Bleacher Report - Articles by Deric Winslett

Auburn Tigers Looking To Satisfy Sweet Tooth

Deric Winslett — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:18:30 -0400

Auburn, AL—If vengeance is sweet, the Auburn Tigers are looking for a toothache instead of the heartache they felt in 2008. The first game of the season pits the Tigers against an opponent not anywhere close to the caliber of a UCLA, Ohio State, or even a Virginia Tech. However, it’s a chance for Auburn to relieve a year's worth of pent-up frustration.

Despite what a few bloggers have stated, Louisiana Tech will not make it two straight season-opening wins over an SEC school, especially at the expense of new head coach Gene Chizik and Auburn.

La. Tech returns 16 starters from last year’s 8-5 team. However, that will not be enough to beat Auburn and its much more talented 15 returning starters.

After last year's 5-7 debacle under former head coach Tommy Tuberville, Chizik will not have to say much to motivate his players. I have a hunch that the Tigers will come out roaring and hungry for blood to prove last season was an anomaly.

Are you catching on to the theme here?

Chizik and crew are just 16 days away from closing fall camp and preparing to kick off four straight home games against La. Tech, Mississippi State, West Virginia, and Ball State. The Auburn fans are hoping the early schedule will equate to four straight much-needed victories.

The road wins may be tougher to come by if the Tigers want to have a successful season and compete for a Western Division Championship. It will be vital to win all of their home games and take at least two on the road.

The Tigers must travel to Tennessee and Arkansas back-to-back, followed by LSU and Georgia. Other games shuffled in are at home against Kentucky, Ole Miss, Furman (HC), and of course the Iron Bowl against Alabama.

La. Tech has several playmakers on offense and a veteran quarterback in Ross Jenkins.

The Bulldogs will be led by a strong defensive line that features several SEC-caliber players and is coached by former Auburn and All-SEC defensive lineman Jimmy Brumbaugh. Brumbaugh served as a strength and conditioning assistant at LSU in 2006 and 2007 before leaving for the Bulldogs.

Auburn should once again feature a stout defense led by senior DE Antonio Coleman. Jake Ricks is expected to anchor the defensive line at tackle. Josh Bynes, Craig Stevens, Spencer Pybus, and junior college transfer Eltoro Freeman will be the cornerstones at linebacker.

Depth at linebacker becomes a real issue. Even though defensive coordinator Ted Roof can plug some guys in, the numbers are not there. Chizik said he and Roof may look to run different formations at times to compensate for the thin LB corps.

Chizik was the defensive architect of the 13-0 squad in 2004 that led the country in scoring and was in the top 10 in every statistical category. It’s also worth mentioning that he was the national assistant coach of the year in ‘04.

Chizik’s style of defense was instrumental, capturing a national championship as the Texas Longhorns defensive coordinator in 2005. You can expect this defense to be prototypical of Chizik’s tough style. Without question, they must stay healthy to be a successful unit, however.

The offense is being revamped by Gus Malzahn. If I have to lay out the history of the success that Malzahn has had everywhere he has coached, then you're not a college football fan and would not be reading this article anyway.

Malzahn and Chizik wanted to be on the fast track in naming a starter at QB. Mission accomplished! Chris Todd came on late this year, having been unavailable in the spring. He underwent corrective shoulder surgery on his throwing arm in December.

Having a small window of opportunity, he won the job fair and square by beating out Kodi Burns and Neil Caudle. Burns has been moved to an all-around utility position at slot receiver and wildcat QB. Caudle and true freshman Tyrik Rollison are battling it out for second-string QB.

While Malzahn and the other assistants work to install the final touches on offense, Trooper Taylor has been busy looking for the right receiver combination. Trooper said he is looking for his primary wide receivers.

Emory Blake and DeAngelo Benton are the most notable, but Taylor is also thrilled with Travante Stallworth, Anthony Gulley, and Darvin Adams. Terrell Zachary “will be one of his top guys,” Taylor said.

Tim Hawthorne is rehabbing from injury, so it's unclear if he’ll be ready when the season begins. It may be tough to break into a crowded receiving corps at this point anyway. What seemed to be a weak point in the spring may have blossomed into a strength for the Tigers.

Montez Billings and Philip Pierre-Louis both have put their personal and academic problems behind them. Both are expected to be able to contribute. Taylor says that Billings will be in the starting lineup. Pierre-Louis reported to Tuesday's practice but Chizik stated he had a long way to go.

The strongest position on the team without a doubt will be at running back. Ben Tate is the starter and is on the Maxwell Award watch list. Mario Fannin will be mixed in as well and will be Mr. Everything in Malzahn’s scheme.

