads style will work in sec or do you think he will forced to adjust his style.
ReplyDeleteI have a hard time seeing how his defense will consistently stop the run next year with coleman and marks gone. Tray Blackmon helps, but i don't think that much. Goggans and Stephens on the strongside don't do a whole lot in the playmaking department.
ReplyDeleteAny style works if you are better than your opponent. Also, Will's style didn't work so well Saturday night.
ReplyDeleteI, Phred, am announcing that I am placing myself on injured reserve. I've just run out of things to talk about.
I'll pipe in when I feel better.
Plus, I am going to be out on the road recruiting for the G man.
Anyone see the play Philip Lutzenkirchen (TE commit from Georgia) made in his game Fri. night? If I was worth a crap on a cpu I would post the link. Oh well, it was just like Karlos Dansby's tip drill INT, only it was made by a tight end in the end zone for I believe the winning score. Unfortunately the ESPN guys left out the name of the team he is committed to....anyone else would have got that plug. Point is, this recruiting class is sooooo critical to the future success (or failure) of Auburn Football and there is nothing worse for recruiting than coaching turmoil. If this institution intends on keeping our coach, they need to come out and do so now and lay the rumors to rest (and hope Tubbs doesn't take another job anyway). There is a lot of animosity from both sides stemming from 2003; one reason Tubbs has been stickin to them (and us) ever since with each head coaching job that comes up. If Tubbs is committed to Auburn as he says, and the University decides they are committed to him the two parties need to sit down and work out this crap and do what is best for Auburn and most importantly those players. If these childlike power plays between overgrown kids can't be fixed then keeping him will do no good. I know it's a pipe dream to think that Tubberville's and the Lowder's can let bigones be bigones, but the last time I checked Colonial Bank stock and Tommy's good will were sharing space in the crapper....after all, the freakin consumer drives all economies and I for one aint buyin what they're sellin right now.
ReplyDeleteRod Smith: Hip pointer. I think he's out until Alabama.
ReplyDeleteWill's D worked at Auburn most of the time...that is until the ball was in the air on a deep pass, then the DB's had no clue.
ReplyDeleteOf course that could have been becasue they never practiced against a QB who would test them deep.
Two years in a row that he's been beaten on the last play of the game. Fifth game this year the opponent has had 400 plus yards. I don't know. The numbers don't lie.
ReplyDeleteToo bad about Phil. His downfall started when he started getting #1 recruiting classes featuring thugs and head cases from all over the USA. This all lead to the advent of the Fulmer Cup. Cutcliffe went to OM and any modicum of discipline went with him. UT never regained any character.
ReplyDeleteAU will always have disfunctional HC/PTB relationships as long as we continue to rely on that ol' big money to buy us or bail us out. A new coach will really empower the PTB exert control similar to the pre-Jetgate years.
It seems that the "what have you done for me lately" attitude becoming prevalent in CFB is starting to stink just like Pro Sports. Fans with that attitude just kill the charm and spirit of CFB for me. I quit pro sports years ago and am much better for it.
I guess we'll have to see what happens.
On a totally unrelated point, anyone hear anything about Chris Todd? Anyone? Bueller?
ReplyDeleteI dont know about you guys but I heard some people today badmouthing Fulmer as a pretty good coach but I think they really underestimated the importance of Phil Fulmer. He turned that entire program around when he was able to bring in Peyton Manning, UT basically went national. Just because that didn’t win the national championship with Peyton Manning, who cares, they weren't the better TEAM versus Florida in 95 and 96 and sure as hell wasn’t better than Nebraska in 97. 2 SEC titles and 1 National is pretty damn good when you have to go up against UF, UGA, Bama, Auburn and LSU, whose fan bases think their team is supposed to win the conference every other year. This is coming from an Auburn Grad and Fan. The one thing I liked about PF today is that you can tell he really loves UT, sometimes I wonder if CTT even likes Auburn.
ReplyDeleteTexas played 4 top ten teams in a row. It is completely understandable that those student-athletes would have a tuff time winning that stretch of games. I still think that Texas is the best team in CFB.
