Auburn Football Recruiting: Gene Chizik Must Beat Nick Saban for Eddie Goldman

The Alabama Crimson Tide are going to end up with a better recruiting class than the Auburn Tigers, but if Gene Chizik really wants to stick it to Nick Saban, then he has to make sure Eddie Goldman commits to him and not to Tuscaloosa. 

Currently, Alabama has the No. 1 recruiting class, whereas Auburn is ranked at No. 19. Landing Goldman can help push the Tigers into the Top 15, and getting other elite recruits might get them to leap into the Top 10.

A lot can happen over the next few weeks, but the most important thing for Chizik as National Signing Day approaches is to get Goldman. 

According to the Washington Post, Goldman's final schools are down to Alabama, Auburn and Florida State. 

While the Seminoles have a good chance, Goldman would have more success playing for Alabama or Auburn. As the No. 1 defensive tackle in the class of 2012, Goldman is sure to elevate into a big star, which is why he is so highly coveted. 

Listed at 6'4", 310 pounds, Goldman has the skills to be an immediate impact wherever he lands. He has a better opportunity for quick playing time at Auburn, which gives them the slight edge in my book. 

However, it's still up in the air as to where this talented defender goes, but Chizik has to do everything in his power to make sure he beats out Saban. 

The Tigers were ranked No. 78 in total defense, but the run defense was much worse, as it ranked at No. 98. Auburn needs to continue to bring in skilled defenders to match Alabama's always stout defense, which is why Chizik desperately needs Goldman. 

Chizik has done a great job recruiting since taking over at Auburn, and there is little to no doubt he will keep doing just that. However, losing out on elite recruits really hurts, especially if they're spurning you for your biggest rival. 

The Crimson Tide and the Tigers are all the state of Alabama has, and the intensity of the rivalry is absolutely insane. So when Chizik doesn't land the best of the best and Saban does, it definitely creates more heated discussions around the water cooler, local bars and even the playground. 

Alabama is crushing everyone in recruiting right now, which is even more of a reason Chizik needs to get Goldman. While Tigers' fans would be devastated to lose out on Goldman, they'd much prefer he pick Florida State over Alabama. 

The Tigers have a very strong shot at getting Goldman, but should he pick the Crimson Tide, Chizik will once again take a back seat in the state of Alabama to Saban, which is why he cannot afford to lose.