Shhhhhhh! Auburn's Playing Football

If you're an Auburn fan flocking to a home game in the coming weeks, you might find a "Do Not Disturb" sign posted on the gates to Jordan-Hare Stadium. 

In an interview with reporters after their loss to LSU, defensive end Tez Doolittle said, "(paraphrased)...it's difficult to hear plays being called over the noise of the fans." Doolittle commented on the new style of play that Auburn has been running lately but placed much of the blame, in his mind, on the noise level of the fans. 

Auburn fans have long touted "The Jungle" as a difficult playing locale due in large part to the noise level of their fans. However, to Tez Doolittle, it seems fan noise—not botched plays or lack of conditioning—led to their defeat last Saturday. 

Auburn gave up more yards defensively against LSU than they have all year, a fact that was not lost on Auburn's defensive coordinator, Paul Rhoads: "This team was still what I would call distraught today. The loss affected them."

Coming back after a long recovery, Doolittle should take heed not to place blame on a fanbase that heralded his return. Auburn may have done some things right, but in the end they came up short.

In a 26-21 loss, the difference is a touchdown, not crowd noise—a fact that everyone on Auburn's football team should remember.

Cheer on, Tiger fans: Maybe you'll help your team lose another one.

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