Tigers X - Number one Source to Talk Auburn Tigers Sports
Pat Dye Field => War Damn Eagle => Topic started by: djsimp on March 11, 2016, 02:09:23 PM
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- On JFIII
https://www.seccountry.com/auburn/auburn-coach-gus-malzahn-qb-john-franklin-iii-has-a-wow-factor
Auburn coach Gus Malzahn: QB John Franklin III has a ‘wow’ factor
Jordan James
SECcountry staff
There is an open battle for Auburn’s starting quarterback job, but there is no question about which candidate is the fastest.
John Franklin III.
“When he (Franklin III) takes off running, he has the wow factor,†Auburn coach Gus Malzahn told reporters Thursday.
The junior college transfer is competing with sophomore Sean White and junior Jeremy Johnson in spring practice. White and Johnson are ahead of the curve in terms of learning the offense, as both saw time as a starter last season. But neither Johnson nor White is wowing anyone with his speed like Franklin III has the ability to do.
“They’re all getting an opportunity,†Malzahn told reporters.
In his stints at Auburn, Malzahn has had the most success running his offense with quarterbacks who pose a threat to run and throw the football. Nick Marshall and Cam Newton fit that criteria and both led Auburn to national championship appearances.
It is likely too much to ask of Franklin III to reach those heights, especially in his first season with the team. But if White or Johnson don’t run away with the job, Franklin III could see playing time and potentially add a change of pace in certain packages.
“I’ve been really impressed with his (Franklin’s) approach,†Malzahn said.
- On the atmosphere after a suck ass season
http://www.auburntigers.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/031116aaa.html
'IT FEELS DIFFERENT': AUBURN LIKES ATMOSPHERE THIS SPRING
By Charles Goldberg
AuburnTigers.com
AUBURN, Ala. ― Auburn is heading off to spring break feeling pretty good about the attitude and atmosphere surrounding the first phase of spring football practice.
"Honestly, it feels different," says center Austin Golson. "It feels like back when I was in high school, the year that we won the state championship with the energy. People flying around and having confidence in what we're doing.
"I've really enjoyed practice. I don't think anybody is dreading practice. Last year, I remember that we had some guys: 'Man, I can't wait until spring break.' Today, we were like: 'Man, I can't wait to get out there and practice and then we can worry about spring break.' I think that means a lot. I really like where we are."
He isn't alone. Fullback Chandler Cox says "there is definitely a different feeling out there. It's a good feeling. When something changes in the air, you feel it."
That's from the offense. It's apparently the same on defense.
"A lot more energy and a lot more leadership," said defensive end Carl Lawson.
Gus Malzahn talked up his quarterbacks, too.
Golson, Lawson and the rest of the Tigers practiced Thursday and then headed off for an 11-day spring break. They'll come back for more intense practices after spending these first five days of spring work laying the foundation, as coach Gus Malzahn put it, for the weeks ahead.
Golson started most of the games at center last year after playing guard at Ole Miss in 2013. The competition for the starting assignment again will be between Golson and Xavier Dampeer in an offense that will have at least three new starting lineman after the departure of fixtures Shon Coleman and Avery Young, new starting receivers and perhaps a new quarterback.
Golson also has a new position coach in Herb Hand. Still, Golson said he feels more comfortable at center this year.
"I wouldn't say 'easier,' but I'm starting to get the feel at center. I do have a year under my belt," he said. "I've got some experience; this will be my third year playing in the SEC. I feel really good with where I'm at. I've got to keep getting better. I've got to keep being versatile and keep pushing to improve each and every day."
Golson said Hand "brings something new to the table. He's very energetic. He's funny, he's a hard worker. You can tell that he loves his job and I really appreciate that. I don't want anybody coaching me who doesn't love their job."
https://www.facebook.com/AuburnTigers/videos/10153996150454894/
https://youtu.be/gLFCHUKsKPk
- And certainly the RBs:
http://www.saturdaydownsouth.com/auburn-football/two-rbs-splitting-carries-at-auburn/
Two running backs splitting first-team carries at Auburn
TYLER WADDELL
The race to replace Peyton Barber is well underway at Auburn, but as of Friday, coach Gus Malzahn is taking a by-committee approach between rising senior Jovon Robinson and junior Roc Thomas.
