quote:
1) Opponents will be able to rush the passer more than before.

Marshall's mobility really limited opposing pass rushes. So Johnson can run a little. He can't run like Marshall. DEs can run down a 4.55 guy (and a 4.55 guy in college is really a 4.7 guy in the combine). They typically can't run down a legit sub-4.5 guy like Marshall.

2) Auburn's offense will be more limited in what it can do.

Let's not underestimate the impact of Coates. The guy was a great deep threat and really stretched the field. This year, they'll rely on Duke Johnson, who is a great receiver but not the same kind of deep threat.

Factor in the loss of Artis-Payne and Auburn's lost their two most potent offense weapons on top of Marshall.

3) They will miss their role players.

While you may be right, I tend to doubt it. Dismukes hurts the most, but having Kozan back on the Oline will give us a physical push that was lacking last year.

Roc and Jovon can come in and take CAP's place at RB. I do not mean any disrespect towards CAP --- he did a great job, but we are still looking good at RB.

One of the things we missed most on offense last year was a guy like Prosch. We are looking much better in that regard this year and that can only help the offense.

Sammie will be missed, but there are WR waiting to make a play there ... if only that can start catching consistently it will be a lethal combo.

Our biggest concern is defense, but I doubt that can get any worse than last year.