re: Are the accusations about how Gus runs practice true?

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I've read from multiple sources over the years - usually non-Auburn fans - that Gus Malzahn's practice routine is to run as many plays on offense as possible. That it's less about taking time to break down the assignments and coach up technique and more so about getting the kids ready to run tempo.

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That is because it is blatantly false. Auburn's practices are divided into 14-24 5 minute "periods." Usually they start with 2 periods of ST, then 7-10 of position group periods. The first 2-3 periods of the position group periods is where Gus will do pace, where he will have a group out there running 4-8 plays as fast as possible to simulate a drive. After position group periods there will be another 2 periods of ST. After this the team splits into offense and defense and works on packages together. The final 2-4 periods of practice the offense and defense comes together and basically scrimmages.

Usually the position group stuff is where they work on technique and the unit stuff is where they implement the game plan. Sometimes tempo is stressed more but usually it is more about getting the scripted plays correct and everyone knowing their assignments. We spend an inordinate amount of time working on assignments.

The issue that we have is that play calling has been bad. When Rhett was calling plays last year the offense was moving a lot better than when Gus was. I think the issue is that Gus is trying to stay on the edge of creative with his play calling when in reality if he just stuck with what he was doing that got him here he would be fine.