“(Robinson) and Roc are getting a lot of carries with that first group,†Malzahn told AL.com following Thursday’s spring practice.
In 2015, Barber — who declared early for the 2016 NFL Draft — took 238 carries for 1,017 yards (4.3 ypc) and 13 touchdowns. Robinson returns after producing the team’s second-highest output of 639 yards and three scores, while Thomas added an additional 261 yards and a TD to boot.
Robinson broke out with a 27-carry, 126-yard performance against Memphis in the Birmingham Bowl and arguably has the best shot to receive the most workload this upcoming season.
“Jovon looks amazing right now,†H-back Kamryn Pettway said. “I know there are some things we all still have to work on, but he looks real good. I think the big game in the Birmingham Bowl gave him a lot of confidence and momentum going into the spring and next season.
“Roc’s looked good also,†Pettway said. “With Peyton leaving I think everybody has another step up we have to make. Roc’s looked good too.â€
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In other sad news:
I keep reading that JJ is working with the ones and SW with the twos...
By God, they will make a QB out of him yet!
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In other sad news:
I keep reading that JJ is working with the ones and SW with the twos...
By God, they will make a QB out of him yet!
Saw that too but I'm betting JFIII starts against Clemson. The coaches aren't just gonna hand over the keys so easily after last years debacle. I wouldn't think so anyway.
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Auburn coach Gus Malzahn: QB John Franklin III has a ‘wow’ factor
This is the same guy that said JJ would start for most other SEC teams. His coach speak is tiring. :facepalm:
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Auburn coach Gus Malzahn: QB John Franklin III has a ‘wow’ factor
This is the same guy that said JJ would start for most other SEC teams. His coach speak is tiring. :facepalm:
Just hush. This is a "wow" factor. JJ had the "It" factor. They are totally different. Shut your pie hole.
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Just hush. This is a "wow" factor. JJ had the "It" factor. They are totally different. Shut your pie hole.
JJWow? JJIt? JFWow?
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JJWow? JJIt? JFWow?
Jrunforhislife.
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Wish I could find the article again, but I had read where one of the defensive guys was speaking on the energetic atmosphere. He went on to compare how much they were learning and responding much better this year versus last, without all the screaming. Sounds like a small shot fired in Muschamps direction.
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Wish I could find the article again, but I had read where one of the defensive guys was speaking on the energetic atmosphere. He went on to compare how much they were learning and responding much better this year versus last, without all the screaming. Sounds like a small shot fired in Muschamps direction.
I recall reading something like that too. I imagine most of them (Defensive guys) are feeling after last season, "Well, the in-your-face, 24/7 Hulk mode didn't work. Time to have some fun".
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JJWow? JJIt? JFWow?
JJFad sounds Supersonic
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I recall reading something like that too. I imagine most of them (Defensive guys) are feeling after last season, "Well, the in-your-face, 24/7 Hulk mode didn't work. Time to have some fun".
I am hoping the term fun means blowing shit up like a mean mofo. I can't help but think that AU will have a badassery type DL for 2016.
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JJFad sounds Supersonic
JJFad? I like.
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https://youtu.be/JRenH8WTTFQ
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A 4.37 40 is definitely Wow.
I like how the article said "It is likely too much to ask of Franklin III to reach those heights, especially in his first season with the team."
Apparently the author didn't realize that Cam Newton & Nick Marshall were in their first season with the team when they both reached the National Championship game.
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I don't give a frippity flip who plays QB as long as they get the job done. If it turns out to be Clifford Franklin, then get on witcha bad ass self. But until I see this kid hold up as an every down QB in the SEC, I'm still going to be skeptical of anyone under 175 pounds playing that position. I'm sure he's shitchapantsfast with that JWow factor in the Spring when no one is jacking his jaw.
Here's an evaluation from Trackem' Tigers. I realize this is just a blog but it seems to be a realistic and fair breakdown of the positives and negatives. Although, the 6'2" 200 part made me immediately question the validity of it. However, I've seen Franklin listed at 200 on more than one site. Anywho....