ReplyDeleteMost knowledgeble football folks predicted UGA to lose 1 or 2 regular season games. UGA was the preseason best team on paper with the tuffest schedule on paper. UGA folks shouldn't be "upset" with 2 losses... disappointed ..sure.
I'm not convinced that Fla is tuff enough on the OL/DL. Bama is not sexy, but if they beat LSU, they have the starters to punch Fla in the throat and win.
Hoop,
ReplyDeleteIf Bama plays like they have most of the year, they wont lose.
Fulmer didn't have the dysfunctional AU PTB to deal with. CTT has handled that situation much better than I would have. CTT loves much about AU..and he has defended the program against the PTB for a long time.
ReplyDeleteAU now has a lot of nasty fans, I wouldn't blame him if he wanted to get away from a fan base that analyzes and makes fun of his every word and facial expression at press conferences.
He's probably a better man than that.
I agree, people are weird these days.
ReplyDeleteFulmer was a good coach, but just not a next level coach. He did have his one really good year, but he just wasn't a dominant coach that could strike fear in the teams going against him on a consistent basis. I think him press conference today was emotional because of the amount of time he has spent at Tennesse, either as player, coach or head ooach. I'll miss the great pumpkin. Johny Majors on the other hand, his probably doing a victory dance. He despises Fulmer.
ReplyDeleteIs Tubs a next level guy?
ReplyDeleteau1n04- I would like to believe he is, but the evidence points to the contrary.
ReplyDeletestill kinda just down Hotties...I know it's not right but I just kinda.. I don't know how to explain it. I'll be back the closer it gets to game time...WAR EAGLE
ReplyDeleteI really think we need to just relax and give Tuberville another season to work the kinks out. I will be very disappointed if we are not in the spread next season because I think it is the best thing going offensively these days. I can see Tuberville going to something else depending upon the coordinator he hires.
ReplyDeleteSteve- I think were on to bigger things than kinks. I think we have a fishing line that is so tangled it take a long time to get straightened out or you can just cut it loose.
ReplyDeleteFulmer got to the top, picked the wrong type of recruits and never recovered. UT gave him time to recover, but it didn't happen.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure of any coach that strikes "fear". All CFB teams lost at least 2 games last year...So just what is the next level? I don't get it. Is it USC beating up on the pansies in the PAC 10 and still losing 2 games? Is it Ok losing most all BCS bowl games? The standard seems change with each disgruntled person. AU lost 4 games, so I'm sure that is not considered an acceptable level, but I guess if LSU andn't got lucky on that pass and we didn't muff up USF and Miss St., the UGA debacle alone would have been enough to keep us away from the next level.
Whom do you have in mind to take over for Tuberville?
ReplyDeleteI think Chris Petersen is a pretty bad man. Butch Davis has skills. They could be upgrades over Tuberville.
I mean, it's pointless for Auburn to make a move unless they have identified someone gettable who represents an obvious upgrade over Tuberville. There aren't many people who qualify on both counts.
hoopie, I think you nailed what I was thinking, and that is getting embarrased at least once a year. You have to be able to tolerate losses, they happen. Very rarely do you have the perfect storm. The key is to not look so bad that you knock yourself out of the NC picture. We have only really ever been a NC player in November once, and of course that was 2004.
ReplyDeleteEddie, Check your Fulmer stats
ReplyDelete1992 Tennessee 4 0
1993 Tennessee 10 2
1994 Tennessee 8 4
1995 Tennessee 11 1
1996 Tennessee 10 2
1997 Tennessee 11 2
1998 Tennessee 13 0
1999 Tennessee 9 3
2000 Tennessee 8 4
2001 Tennessee 11 2
2002 Tennessee 8 5
2003 Tennessee 10 3
2004 Tennessee 10 3
2005 Tennessee 5 6
2006 Tennessee 9 4
2007 Tennessee 10 4
Majors is just Mad becasue Fulmer was a better coach. UT with majors was irrelevant and became national with Fulmer
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ReplyDeleteI'm thinking we stick with the Arkansas connection.
ReplyDeleteNutt, Malzahn, or Petrino, please. Oh, wait, those are all terrible ideas.
What about that liar at UCF. He used to be top notch, but a simple resume typo sent him to the little leagues, where he's recruited pretty decent. I think its time the big boys give him a second chance.
