re: FPRC's 2014 Auburn Tigers Football Preview

Analysis of the Coaching Staff



All the major pieces of the 2013 staff will be back in Auburn's 2014 campaign. Head to toe, it has to be considered one of the best staffs in the SEC. Coach Malzahn has proven he can and will adjust his offense to fit his players, and his gameday play calling was some of the best last year. You're supposed to see the most improvement in a team during their 2nd season with a staff...hopefully that saying holds true

Offseason Report



Auburn has had a busy offseason...which is rarely a good thing. OL Alex Kozan injured his back and will be out for the entire season. DL Carl Lawson injured his knee and will be out for at least 1/3 of the season. QB Nick Marshall and DB Jonathon Mincy are out for an indefinite amount of time (part of the Arkansas game) for trying to minor in horticulture. Robenson Therezie's near future on the field is hazy at best. Other than that, it's been a fantastic offseason for the Tigers

Ticket to the Playoff



Auburn's biggest obstacle is probably their schedule. Navigating it unblemished seems very unlikely.

I see the OL as an area that will make or break Auburn. Replacing 2 members of last year's line is no easy task. If this new line gels well, Gus' offense will run smoothy. If the line isn't up to par, then Auburn will have to rely on their defense to keep them in the game. That's probably not what Auburn fans want.

This Barner's Opinion

I really don't know what to expect this season. That schedule would be tough on any team. I think 9-10 wins in the regular season is a reasonable expectation. If the cards fall right again, 11 wins is obtainable. If the Tigers can get to 11 wins and then win the SECCG, Auburn has to be in the playoffs.

I see no better ending to this preview than Takeo Spikes infamous WFE...so here y'all go