To complement the new Auburn offense will be a Carnell Williams and Ronnie Brown-type tandem in super-fast Onterio McCalebb and 232-pound bruiser Eric Smith. Both have great hands and excellent vision. McCalebb is the fastest offensive player and second fastest on the team only to the human bullet Travante Stallworth.

Dontae Aycock is looking really solid and will add more depth at RB as well. It will be a mad scramble for opposing defenses to keep up with who is coming and going in this fast paced offense. If the players and coaches can put all the pieces together quickly, expect this offense to be very explosive.

My Prediction: Auburn 51–La Tech 17

Auburn Tigers 2009 Schedule

Sep. 5	vs. Louisiana Tech	7:00 PM ET (ESPNU)
Sep. 12	vs. Mississippi State	7:00 PM ET (ESGP/E360)
Sep. 19	vs. 23 West Virginia	8:45 PM ET ()
Sep. 26	vs. Ball State	TBA ()
Oct. 3	at Tennessee	TBA ()
Oct. 10	at Arkansas	TBA ()
Oct. 17	vs. Kentucky	TBA ()
Oct. 24	at LSU	8:00 PM ET ()
Oct. 31	vs. 14 Mississippi	TBA ()
Nov. 7	vs. Furman	TBA ()
Nov. 14	at 13 Georgia	TBA ()
Nov. 27	vs. 6 Alabama	2:30 PM ET (CBS)

The Rooster Is Getting Ready to Crow: Get Ready College Football Fans

Deric Winslett — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:58:57 -0400

We are just 56 days from college football kicking off once again.

From Ann Arbor Michigan to Washington State, fans of the purest and greatest sport on Earth are slumbering away their summer. Yeah, many are on the lakes, taking vacations with family, or setting idle ally by waiting for their stimulus check to crash the mailbox.

Sure, their eyes maybe open, but how many are truly awake?

Nowhere in the country does college football mean more than in the Deep South.

No, I’m not referring to the ACC. I’m talking about the undisputed champion, the SEC, where nothing including the roar of engines screaming around a large circle of asphalt can compare.

Yeah, there are other college towns and big cities that sport their own brand of the game and the festivities surrounding it. But none compare to the tailgating in the grove at Ole Miss, listening to nearly 90 thousand yell "War Eagle" in unison while watching a golden eagle circle the stadium in Auburn, or calling the hogs in Arkansas. Let’s not forget the Gator Chomp in Gainesville, or the getting your picture taken next to a statue of “The Bear” in Tuscaloosa.

These are all great places to be on any given game day, but the SEC offers seven more equally majestic and exciting places to be.

Let’s take a look, however, at some of the best matchups we will see in 2009 outside SEC conference play.

Speaking of roosters crowing, the South Carolina Gamecocks will be the first SEC team to kick off for a Thursday night headliner at North Carolina State. The game will be aired nationally Sept. 3 on ESPN at 6 p.m.

As Saturday rolls around, the matchups get even better.

Complimenting the season Kentucky had in 2008, it’s worth mentioning the Wildcats host Miami of Ohio for an early morning kick-off on ESPNU at 11 a.m.

The Georgia bulldogs will be busy taking a bite or two while visiting Oklahoma State on ABC at 2:30.

If you still have a hunger for more, a few million will witness Alabama try to cook up some southern style turkey when the Crimson Tide take on highly-ranked Virginia Tech on ABC at 7 p.m.

LSU will travel to Washington for a classic cat and dog fight to close out the evening on ESPN at 9:30 p.m.

Then, last but not least, the surprise team in the SEC last year, Ole Miss, will travel to Memphis Sunday Sept. 6 for a 2:30 kick-off on ESPN. The Tigers will attempt to spoil the momentum that Houston Nutt and the rest of the “Hotty Toddy’s” will be looking to continue in 2009, while the Rebels hope to march straight to Atlanta for glory and a conference crown.

Tennessee will be looking to put its money where its mouth is, as the Volunteers host the Bruins of UCLA at 3 p.m. on ESPN. Because of all the recent talk coming out of Knoxville from the Vols coaching staff, that's enough said.

West Virginia will be leaving its mountain top to travel down to the most beautiful village on the plains, as Auburn will be looking for payback from last season’s embarrassment in Morgantown. Something tells me the Auburn fans will show some good ol’ fashioned true southern hospitality, until the Tigers are unleashed inside the “not so friendly” confines of Jordan Hare Stadium.

Two old foes will collide in a made for TV classic when Texas A&M goes on the hunt for the Razorbacks of Arkansas. The Aggie faithful will be wondering who let the Hawgs out, but the only problem is that the rest of us may not get to see it.

Where are you on this one CBS?