Auburn secured the commitment of John Franklin, III on November 4th, but the number-one JUCO dual-threat quarterback won’t enroll until January, thus missing critical bowl game practices. As a dual-threat guy, could he be the answer for Auburn next season?
The 6′-2″ 200 lb. QB was second string at East Mississippi Community College where he passed for 733 yards with seven touchdowns while rushing for 451 yards and nine touchdowns.
The Lions dominated almost every opponent while averaging 57 points per game and were held under 40 points only one time. Though he is rated the No.1 JUCO dual-threat QB, there are some important bits of info that are typically left off his résumé.
His 17 TDs, while impressive, were not a factor in the Lion’s overall record. Much of his work came when the game was well decided, an important aspect no one has mentioned.
He is coached by former FSU and West Va. QB, Clint Trickett, who had this to say about Franklin: “He’s one of the faster human beings I’ve ever been around. His straight-line speed is, and I hate when people say it, but it’s almost world class… He also has one of the stronger arms I’ve ever been around. The revolutions that come off the ball when he throws are literally insane.â€
That’s impressive to say the least. But let’s take our own look.
I will be referencing Franklin’s 17 minute highlight video from Hudl. Almost every play we see has the offense in a five-wide set with the defense sending at least one linebacker on a blitz. This open formation in combination with the constant blitzes was perfect for Franklin to showcase his running ability. However, this will not happen in the SEC.
Ball security will be a major factor with Franklin. Look no further than the featured image on this post. He has zero ball security or awareness, and there isn’t a run in the highlight that doesn’t show him palming the ball away from his body. The Auburn staff will almost certainly address this habit on day one.
As Trickett pointed out, Franklin is fast, but he is not world class. It is evident in his highlights that he is shifty and has great speed, but he wasn’t the fastest player on the field. When in the open and untouched, he is lightning. When in traffic, or being unable to come out of a cut cleanly, he can be caught.
However, at the 3:15 mark of the video, one can see he has good patience as he waits for lanes to open, and then he follows his blockers. This leads to easy TDs where he is barely touched. He also has a nose for the first-down marker. On more than two occasions, he knows exactly where the sticks are, and he does just enough to get to them. An underrated aspect of his game is that he bounces outside to protect himself, although he will take hits when it’s needed.
His improvisation is very good, although at times he shows a tendency to throw across his body while fading away from the play. This can be seen in plays at the 2:05 and 5:40 mark. He has the arm strength to complete these, but it isn’t something that coaches like to see. On several occasions, he makes some “backyard football†plays where he finds the open man after scrambling. While he does keep his eyes downfield, he will not get those open looks in the SEC.
Only on one play do I see him make a checkdown to a second receiver. On one of the first plays in the video, you will actually see him miss an open secondary receiver before one of these backyard football plays. The play resulted in a first down, but he missed a touchdown.
Franklin also has a tendency to throw with his hips too open. It prohibits him from really driving the ball with his legs. However, his front foot placement is almost always on target. Slight work on his core, specifically his hips, will greatly improve his accuracy.
Franklin shows great awareness at times by stepping into the pocket and away from edge blitzes, but on some plays, he fades away from the play, relying on speed to run out of the pressure or on arm strength to throw. While this is troubling, it shows that he at least knows what he needs to do in such situations.
Currently, Franklin has only two throws: the out and the deep pass. Both of these he does incredibly well. He struggles on timing routes such as slants. On two different plays, he waited until the receiver was out of the break and still threw it behind the player, although he can hit those windows. He has a picture perfect play at the 4:40 mark where he delivers a great window throw down the field.
This all indicates that Franklin, with some situational awareness work and slight improvement on mechanics, would be a QB with the ability to throw the ball as hard and as far as he needs. A look at a play at the 1:30 mark shows what Franklin is capable of doing. Efficient footwork, proper foot placement, snapping his hips around and keeping them closed gives him the chance to excel by making every throw in the book. There is no denying his situational awareness. He is a playmaker who has a nose for the markers.