What is the common thread between 1993 and 1997? They lost to Florida every year. I know all about Fulmer. Grew up in Chattanooga with all the die hard Big Orange fans. Like I said, other than 1998, he always managed to lose a game that he shouldn't. Winning percentage is fine, but I'm telling you, the Tennessee fans have wanted him gone for a while now. Most were not very happy with his contract extension last year, even after the SEC Game appearance.
ReplyDeleteWhy not bring back Cliff Ellis and let him run his "motion" offense on the football field.
ReplyDeleteNo wonder the Vol fans are po'd Look at all the 10+ win seasons. Their next coach better be the second coming or else they'll have him fired in a couple years,
ReplyDeletedang, I finally find Monday Night Football streaming on the internet (Justin.Tv), and my virus checker almost immediately freaks out and starts giving me messages about a known virus trying to access file directories. Oh, well.
ReplyDeleteJGT,
ReplyDeleteMrs.FR and I owe you a Yuengling for adding us to the "Notable Newcomers"
Thanks
Well they got what they wanted, we will see what happens, I mean I agree it was time, but appreciate what the Man did.....is it me, or are all SEC football fans miserable about 95% of the time?
ReplyDeleteJay, I post this question. Do you feel Tuberville still has the same drive that he has had in the past? It sure doesn't seem to be that way, and I mean even before the season he looked down. IMO, this is not the same Tuberville that wa there just a few years ago. Am i the only one that believes that. I would take a fired up Tubs over most, but it just doesn't seem like that his him these days.
ReplyDeleteCoaches that would come to Auburn and be an upgrade over Today Tubs:
Chris Peterson
Butch Davis- too much talk to not be interest.
Mike Leach
I'll throw the X-Factor, Muschamp.
Eddie, I like your choices, but other than money, what would bring them to Auburn from where they are now? And is AU going to shell out what it might take to get them here?
ReplyDeleteEddie,
ReplyDeleteHow about Mike Gundy. Jay could do his "I'm a man, I'm 40" impression for him. It would be great.
Scottatl- When does a trend start? Fulmer has had 4+ losses the last 4 years and was very lucky to win 10 games last year. His record could have easily had 3 more losses. The ball bounced their way just about every time last year except the SEC Championship game.
ReplyDeleteI don't think most SEC Fans are miserable 95% of the time. Personally, i'm dissappointed in the way the season has turned out, but in no way have I let it ruin my personal life.
Scott...
ReplyDeleteAnother thing to keep in mind about Fulmer is that he always finished strong, and he should have. His November schedule was usually S. Carolina, Kentucky, & Vandy, with homecoming thrown in for good measure.
That stretch saved his bacon on more than one occasion.
MrTommy- Lets see. Money as you noted will always be a huge factor. Just remember, this is a business, and most everyone is looking for a raise. Also, Auburn will more than likely have to sell out to the new coach like bama did to Saban. There will probably be a lot of guarenteed money.
ReplyDeletePeterson- Boise State to Auburn would be a huge jump for Peterson. He would more than likely jump at the chance provided Tennesse doesn't get him.
Leach- I think the challenge of the SEC would lure him plus it would be a lot easier for him to be successful than it is for him now at Texas Tech.
Butch Davis- Other than a challenge, which I believe most coaches like because their egos are never in check, that is about the best selling point for him.
Muschamp- Would probably craw back to Auburn from Austin.
Jim- I'm not sold on Mike Gundy. He probably could be a great coach, but I'm just not convinced.
ReplyDeleteAll I will say is this...Let's be careful for what we wish for. My VP was just let go from work. Alot of people were super excited...now all of a sudden, people are becoming nervous on who might take his spot.
ReplyDeleteI'm just sayin'.
That being said....Leach is intriguing.
ReplyDeleteI see your point eddie, but I wonder if they all have the ego to work through at least one rebuilding year here, when they can be pretty certain their own programs will be rather successful. I hope Tuberville stays, personally (however I don't feel the same about his asst's), but if he does leave I think it'd be a coup to get one of these coaches.
ReplyDeleteI think the best case would be keep Tubs, change the Asst's on offense. All of them.
ReplyDeleteDefense is fine, right?