So there you have it—just a few of the best games we will see in 2009. Until then, just hit the snooze button a few more times.

The Gene Chizik Era Brings Changes to Auburn Spring Practice

Deric Winslett — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 14:06:24 -0400

Auburn, AL—The Gene Chizik football era is about to officially begin at Auburn University. The Tigers are less than a week away from kicking off spring practice Tuesday, March 24. The practice plans are in place, the artificial turf is clean, and Chizik's team is ready to get mean.

But Tiger fans who enjoyed tracking along the sidelines during the Tommy Tuberville days will have to wait for their local news video on TV, or if they're lucky, get some epic footage from Charles Goldberg of the Birmingham News posted on his blog.

For the first time in years the spring practices are closed to the public. The first chance any common Joe Tiger fans will get a sneak peek at the ins and outs of Chizik ball will be Saturday, April 18 at 1 p.m., when the Tigers take Pat Dye Field inside Jordan Hare Stadium for the annual A-Day game.

The final spring practice will be Sunday, April 19. That's 15 practices spread over 26 days and broken down to Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday of each week with the exception of Easter Sunday.

Practice times have not been announced, but for us Joes it does not matter—we won't be there anyway.

I know what you're thinking. I'm a scribe for Bleacher Report and a season ticket holder; surely I could rub elbows with the media that will attend.

Nope—I'll pay my five bucks at the gate, find a seat that puts the sun at my back, like the 18th row of section 3, tease all the other fans with my McDonald's bag full of double cheeseburgers, and enjoy the game.

Closing practice is actually a smart move that could work for Chizik and his coaching staff. Closed practice equals limited distractions, focus, and may promote increased attendance for the A-Day game.

However, I think it's more about keeping the focus and limiting the sideline distractions of the football-loving fan. Most people attending the less formal spring practices under Tuberville respected the boundary behind the ropes. I don't think first year head coach Gene Chizik wants to take a chance.

Nonetheless, "it is what it is"—and what it's not is open to you and I. So I'll see you at the A-Day game. Bring your own burgers.

NCAA "Eyes" Alabama Football Again for Textbooks Infractions

Deric Winslett — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 11:05:59 -0500

TUSCALOOSA, Ala.—Key University of Alabama representatives met last month with the NCAA Committee on Infractions to answer two allegations of potential major violations stemming from the University's 2007 textbook investigation.

The NCAA released documents accusing the University of Alabama of "failure to adequately monitor its student-athlete textbook distribution system." The university ultimately admitted to the accusations.

School officials launched an internal investigation into impermissible receipt of textbooks soon after Oct. 17, 2007, when an employee at the University bookstore noticed "questionable textbook charges in excess of $1,600 for the fall 2007 semester," The NCAA was notified Oct. 19, after the UA compliance office uncovered "charges in excess of $1,300 and $1,500 for fall 2007."

Five football players, including three starters, were declared ineligible the night before the Oct. 20 home football game against the University of Tennessee.

Officials with the University have stated that a final resolution from the NCAA is expected by May, and the Committee on Infractions could apply sanctions upon individual sport programs, including the Crimson Tide football team.

However, one benefit to the University's athletics program is UA self-reported the findings of its internal investigation to the NCCA. Also, no Crimson Tide coaches or officials were involved, according to their report presented to the NCAA.

The NCAA has notified UA that the school could be subject to penalties that include loss of scholarships and restrictions of all forms of recruiting visits. The NCAA also acknowledged that UA could be subject to penalties as a "repeat violator," stemming from sanctions of the football program in 2002.

Those penalties may include the football program being shut down for two seasons if the violations were found to warrant such action.

The Alabama football program and others within the SEC have had fairly recent run-ins with the NCAA sanctions committee, proving that the NCAA has curiously turned a watchful eye on the country's best college sports conference.

Ultimately, universities, administrator, coaches, and fans can blame who they want for getting into trouble. But the simple fact is, as long as you don't break the rules, your program won’t be subject to penalties handed down by the God of college sports, the NCAA.

Good luck Alabama; you may need it. With any luck, though, you may be able to slip your way out of this minor violation like the USC Trojans have with the Reggie Bush “Pay for Play” scandal. Mr. NCAA, how is that investigation going? Hmm!

NCAA Recruiting Indulgence: Why Do College Football Fans Become Junkies?

Deric Winslett — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 16:30:21 -0500

One man's perception is another man's crapulence (Crap"u*lence, n. The sickness occasioned by intemperance or over-indulgence).

Some people get over-enthralled when others project a certain opinion about someone else, and this is evident in the recruiting season. Look at how the typical college football fan constantly scans message boards and Web sites for the latest recruiting update. And let's not forget the junkies who waste their money for the pleasure of salivating over the hottest new teenage additions (hey, get your mind out of the gutter).