Most everyone agrees that Auburn has to get back to the Nick Marshall-esq type of athlete who can run the zone read, be able to drive the ball down the field, and have elusiveness in the pocket in order to give WRs the chance to get open.
Is Franklin that guy?
It’s hard to tell, as this video shows him playing in garbage time against tired defenses blitzing almost 100% of the time. But, he has the arm strength that we saw from Nick Marshall. There is no place on the field where Franklin can’t deliver the ball. All things considered, his mechanics are better than Marshall’s at this point in his development, and the improvements that need to be made are easier to correct.
One thing for sure, if Auburn is to go back to the zone read, Franklin is closer to that type of QB than either Sean White or Jeremy Johnson.
- See more at: http://trackemtigers.com/what-auburn-can-expect-from-franklin-iii-a-scouting-report/#sthash.jPyk5lSB.dpuf
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Second string at juco.
:facepalm:
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This whole setup for AU football seems strangely familiar to the 2003, 2004 seasons. Auburn was picked to do very well in 2003 but flopped. Campbell suck, lots of skill position injuries, etc. 2004 nobody was looking at Auburn, the lights magically came on for Campbell, all the skill position guys were consistent and stayed healthy. Are we in history repeat mode? I mean about it. From the QB the both OL and DL, the RBs, the new WRs to compliment the vets. While the backend of the defense is suspect, I see an interesting parallel here.
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This whole setup for AU football seems strangely familiar to the 2003, 2004 seasons. Auburn was picked to do very well in 2003 but flopped. Campbell suck, lots of skill position injuries, etc. 2004 nobody was looking at Auburn, the lights magically came on for Campbell, all the skill position guys were consistent and stayed healthy. Are we in history repeat mode? I mean about it. From the QB the both OL and DL, the RBs, the new WRs to compliment the vets. While the backend of the defense is suspect, I see an interesting parallel here.
If you want to keep working here, stay off the drugs.
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If you want to keep working here, stay off the drugs.
Well that sticky green is some good shit.
Not trying to say Auburn goes undefeated in 2016, just there are a lot of similarities as it stands with personnel and the previous seasons outcome and that seasons expectations.
If AU does go undefeated in 2017, I will drive down and in person deliver a care package just for you wes.
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If you want to keep working here, stay off the drugs.
2004 was a most ripping victory
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Pretty good read. Also, Snag it was Carl Lawson who said that about Muschamps scream coaching.
http://auburn.247sports.com/Article/PMARSHONAU-Has-the-time-finally-come-for-Auburns-defense-44198162
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2003 = Nallsminger
2004 = Al Borges
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2003 = Nallsminger
2004 = Al Borges
Format = knows
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2003 = Jimmies
2004 = Joes
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Currently, Franklin has only two throws: the out and the deep pass. Both of these he does incredibly well. He struggles on timing routes such as slants.
Shiiiit Negro, this is all you had to say. We got this now.
Jovon up the middle on 1st, Jovon off tackle on 2nd, Deep bomb downfield on 3rd. #championship!
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Shiiiit Negro, this is all you had to say. We got this now.
Jovon up the middle on 1st, Jovon off tackle on 2nd, Deep bomb downfield on 3rd. #championship!
Thats a great plan for the first half of games, but what do we do when Gus benches Jovon in the second half?
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Thats a great plan for the first half of games, but what do we do when Gus benches Jovon in the second half?
We have a new second half offense that Gus plans to unveil this season. It is called the second half offense. It will be spectacular. This offense is specifically designed for the second half, which means that it should never be used in the first half.
He is a genius.
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Thats a great plan for the first half of games, but what do we do when Gus benches Jovon in the second half?
Chandler Cox lines up at the Wildcat spot. He takes the snap, he runs right. Loss of two.
Jeremy Johnson comes back in at QB. He takes the snap, runs up the gut...gain of 3.
JFIII comes in at QB. He takes the snap, drops back. It's the statue of Liberty fake. He heaves the ball 50 yards downfield. Incomplete.
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Chandler Cox lines up at the Wildcat spot. He takes the snap, he runs right. Loss of two.