Eddie,
ReplyDeleteI'll add a name to your list - Bill Cowher.
Yeah he's an NFL guy and other than $$$ he probably wouldn't have a lot of motivation to get into the college game, much less Auburn. BUT, if you want to try and hit a home run you have to swing for the fences. If a change is made the powers that be should take a serious run at the guy.
By the way, Jay, thank you for having this blog. It's so much nicer having a place to actually talk auburn football than trying to work your way through all the flaming like you do on the al.com forum.
ReplyDeleteAuburn fans (or coach's) are not patient enough for a drastic offense change, as shown this year. Leach would be run off after 2 years.
ReplyDeleteMrTommyd- If there is anything to be certain of, it is that coaches have huge egos. ALL OF THEM. Trust me, I've been around enough to know. You have to have egos. First off, if Auburn is deemed a "rebuilding" job right now, then I definitely believe Tommy would need to be gone. I don't see that as the case. I believe there is a sold base of players at Auburn. Maybe not all-american type, but there is much more talent than what was here in 98 when Tubs took over. I believe that would be enough to lure a coach here. If that coach wins quickly, which is something that has been proven with the last two coaches, Bowden 93 and Tuberville 2000, then he can hit the floor running. Just look at what Saban has done in 2 years.
ReplyDeleteI was talking Leach earlier today.
ReplyDeleteLeach as assistant coach / offensive co. + CTT = awesomeness
James- I would be leary of a coach that didn't want to coach anymore. Cowher chose to step down at Pittsburgh and I don't think he has the desire to do it right now. I believe Auburn needs someone who is hungry. Granted, Cowher is a great coach, I just don't know that he really wants to coach.
ReplyDeleteTigerfan44- Not all offenses are worse than the previous offense. I think Auburn Fans can accept change, but you have to at least take baby steps forward. This offense only got worse as the year went on.
Granted we have players, very true. But a third offensive scheme in 3 years? Like I said I hope Tuberville stays, but if not, and you're right about the ego thing, maybe one of those on your list would jump at the chance. Speaking of players, is it just bad luck, or a conditioning problem that would account for all of the injuries this team has had to endure the last few years?
ReplyDeleteCowher = home run. Plays defense , runs football = auburn football.
ReplyDeleteI like the Petersen choice. However, I still hope Tubbs stays and cleans house to the offensive side, bring in Malzahn and find some other coaches that are hungry and ready to take on a challenge.
ReplyDeleteIt will be interesting to see if any team picks up the assistants if they are not retained. notice Borges hasnot been hired by anyone. I know he is still getting paid but Ihave only heard his name mentioned for the Opelika High job, which I believe he takes.
mrtommyd- I believe it is bad luck. I would put our conditioning next to any schools conditioning. Yox is one of the best in the Biz. I really believe it is terrible luck.
ReplyDeletewootangclan- I don't think Malzahn would come. I don't think any major OC would come into this situation. I would like to believe that to be the case, but I don't.
ReplyDeleteBorges- I think most thought, including Jay, that Borges was going to be at MSU like now. Most believe he will be there next year.
Just heard about the Opelika job this week from someone (I know, rumors, rumors,rumors) who gave me that info form over there. his wife still has a job at AU and AU still likes her in that job. If she is leaving it will be news to the athletic department.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if Tennessee making a move today will embolden Auburn to do the same. Or would it be seen as being like a copy cat. I mean against TN I saw two evenly matched teams, in a bad way, play against each other. If we played them 10 times this year it would be 5 and 5.
ReplyDeleteI don't Auburn is in a rebuilding mode. I think between making poor decisions in hiring CTF and not giving him the ability to bring in who he needed to, counting on a damaged QB to beat the overwhelming odds to get better, and a multitude of injuries....well here we are.
The offensive assistant coaches not rowing the same way caused Hugh Nall lots of anguish in 03. Led to downfall of Borges and CTF. That means that the HC was not doing what he needed to on offense.
George O'Leary 2009. That's my new campaign, since it appears Jim Tressel didn't care for me speaking of him.
ReplyDeleteI like Pat Hill for the job if only for his awesome facial hair.
ReplyDeletepretty excited about burns, slaughter connection for 2 more years...just being optimistic here
ReplyDeleteChris Peterson would be good because he already has a bunch of orange shirts.