We are talking about the various recruiting sites that charge an average of $100 to provide you, the junkie, with up-to-the-minute information on the prize recruits of choice. Information that will be posted within a matter of minutes by other media anyway. Are you feeling suckered yet?

What used to be a cottage industry has turn into a multi-million-dollar giant, a monster created mainly on the backs of the working-class Joe trying to put food on his table.

I know the subscription sales are just the tip of the iceberg. With marathon shows on practically every ESPN channel and other networks, this providing of "exclusive" recruiting information doesn't look to be going away anytime soon.

The sad thing is the “information” being spoon-fed to the willing populace is pretty much catered to those willing to spend their hard-earned dollars. Do you really think Alabama suddenly moving from third to take over the first-place position was anything other than catering to the 'Bama Nation?

During the last 10 years, recruiting is what many fans have to live for, Alabama topping the list. That tradition is not going to fade away, like super wide neckties did. Actually, come to think of it, those kind of ties are back. Guess all things ugly have to come back every decade or so.

Do you really think any team other than Alabama had a chance to be crowned the “Rivals Recruiting National Champion?” All of the drama with LSU being the top dog most of the day was simply to create drama. Highly coveted No. 1 wide receiver Reuben Randle did nothing to bolster LSU’s stake to the top spot.

The Tide fans were so giddy after the crowning. Had they pulled a royal flush and fished out Mr. Randle from the bayou, it would have been enough for the Bear to ascend from heaven's gates ready to coach ’em up. (No, they still have not let Bear into heaven yet. God doesn't allow houndstooth hats to be worn inside).

I guess for those you who are not 'Bama fans, there are positives. If Alabama placed anywhere other than first, Rivals subscriptions would have dropped 60 percent. Rivals executives would have to lay off all of their 'Bama graduate employees. Ultimately, the corporation would have to stand in line begging for millions from the government. So there you go, a few tax dollars were spared.

As if it was not bad enough for those Tiger fans who watched the slobber bath from Rivals over Alabama, remember what happened to No. 1-rated prep star wide receiver DeAngelo Benton. He shocked the college football recruiting world when he signed with Auburn; he was a five-star recruit on the Rivals Web site up until that moment.

Two minutes after he signed with Auburn, his picture was removed from Rivals' website and he dropped to four stars. How does Rivals expect to maintain any credibility after that? They can't. One more reason why intelligent people put all of their faith in these so-called recruiting experts: they are human and, ergo, motivated by greed.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that I'm not bashing Alabama, but rather the crazed fans of any team who will cling to any bit of recruiting news, spend money on expensive sites, denigrate players who don't sign with their school, and generally exhibit crapulence during the recruiting year. They're just football players. It's not life or death.

Huge Offensive Tackle To Visit Auburn This Weekend

Deric Winslett — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:54:42 -0500

Auburn,AL-With Auburn attracting some big names to the plains like Reuben Randle, Emory Blake and others, why not add another; Olive Branch (MS) four star recruit Aubrey Phillips is prepared to take a last minute visit with Gene Chizik and the Tigers. Once again give Trooper Taylor the credit for this possible recruiting acquisition.

Rising star safety Daren Bates also of Olive Branch, committed to Auburn on Thursday. Why is this important to this scenario? Read on…

Bates, who is 5-foot-11, 195, had offers from Auburn, Alabama and Tennessee. He originally verbally committed to Arkansas State, but began to waiver when Tennessee began to show interest in him. The rumor is that the Vols originally took a look at Bates because Aubrey Phillips and Bates want to play on the same team. Some have quietly speculated the two are a package deal.

By in large however, I’m in the opinion that Daren Bates qualities as a safety and play maker stand on there own. He is a relative unknown simply because he was overlooked by the recruiting subscription folks. Since Tennessee and Alabama showed enough interest to offer him a scholarship. Along with his verbal commitment to Auburn, his stock has risen quickly.

By the time Bates is actually evaluated, he will move from a two star as high as a four. But of course depending on how many subscriptions are purchased by the fans of the university that lands any given recruit. Will of course dictate just how many stars are stamped next to his name.

Bates and Phillips would be a very big pickup individually, but even more so as a combo deal if the rumor is true. Phillips is a mammoth 6’6” 310 offensive lineman who clocks in a 40 time at 5.1 seconds. He’s a sure qualifier with a GPA of 3.8. He visited Florida State last weekend. Phillips went in to the visit as a Tennessee commitment. However, he is now seriously considering the Tigers. Why a change from having low interests in Auburn to now taking a visit on the last weekend before signing day? Well put two and two together and see what you’re conclusion is.

