Gus Malzahn Destined To Leave Auburn

Gus Malzahn has proven that he knows how to orchestrate a dynamic offense.  In 2007 Malzahn joined Tulsa as their offensive coordinator and quickly went to work. The Tulsa Golden Hurricanes' offense exploded and produce the nation's top offense in total yards per game.

After two successful years with the Golden Hurricanes Malzahn left for a chance to get back into the SEC. 

Auburn fans have overwhelmingly welcomed Malzahn with high hopes of seeing the Tiger's offense recover from a dismal 2008 season. However, I just don't see him being at Auburn for very long. Malzahn interviewed for the Arkansas head coaching position last year.

After many years of success as a high school head coach, Malzahn is chomping at the bit to prove his merit as a college head coach. 

Here are the two scenarios I see playing out for Malzahn at Auburn.

Scenario No. 1

If Auburn's offense improves to a non- embarrassing level, Malzahn will be offered a head coaching job somewhere. I believe that Malzahn will take the first head coaching opportunity that comes his way.

Scenario No. 2

Auburn's offense falls flat on its face this season...Auburn fans and boosters want improvement on offense and they have zero patience in waiting for those improvements. If Auburn fails to produce on offense in 2009, Malzahn will be let go.

Coach Chizik does not have the clout to ride out the storm and therefore will be force to make sweeping changes again on offense if 2009 doesn't meet expectations.


In both scenarios Malzahn leaves. As premature as it may sound, I wonder what direction Auburn's offense will head when Malzahn leaves. Will Curtis Luper or Trooper Taylor step up and continue running Malzhan's no-huddle hurry up offensive scheme.

Or will a new scheme be brought in with a new offensive coordinator? Gene Chizik would be wise to have a plan B ready.