ReplyDeleteI think the best choice for Auburn next year as the Head Coach is Tommy Tuberville.
I think Burns will develop. Unfortunately for Chris Todd, unless some new surgical technique is figured out, I think he needs to work on his class work and prepare for life after football.
ReplyDeleteEddie - You named Leach. Why?
ReplyDeleteWhat do you think about the fact that Franklin and Leach were students of Hal Mumme? And the fact that though he is brilliant, he's a bit of a nutburger...
Cowher - I wanted him the day he retired, but I've been laughed out of many virtual rooms for saying so. I'm ready for it.
I see your Pat Hill and raise you Dave Wannstedt.
ReplyDeleteAgreed Denny Crum. I believe that Auburn will make a decision after or if they can get the next guy lined up. It has been the history of Auburn. They usually on make a move if they have the "known" secured. I believe that is a good way to go about it, unless you get caught like they did in 2003. Anyone ever think about where we would be if Petrino was the coach? I bet he wouldn't be at Auburn right now.
ReplyDeleteI hear Joe Gibbs is available, too
ReplyDeleteAnybody care to guess why the OC at UA didn't bring anyone with him? Was he brought in to run the current system or establish his own?
ReplyDeleteI see why TF needed to bring someone in that ran his offense since no one on the staff can run it, but how many coaches should he have brought in. Do other OC bring in their own assistants or is it just because AU is changing offenses that he would need to bring in his own guy(s)? Just wondering?
I wish Cliff Ellis would hold a "beach music" concert in my living room tonight.
ReplyDeleteI'd like that a whole lot.
He could start with "Groovy Situaiton," the first track on his wildly successful LP People Get Ready. I'd webcast that for the HOTTIES, of course.
Monica- I named Leach simply because the man can flat out coach offense. I see him as a Spurrier type coach. Bob Stoops hired him as the first OC at Oklahoma because he was the one guy that absolutely gave Stoops fits while he was the DC at Florida. I believe that Leach could get a good DC at Auburn and he could be a force in the SEC.
ReplyDeleteEddie as a suffering Falcon fan in full recovery mode, I'm surprised Petrino hasn't started looking now.
ReplyDeleteIf we are going for available coaches, I believe I saw John Vaught at his statue ceremony this past weekend. Wonder if he would coach again.
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of that, I was preparing to webcast Tuberville's Tuesday press conferences.
ReplyDeleteOne minor issue: Auburn Sports ISP owns the broadcast rights.
I wonder if Jon Cole would grant me an HOTNESS exception ...
mrtommyd- I agree with you there. I'm glad the falcons are giving me something to be excited about in the football world this year, kinda like in 98.
ReplyDeleteJay, I bet Cole only talks in $$$ language.
ReplyDeleteI believe Johnny Vaught died a couple of years back
ReplyDeleteYour right RK, he died in 2006. I thought they said he was there for the ceremony. Well, if we are going for dead coaches, lets dig up bear and put him on our sidelines with an orange and blue houndstouth cap. That would set the other side on fire.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure that it was no one could run TF's offense, as so much that he never talked to anyone enough to share with them what the heck kind of offense he was trying to run. Why the heck am I still talking about the TF experiment. If I forget it happened the heartache just might go away.
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of which, did you know that in the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy originally had silver slippers. It was changed in the movie to hide the fact that the whole story was a populists political parable about the election of 1900 and the proposed bimetalic standard.
I might need to go to bed now. I think TT, Kodi Burns and his courageous WR crew, the TF experiment, and the future of Auburn football is driving me a little nutty.
George O'Leary 2009!
I wonder if Bear would continue to insist his salary be $1 less than the University Presidents? That would save lots of cash.
ReplyDeleteIf Petersen came, since he has those Orange shirts, do you think we could get a blue turf field? Boise is 35-3 at home last time I checked about 2 weeks ago.
ReplyDeleteSee Monica, that is the kinda of thinking that works in this economy. Speaking of economy, what is the financial impact of Tuberville being the coach next year or someone else?
ReplyDeleteDo you think Golden Flake would sponsor the coaches show again?
ReplyDeletehey wootangclan, didn't we have a home record like that until just recently?