Another bonus for Auburn and Aubrey Phillips is the Tigers major need for offensive lineman. The folks in the recruiting world and college coaches are high on this young man. And say he could be a starter day one. I have heard he’s like a Willie Anderson type guy.

Auburn fans know what kind of lineman Willie Anderson was for the Tigers. Anderson was selected in the first round (10th overall) of the 1996 NFL Draft. Anderson was also selected to represent the AFC in the 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 Pro Bowls. That comparison is a very nice compliment for Phillips. If he plays half as good as Mr. Anderson, his future is extremely bright. And he will have almost as many green backs as a government buyout.

There is no doubt that this weekend for Auburns coaching staff is the biggest, most important day, possibly sense any of them began their respective coaching careers. Their professional reputations are on the line. And how they finish this abbreviated recruiting run while at Auburn. Will in the eyes of many, be a measuring stick of their success. As well as a judgment of their leadership over a new era of Auburn football. Fair or not-it’s the way it is.

So I close with the wise words of American Idol host Ryan Seacrest say’s as he closes his prologue; “it all starts now”. And so it does…

Schools Interested in Aubrey Phillips

Tennessee (soft verbal)	COMMITTED (12/28/2008)	1/16/2009
Arkansas	Low	1/9/2009
Auburn	Low	1/30/2009	Trooper Taylor Jeff Grimes
Florida State	Low	1/23/2009
Ole Miss	Low	None	Mike Markuson
Mississippi State	Low	None
Oklahoma State	Low	None
Penn State	None	None
Georgia Tech	None	None
Louisville	None	None
Memphis

Auburn Looking To Land Knockout Punch with 2009 Recruiting

Deric Winslett — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 10:46:10 -0500

Auburn, AL—With football recruiting in full-blown assault mode, the most beautiful village on the plains is quivering with nervous excitement like David facing Goliath. The self-anointed Goliath known as Alabama is poised to land a mighty death blow.

In the wise words of ESPN commentator Lee Corso, “Not so fast my friends.” Gene Chizik and his smart as a fox recruiters have already entered the chicken house. They are attempting to steal as many golden eggs as possible.

Some outside the city limits of Auburn may be willing to turn an arrogant eye toward the plains while turning up their noses. However, the ambition of the Auburn coaches certainly shouldn’t go unnoticed—especially with the players they are now recruiting.

For the limited length of time Chizik, but more importantly, his assistant coaches have been on the recruiting trail for Auburn, they have made some serious inroads to some high level talent. That's making the boys on the other side of the state take notice.

Is it too late for Auburn to convince some of those players to commit to play for first year head coach Gene Chizik? I can’t answer that question. Who can truly get in the minds of these young men, let alone predict with certainty what they will do from one week to the next.

The best thing Chizik and his staff can hope for is to make a lasting impression on the recruits, an impression that will last 14 more days—national signing day is Feb. 4.

Tana Patrick, a four-star linebacker, stated after his weekend trip to Auburn, “the visit improved the Tigers' chances.” The in-state player from Stevenson will visit Southern California and Miami next. “It went really well. I got to know the coaches and everything, so it went real good. I got to know Coach Roof a lot.” Patrick said the decision would ultimately be between Alabama, Auburn, USC, Miami, and Tennessee.

Not one recruit leaving Auburn Sunday had one negative thing to say about their recruiting experience. Most of the visitors taking their first official visit were pleasantly surprised. That leads me to question what other coaches were maybe saying about Auburn, hmmmm?

What do the positive responses from the recruits truthfully say about Auburn? Obviously for the recruits that have never been to Auburn before, they are finding out firsthand what Auburn and the surrounding community have to offer them: family atmosphere, great education, campus life, and a winning tradition—not to mention a real chance for playing time for some.

Can you find all of that at other schools? Sure, but my point is, the discovery of what Auburn's about is enticing to the recruits.

The countdown to the final days for official visits has begun, and some new surprises for the Auburn family have emerged.

Gus Malzahn and receivers coach Trooper Taylor visited highly regarded wide receiver Emory Blake in Austin, Texas on Monday, a day after Blake, rivals.com's 42nd-rated WR, was in Auburn taking an official visit, according to Auburnsports.com. Blake told the website he was favorably impressed with Auburn, and his parents like Malzahn and Taylor.

Rising star QB Clint Mosley will take his official visit after committing last week to play for the Tigers. A product of Leroy, Mosley has been voted Alabama’s Mr. Football. He’s a solid pickup for the Tigers and has a lot of upside. Auburn is pretty loaded at the QB position.

I don’t expect Auburn to sign former commitment Raymond Cotton. Cotton has expressed new interest in Ole Miss as well. I see him signing with Houston Nutt.

