Auburn Football: Breaking Down Tigers' Top Commits

Auburn may have had a miserable season in 2012, complete with the firing of Gene Chizik, but the good news for the Tigers is that they have picked up some top commits so far.

That includes three defensive players in the top 25 of the 2013 recruiting class, according to ESPN.

So, as you Auburn fans stew in the misery of a 3-9 campaign, here's a little something to make you smile.

Carl Lawson, DL

The No. 2 overall recruit (according to ESPN), Carl Lawson is the kind of outside pass-rusher loathed by opposing quarterbacks and running backs.

The 6'2", 251-pound defensive lineman has the explosion and burst to play at defensive end and the strength and build to potentially play in the interior of the line down the road.

He's also the kind of physical tackler who should fit in quite well in the SEC, with the ability to disrupt the run and close quickly on the ball carrier.

The Georgia native does need some work with his technique, and he'll be able to create more separation when that comes around, but he has the tools to be a dominant force in college.

Dee Liner, DL

No, that's not a misprint. This defensive lineman is called Dee Liner.

Like Lawson, Liner has the ability to move outside or stay inside on the line. The 6'3", 270-pound Alabama native has the height, size and build to hold his own in the SEC, and he has an explosive burst like Lawson. 

On line stunts, he's very dangerous given his quickness and ability to play low to the ground, and he has the speed and motor that should make him a favorite among Auburn fans.

He's also a disruptive force against the run with solid tackling ability and the strength to simply bull rush offensive lineman backward.

His biggest weakness is probably his hand usage, as he sometimes doesn't separate well enough and blockers can get in on him.

But, overall, Dee Liner could be a special player.

Reuben Foster, ILB

The No. 24 overall recruit and the best inside linebacker (according to ESPN), Reuben Foster could be a nightmare for opposing rushing attacks.

The 6'2", 242-pound Auburn native has the strength, size and toughness to instantly translate to the college level, and he's one of the best downhill stoppers and hardest hitters you'll see come out of the class.

He has good quickness, and he uses his arm length well to shed blockers. He also can blow through opposing offensive lines, and he rarely gives up yardage after contact. 

While he's not blazing fast or particularly fluid, he's athletic and he has great instincts, which allows him cover the football field well.

He can be a solid player right out of the gate for Auburn, which is what the Tigers need. With work on his coverage skills he could become an all-around athlete who can shadow running backs in man coverage.

Don't forget the name Reuben Foster.