ReplyDeleteI vote for the blue field.
ReplyDeleteDid you know that they have birds that die because they believe that field is a pond. They dive down full force into the ground. That was a useless fact I thought I would share.
Is there a Forensic Accountant in the house?
ReplyDeleteWow - I remember the Golden Flake days. Wow... :-)
I say we get my good friend College Hall of Fame Coach and two time nationaly champion Roy Kidd to come out of retirement to take the job. We could run the option and the power I. Come to think of it, Georgia Tech seems to be doing just that. Hmmmmmmm........
ReplyDeleteJohn Vaught would be another excellent choice.
Howard Schnellenberger or Johnny Majors would be good too, but I doubt we could keep them in bourbon enough.
Since they were counting on a miracle to happen for Chris Todd to get better. Maybe we could conjure up a spell to get Paul Brown to rise from the dead and coach. I didn't mention any others because Paul Brown is my favorite dead coach.
All kidding aside, Schnellenberger has always seemed like he has about 1000 times the fire that CTT has right now.
And again,,,I think the best coach next year for Auburn would be Tommy Tuberville.
I believe our home record as gone down the tubes since Underarmour came on board and we installed the "We must Protect this house" tunnel cover.
ReplyDeletePeter Frankenschmidt (RoF),
ReplyDeleteI like the William Jennings Bryan reference about the cross of gold. I think that was what you were talkng about and the silver slippers.
Schnellenberger = Crazy old drunk man.
ReplyDeleteDid I just hear a need for a HABOTN forensic accountant? I'd like an internship under whoever takes the position, please.
My vote's for Vince Lombardi. Or Tom Landry. WAIT! John Wooden! Yes. With Michael Jordan as OC!
ReplyDeleteSeriously though. How many of these predictions/hopes for new HCs are even going to be close? I am still holding firm that he stays one more season. And if that happens, it's because he chose to cut the BBQ boys loose and reload on offense.
Denny - Make a call. Make it happen.
ReplyDeleteEddie - We need the inflatable helmet on our tunnel like WVU. Uber hawt.
The inflatable helmet is hard to beat. You know, I miss Auburn running thru the paper signs. When did that stop? 1999?
ReplyDeleteNot very clear on the stats for AU at home. Does anyone have that info over the past 10 years or even the past 5.
ReplyDeletegood night all
ReplyDeleteThe markers for writing on those paper signs were good girl meth in the early 80's
ReplyDeleteYes, WJB vs McKinnley in the 1900 election, as outlined by Baum in the Wizard of Oz. Bryan, I think, was the Lion in the story.
ReplyDeleteIf we're pulling up dead coaches, i think Auburn has a few that earned even more mythical national championships than what is being awarded today. Perhaps we can give them a second shot at credibility.
gnight Denny Crum
ReplyDeleteWootang-
ReplyDelete2008- 2 losses at home so far
2007- 2 losses
2006- 2 losses
2005- 1 loss
2004- 0 losses of course
Can we put a ban on Bill Cowher talk for HC, that is just terrible
ReplyDeletenight crum.
ReplyDeleteJay is awful quiet tonight. I think he feels we are on to something. I think some posters are just on something, but who am I to say.
ReplyDeleteI think Petersen is the man though, if Tubbs is out.
Do you think the new video this week a the the intro will be the Burns-Slaughter pass play. That was our only highlight, I think. Maybe it will be a clip of the ref measuring for a 1st down and we got it.
Wootang- you have to be on something to be an Auburn fan these days :).
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletePeople seem generally pleased with the change from Todd to Burns as the starting quarterback, but since we switched to Burns and simplified the offense, we haven't won a game and our stats are down. Seems like a bit of that ironic irony I have heard so much about.
ReplyDeleteWootang here's a site for you:
ReplyDeletehttp://football.stassen.com/records/
wonder what the voice message that slaughter was recieving in the middle of his interview.
ReplyDeletealso, created a new discussion on facebook as i was looking for some song suggestions for a workout playlist.
Jason Campbell just threw his 1st int of the year.
ReplyDeleteTo put that in perspective, Todd and Burns combine for 13.
Burns has 1 passing TD and 7 interceptions this year.