Offensive coordinator Malzahn asked Clint to wait to take his official visit to help recruit some big-time players Jan. 30. Who will be there? None other than the No. 1-rated WR in the nation, Rueben Randle.

Emmitt Randle, Rueben's father, told the Birmingham News on Tuesday that his son will take an official visit to Auburn after all. Auburn became a laughingstock in the state after Randle’s high school coach had reported that Rueben would visit the Tigers two weekends ago, but the supposed trip was canceled.

No one outside of Auburn believes the Tigers have a legitimate shot to sign Randle. However, their odds certainly improve once he’s on campus. The fact that Auburn is even in the mix this late in the game is a miracle in itself. You gotta give credit to this staff for going after the big boys.

Malzahn was in Bastrop, La., on Monday visiting with Rueben and his family. "He came here yesterday and talked to Rueben," Emmitt Randle said. "He's going to check out the school on Jan. 30." Mr. Randle added that Rueben has not expressed much interest in Auburn, and his top four schools are still LSU, Alabama, Miami, and Oklahoma. The player visited Alabama this past weekend. LSU is reportedly the favorite.

Obviously Gus said something Rueben liked during the visit. Now it will be up to Chizik and Gus to close the deal on Rueben’s father as well.

Another big-time recruit is Petey Smith. According to AuburnUndercover.com, Smith said he is very eager to check out Auburn's defense. The Under Armour All-American linebacker has some questions, and he’ll look for some answers this weekend when he visits Auburn. Who better to give him those answers? Chizik is known as one the best defensive minds in the country.

Petey Smith is the brother of current Auburn running back Eric Smith. One would think that would be a sure win for the Tigers. Never count your war eagles before they hatch.

The opposition can spout off anything they want too about Auburn and this new coaching staff. They have more than proved they are not afraid to get in the mix with Goliath or Satan himself.

Recruiting is like boxing. You stand toe to toe, land a big hit, and take a big hit. All that really matters is who is standing when the final bell rings. Auburn is looking to land a KO in round 14. Ding-ding!

Auburn and 'Bama Fans Could Learn Something from a Fox and Hound

Deric Winslett — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 19:23:54 -0500

Do yourself a favor and take time to read this story. Please pass it along...

You know in the classic Disney animated movie, The Fox and The Hound? The story line goes something like this.

The hound and the fox meet during their juvenile age. The two become best friends. And hang out every day experiencing all the best things in life. Unknowingly they were not supposed to be best of friends at all; they actually should have been enemies. But something strange happened through their friendship for one another. They put aside there inherent differences.

Eventually the fox and hound grew older and due to circumstances not of their own, they were separated.

Through their division they set off reluctantly to live their lives apart. Until one day their two paths crossed once again. However, things were not the same as before. They had unwittingly become enemies. The sad things was, they did not remember where this hate came from or understood why such hate occurred. One thing for sure, it came natural and it was fearsome.

After several near disastrous meetings, a final climatic battle between the previously best of friends almost ended in tragedy. At the moment when you would have thought nothing but the worst was going to happen. An epiphany came over them both. The admiration they once shared was proven alive again.

At that précise moment the owner of the hound; a farmer was ready to shoot the fox. The hound placed himself in front of the gun, not allowing the farmer to fire. Quietly with a whimper the hound convinced the farmer to let the fox live.

As the farmer walked away, the fox and hound stood in virtual silence starring at each other. Realizing they’re love, although buried deep was still there. They both realized as the hound walked away, they could never be together as friends again. However, they also new they’re friendship would never die.

While searching the Auburnfootball blogs I stumbled on the posting below. I don’t know who littlelephan is, but his story about his friend Alice touched me. It’s a simple reminder, but on the grandest of scales. Their story like the fox and hound—it’s what life is really about. Friendship, respect, and love.

I hope as you read his story, I pray it touches you as well.

Littlelephan, this is for you and Alice. I hope you don’t mind.

Littlelephan on 01/13/09 at 11:10AM

I've been away for awhile. I had to take care of something personal. I've decided I'll share it with those of you who are interested.

I'm writing to you from my office in the executive corporate suite of our headquarters. When I started with this company 24 years ago I wasn't allowed in this area of the building. Unless I was bringing donuts and coffee to someone who was Alice, the meanest woman I had ever met. She was assigned to train me as she had done for so many who came before me.

Alice never missed an opportunity to tell you what she thought of you, or what she thought of anything for that matter. And she had a way of expressing things in ways that you would always remember.

Over the years I got to know Alice well. Eventually she became one of my associates, but she was before that; and of course remained my very close friend.

