Auburn Tigers Could Use a Change in Strategy

In recent history, the Auburn Tigers have been known for a few key things that make or break their season.  First, they have two running backs sharing the load.  Second, fast defenses that keep the game close.  Third, they use spectacular play against the best teams in the country. 

As a devoted fan, I have enjoyed the running back tandems that have shared the responsibility of removing the spotlight from less than stellar quarterbacks. 

I think Tommy Tuberville's devotion to speed, agility, and intelligence on the defensive side of the ball is the most consistent way to keep Auburn in the tough games.  These qualities allow Auburn to keep the best teams in the country contained long enough to strike at the end of the game for the last minute field goal (Florida last year holy...). 

I think these qualities have reached their highest possible affect, and its time to match them with two new qualities: a good quarterback and a spread offense. 

First, I think Chris Todd should be the quarterback this season.  He has played in the Franklin spread system since he was sixteen.  He's also older and more mature. 

On the other hand, if Todd struggles, it shows confidence in your young backup to put him in if necessary.  I think this would actually give Burns more confidence because it would show that his coaches trust him enough to throw him in when either Todd loses his touch, or you need another runner on the field in tight situations.

Having said that, if you match an experienced leader with Brad Lester for the short gains and a Mario Fannin for the slot, then you have a crew that is guaranteed to get four or five yards on short runs and quick dump offs.  This opens the holes for longer runs later in the game, and deeper passes for the wideouts when the defensive secondary moves up to press the middle and the flats. 

I'm hoping this strategy works for Auburn because it leaves all of their historical strengths and fixes their weaknesses.

Tell me what you think...Drew (WDE)