Steve- I believe if Todd's arm was healthy, he would still be the QB right now. THough I don't believe the running game would be much better, but who knows.
ReplyDeletehmmm... if CTT does go, i don't have a clue. what does anyone think about this Sat. game? Blowout or kinda close game? Ideas?
ReplyDeletemrtommyd, that is an excellent source for stats. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteWe had 394 yds of offense, that not too bad. Why in the world did we only have 7 points? Oh, btw, I've taken myself off actually watching the games for heart stoppage reasons.
ReplyDeleteOK I just looked it up, Boise State home record in last 5 years is 32-1. Since 1999 they are 102-24. Not too bad. I know they are not SEC.
ReplyDeleteJust thinking they have a winning program. dan Hawkins was the previuos coach before Petersen. he is now at Colorado.
Bear- I see a 24-10 type game. I think air gives us difficulty these days.
ReplyDeleteYou are quite welcome Steve, I had to use it WAY too often when arguing on the au forum.
ReplyDeleteThe great coaches establish home field advantage and don't let it go. Look at Meyer, I believe we are the only team to beat him in the swamp.
ReplyDeleteThe question I have for the people wanting CTT back-under what conditions will he be back? I hear total offensive staff overhaul but what GOOD OC comes for maybe a 1-year gig for a lame duck head coach that has ran off OC's left and right? And are recruits going to come if they think Tubs is just holding on for 1 more year? And I say lame duck head coach because we all know if next year in any way resembles this year he is gone. Add in a killer road schedule, another new OC, Marks being gone, Jay seems to think AC will be gone as well does anyone see hope for next year? Maybe I am just too pessimistic but I think the program needs a jolt of new blood and another new OC is not going to do it.
ReplyDeleteeddie4au, I think you are right. Actually, I think if Todd's arm was as healthy as it was at the beginning of the season he would still be the starter. But against Vandy he just looked horrible. It was clear his arm had done all it could do.
ReplyDeleteWell 3 interceptions on the opponents side of the field had a lot to do with us having just 7 points.
ReplyDeleteAlso, we are 2008 Auburn, that is pretty much why we had 7 points.
Eddie,
ReplyDeleteWasn't Ole Miss win this year over Florida in the Swamp?
Am I mistaken?
What's the status on getting me a helmet for the UGA game? I'm almost done with my pregame speech. CLICK CLACK!
ReplyDeleteThanks rk
ReplyDeleteTim, i'm thinking just like you. I don't see any good OC comming here nor do I see recruiting being good in the near future with the uncertainty.
ReplyDeleteyeah, i think/assume we will win, hope we can run it down their throats and be up 3-4 TDs then play subs. actually, we are playing subs now.
ReplyDeleteYour right RK. I was just think about up to this year. I liked Auburn being the only team to win their I guess :).
ReplyDeleteRK- Whats the mood of Tennessee fans there today?
ReplyDeleteGoodnight everyone. Rock the vote, or is it vote or die. Anyway, have a good election day tomorrow. War Eagle!
ReplyDeleteFunny shesaid.
ReplyDeleteI look for a low scoring game. UTM won't as easy of time as they are thinking.
I also think about 55k show up for the game, which will be a bad, bad sign. however, it will be announced as a sellout.
Night mrtommy.
ReplyDeleteThat would be a good question to pose, what do you think the attendance will be?
ReplyDeleteI say 71K.
Most UT fans were really happy almost celebrating, until they saw the human element during the press conference and then they started getting reflective and thankful for all Fulmer had done.
ReplyDeleteHowever, they are pretty excited for the future.
The Bama fans around here are probably the happiest of all.
Paid attendance would probably be better than 80,000 since most of those tickets were sold before the season started.
ReplyDeleteI remember reading before the season started there were less 2,000 tickets left for each game that still had tickets available.
I wonder how many gold stars Jay Geezy has earned tonight?
ReplyDeleteAll those unused tickets will look like confetti lying around the stadium.
ReplyDeleteI also think the UGA will be poorly attended.
Another good question, how many Georgia fans will be at Auburn? I bet 20K UGA fans.