She never failed to send a card on my birthday or ask how the wife and kids were doing. She would even sew my buttons when they would pop off my shirt. As I said; Alice was not a secretive person. She told you what she thought. Here's what I know for sure.

She loved serving the Lord. She believed marriage is between a woman and a man. She thought hard work was the key to success. And she loved Auburn football. We shared many beliefs and I forgave her for the last one. On Mondays after the Iron Bowl she would come directly to my office to either rub it in or to take her abuse, depending on the outcome.

The Friday before the every Iron Bowl is a working holiday at our company. We have a week-long contest; Auburn fans VS Alabama fans-make a contest of raising money for charity. We come together on Friday to see who wins and also for a pep rally/contest.

Give Alice a microphone and no one else has a chance. It was always so funny to see this little grandmother of a figure-yell at the top of her lungs, WAR DAMN EAGLE! As she shook her orange and blue pom-poms in the face of anyone who got too close.

Alice retired last year. A few months ago we got bad news. The cancer she battled several years earlier had returned. Last Thursday afternoon I went to see her. She was complaining about everything.

Her biggest complaint was the fact that she was not able to go to a New Years dance this year. She loved to dance. I promised her I would take her dancing next New Year's Eve. As I left I couldn't help thinking it would be our last visit. On Friday morning I got the call.

Certainly next year's pep-rally will be quite different without Alice. The Iron Bowl will never be quite the same for me either. However, I'm absolutely sure Alice's new seat for the game will be better than any seat in the house. I'm sure at some point during the game, I'll think of Alice. And even though I'll be rooting hard for the Tide, I'll look up and give Alice one good WAR DAMN EAGLE!

War Damn Eagle Alice! I love you and I'll miss you.

Tracy Rocker Accepts Auburn Offer

Deric Winslett — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 11:10:36 -0500

Oxford, Miss.—Sources in Oxford, Mississippi are reporting that former Auburn defensive star Tracy Rocker has accepted a coaching position with the Auburn Tigers. Rocker has interviewed, and an offer was extended to him by head coach Gene Chizik to coach the defensive line. An official announcement is believed to be forthcoming later today.

Late last week reports were confirmed by Houston Nutt that Auburn and Tracy had been in talks about possibly joining the Auburn staff. However, attempts to confirm at this time with Nutt about the decision have failed.

All Ole Miss assistant coaches are expected to receive raises as part of Nutt's contract negotiations. Rocker currently earns over $200,000 per year with the Rebels. There's no report on what his pay raise would have been had he stayed with Nutt.

Rocker was a two-time All-America player during the 1980 under Hall of Fame coaching legend Pat Dye. He was a three-time All-SEC selection and selected as the SEC Player of the Year as a senior. During his college career at Auburn, he won the Outland Trophy as well as the Lombardi Award, and he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2004.

Rocker has spent 15 years as a college assistant, including six years under Houston Nutt—five at Arkansas and one at Ole Miss, where he currently is coaching the defensive line. He also had coaching stops at Troy and Cincinnati, as well as the NFL.

The First of Three Recruiting Weekends Successful at Auburn

Deric Winslett — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 14:37:03 -0500

Auburn, Ala.: Gene Chizik characterized this past weekend's recruiting as vital and should be treated like game day. Apparently that strategy was impressive for the 10 high school recruits visiting The Plains this weekend.

Chizik and his coaching staff have two more official recruiting weekends remaining before signing day to make an impression. The nation's No. 1-rated wide receiver, Reuben Randle, is expected to make one of those visits before making his final decision. He has stated he will wait to make his choice known on signing day Feb. 4.

The first day that a high school athlete can sign with his prospective school, Chizik hopes it will be the Auburn Tigers. Curtis Luper recruited Randle while he was coaching at Oklahoma State.

Randle had previously scheduled a visit this weekend; however, canceled due to a conflict with family plans.

Unlike what Alabama fans have declared, don’t expect Chizik to give up on recruiting the home state.

"It's real simple. You start in this state first and then you work your way out," Chizik said.

"We've got to saturate this state and we've got to do a great job of recruiting in this state. That's the No. 1 priority, and then you kind of branch out from there."

With the talent of the coaching staff I don’t see a problem with the Tigers getting their fair share, particularly next season, when they have a full year to build relationships with high school coaches and athletes.

Chizik acknowledged he might allow his assistant coaches, Malzahn, Luper, Boulware, and Taylor from Big 12 country to return to recruit Oklahoma and Texas will this be regular trend?

We’ll have to wait and see. With the amount of talent there, I don’t think it would hurt. Diversification is always good.

Auburn got a boost when highly touted tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen of Marietta, Ga., one of Tommy Tuberville's previous verbal commitments, told AuburnSports.com on Saturday that he'll sign with Auburn and Gene Chizik.

When Lutzenkirchen reopened his recruiting after Tuberville’s resignation, the first coach who called for the tight end's services was none other than Alabama’s Nick Saban.

Saban reportedly offered Lutzenkirchen a starting position if he would sign with the Crimson Tide.

Apparently, Nick’s sweet-talking ways did not move Lutzenkirchen enough to take that risk. Smart young man, he’ll have plenty of opportunities to get on the field next season under Gus Malzahn’s offense.

The focus of recruiting will be at three main positions of need, offensive line where the Tigers signed only one last year, wide receiver, and a “big time” quarterback. The current list of committed recruits is back to 20 thanks to Chizik and his staff’s salvaging efforts.

Auburn has five open slots to fill. That’s not to say Chizik will not attempt to sign more. Previously Auburn had 26 commitments before Tuberville's departure. However, the top 15 class as a whole was not highly regarded by some recruiting agencies.

If Chizik and his ultra recruiting staff are able to sign just one or two of the nation's best, Auburn will see there class ranking dramatically increase.

Does this equal wins on the field? No. But it sure helps with attracting some of the best athletes and build momentum toward the program's future.

Auburn is not totally talent-poor. With the starters simply needing to be developed and potential from others currently on the roster, filling the gaps will be the key with this recruiting class.

After careful evaluation, Chizik has jumped into full attack mode. He and his staff have begun recruiting other super recruits that the former staff was not recruiting. Why were they not? I have not a clue.

As previously mentioned, wide receiver Reuben Randle, running back Bryce Brown, wide receivers Kevin Norwood and Kendall Kelly as well as quarterback Tyrik Rollison, would make an excellent additions to the Tigers.

Does this mean Auburn can land these prize recruits? Well the mere fact that they are even considering Auburn this late in the game is a win in itself. Auburn has a lot to offer, more importantly too the recruit it’s an opportunity for playing time.

Chizik understands the situation he came into and what’s at stake. He also knows what the recruits are thinking about Auburn.

"These young guys are looking for opportunities," Chizik said. "They've always been very open-minded since the first day that I was on the job.

Regardless if Auburn signs all, one or none of the top-rated recruits, this weekend was a success for Auburn and Chizik. Something tells me Auburn will shock some folks come signing day.

Verbal Commitments: Noted with ESPN’s Top 150 rated by position

Nick Fairley, DT, 6-4, 295, Wesson, Miss. - JR College Signed
Eltoro Freeman, LB, 5-11, 218, Perkinston, Miss. – JR College Signed
Terrence Coleman, DT, 6-1, 244, Mobile #16 DE
Jonathan Evans, LB, 6-0, 205, Prichard #50 OLB
Donald Ford, LB, 6-2, 190, Odenville #35 DE
Harris Gaston, LB, 6-2, 210, Bessemer#41 OLB
Andre Harris, OL, 6-4, 327, Hampton, Ga.#189 OG
Brandon Heavens, ATH, 5-10, 165, Bessemer #25 WR
Brandon Jacobs, RB, 6-1, 230, Lilburn, Ga.#80 RB
Steven Jacques, OL, 6-4, 280, Hollywood, Fla.
LaVoyd James, WR, 5-10, 175, Mobile # 34 WR
Cameron Kenney, WR, 6-2, 195, Garden City, Kan.
Tyler Knight, OL, 6-4, 245, Leesburg, Ga.
Philip Lutzenkirchen, TE, 6-4, 245, Marietta, Ga. #5 TE
Onterio McCalebb, RB, 6-0, 175, Chatham, Va. (PG)
Aaron Moore, OL, 6-5, 255, Frisco, Texas #44 OT
LaDarius Perkins, RB, 5-9, 180, Greenville, Miss. #50 ATH
Jamontay Pilson, DT, 6-3, 265, Greenville #39 DE
Travonte Stallworth, WR, 5-10, 180, Leesville, La. #17 ATH
Reggie Taylor, DB, 5-10, 167, Fort Valley, Ga # 28 CB

Five of the Top ESPN 2009 Recruits Considering Auburn:

#1 WR Reuben Randle 6’3 195 Bastrop HS (LA)

#2 CB Greg Reid 5’9 175 Lowndes HS (GA)

#5 ILB Petey Smith 6’0 240 Armwood HS (FL) Brother of current Auburn RB Eric Smith

#7 WR Kendall Kelly 6’3 210 Gadsden HS (AL)

#9 OLB Tana Patrick 6’3 215 North Jackson HS (AL)

The First of Three Recruiting Weekends Successful At Auburn

Deric Winslett — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 14:37:02 -0500