ReplyDeleteI think Autozone had a giveaway this year of free wiper fluid if AU scored over 24 points in a game at home. You had to bring your stub. Boy did they come out a winner this year on not having to give much away. At least they got the advertising but no feet in the door for extra shopping.
ReplyDeleteI don't see 20K UGA fans, mainly because they are pretty down on themselves right now as well.
ReplyDeleteEddie,
ReplyDeleteThere has been this idea out there for a while that no good OC would come to AU. I just don't get that. If I'm a top notch OC, why not come here? I've likely got an ego the size of texas and I likely figure I can fix this mess. I'll make of TON of money doing so, and if I have any success, I can pretty much name the HC position I want. I just think most of those (OC) guys, if they believe in themselves at all, would jump at the opportunity AU offers. I know all the arguments about treatment of previous OC's etc., but I bet most would think "it won't happen to me" because I'll win. That's just my opinion, but I think the idea no one would come here is flawed.
RK- Most of the georgia fans around me claimed they were screwed. They may be down this week, but don't let that fool you. They will be in Auburn in force this year, especially knowing it is a face value ticket game at most.
ReplyDeleteAs someone who is very close to a lot of UGA fans, I can definitely see close to 20k of them there. Seems like everyone I know is going, despite the UF debaucle. They need something to make them feel good about themselves, and I think Auburn just might be able to help.
ReplyDeleteWhat's really hard to grip is how close this team is to being 7-1.
ReplyDeleteMaybe 1 first down against LSU.
Different 4 down play calling on 1st goal against Vandy.
Longer pass to Hawthorne against ARK.
No int against Ole Miss.
I think that would have only prolonged the changes we are going to see.
I know they will be in full force, but I don't see 20K. I don't see that many Auburn fans giving up their ticket for the UGA game, no matter how bad we have played this year.
ReplyDeleteMaybe I'm just out of touch.
Yeah, I've heard the UGA fans complain about the refs last weekend, but the refs didn't give up near 50 points to their main rival.
autiger- I believe they would come if they think they could turn it around in year 1. If they don't turn it around in year 1, do they believe Tubs sees year 2 of their tenure? I may be wrong, but I think the unsure footing of Tubs if he were to survive severly impacts his choices as OC. Do you see enough talent out there on offense right now to believe that it could be a lot better next year? That would be the question to answer for someone looking at the OC position.
ReplyDeleteWootang, this team is far closer to 2-7 than 8-1.
ReplyDeleteI think a name OC would come to AU. If Tubbs is out in one year so be it. If the OC is any good, then he has just had a chance to audition for a good HC gig.
ReplyDeleteJust my opinion.
Eddie- not sure we should go with the blue field if it causes birds(eagles) to fly head first into it. Might make for a tragic scene on gameday. As far as the coaching situation not sure about the HC but definayely need to get some new asst's on offense. Jay, thanks for the add to notable newcomers.
ReplyDeleteRK- I know 4 different close friends with a pair of season tickets, and I am the only one planning on going out of all those. I'm telling you, alot of Auburn people are unloading their Georgia tickets.
ReplyDeleteI'll take them off their hands.
ReplyDeleteDan- I did not even think of that. That would be tragic. That would be worse than firing a HC in midseason of a NC run.
ReplyDeleteRK- email me your contact info and I will see if they have sold them yet.
ReplyDeleteOh I agree we could also be a lot worse, but I would like to think we are better than we are playing. Just being positive.
ReplyDeleteThat ball bounces in funny directions and we have just been on the wrong end. I have used the comparison of last years UA team. They were better than the record. I liked it when they got beat, but almost everything that could go wrong did. If were everything they would have lost all their games, which would have been fine by me.
Eddie,
ReplyDeleteI do think there is talent there. Sometimes it just takes the right person with the right approach to put it correctly to use. Example: Dye leaves after a 5 adn 6 season, Bowden comes in and runs off a string of what was it, 20 straight wins. I think for the top tier SEC teams (us, UA, LSU, TN, FL, GA) there is always talent there, it's just a matter of putting the players in a position to succeed.
rk- i agree. wins over UT and MSU were close and could have gone the other way. REALLY close to 2-7.
We need a HABOTN tailgate party for the Georgia Game. That would rock.
ReplyDeleteIt's getting late. Gotta run.
ReplyDelete