Jeremy Johnson comes back in at QB. He takes the snap, runs up the gut...gain of 3.
JFIII comes in at QB. He takes the snap, drops back. It's the statue of Liberty fake. He heaves the ball 50 yards downfield. Incomplete.
He's seen the future.
A WITCH!!!!!
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Chandler Cox lines up at the Wildcat spot. He takes the snap, he runs right. Loss of two.
Jeremy Johnson comes back in at QB. He takes the snap, runs up the gut...gain of 3.
JFIII comes in at QB. He takes the snap, drops back. It's the statue of Liberty fake. He heaves the ball 50 yards downfield. Incomplete.
Why not bring JJ in on the 3rd down play, It will save us having to punt on 4th down.
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Why not bring JJ in on the 3rd down play, It will save us having to punt on 4th down.
Dammit! You found the 4th quarter handbook.
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He's seen the future.
A WITCH!!!!!
BURN HIM!
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http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/sports/college/sec/auburn-university/war-eagle-extra/article66462627.html
War Eagle Extra Mailbag: John Franklin III, offensive struggles and the depth chart
BY MICHAEL NIZIOLEK
AUBURN
Two weeks of spring practice are in the books for Auburn. The team will get a nice 11 day break before returning to the field on March 22 for 10 more practices including A-Day.
Time to open the mailbag and answer some reader questions:
Q: How quickly is JF3 getting acquainted with the playbook? Could auburn potentially have a Heisman dark horse in Jovon Robinson? (@anderdw88)
Answer — Gus Malzahn talked about the first part of Dean’s question on Thursday crediting John Franklin III for doing a nice job learning Auburn’s offense. Franklin’s focus during the team’s first five practices has been getting his timing down.
Offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee has yet to meet with the media this spring to offer his perspective on the junior college transfer.
Auburn opened a portion of two practices, but much of the viewing window is limited to watching players go through individual drills and stretching. It’s easy to see Franklin is the kind of highly touted athlete everyone expected, but it’s hard to say how comfortable he is running the offense just yet.
As for Jovon Robinson, I think it would be a stretch to see him a Heisman candidate. The coaching staff seems reluctant to still make him the team’s No. 1 back even with the way he finished the season last year. It’s hard to see Robinson getting the kind of work load Derrick Henry did last year for Alabama.
Q: Will Paul James III be starting or getting a lot of reps at the LB or the DE position? (@joshknox31)
Answer — James missed Auburn’s first three practices of the spring with a minor leg injury. The junior college transfer out of Copiah-Lincoln had 14 sacks as one of the team’s defensive ends.
The coaching staff hasn’t addressed James’ position specifically, but didn’t mention the 6-foot-4, 258-pounder when discussing the team’s lack of depth at linebacker. Auburn wants pass rushers up front and James fits the bill.
Q: Did Raashed Kennion get moved to outside linebacker? (@hairyhipey)
Answer — Former Auburn defensive coordinator Will Muschamp used Kennion at the Buck position, a hybrid end that functions in certain plays as an outside linebacker.
Kennion was at linebacker Tuesday during the open viewing window Tuesday with the first team during 11 on 11 two-minute type drills.
Q: Who do you think has the better chance to come in immediately and make an impact: Nate-Craig or Kyle Davis? (@blake_benson38)
Answer — The easy answer would by Davis. The early enrollee is already on campus going through spring practice and that gives him an advantage over the equally-talented Nate-Craig Myers.
Davis is still recovering from a shoulder injury, so he’s worn an orange no-contact jersey through Auburn’s five practices this spring, but he’s still taking reps and learning the offense.
Both will get the chance to play, but as long as Davis’ shoulder heals up quickly he has the inside track.
Q: Auburn seems to have gotten away from its hurry up offense. How do they change that?
Answer — Auburn coach Gus Malzahn has talked about this multiple times this spring. He wants to make tempo a priority with the way the team practices. Malzahn has also discussed tweaking the offense — he used substitutions as an example — to speed up the Tigers’ pace of play.
The fall off from two years ago in terms of number of plays isn’t as significant as you would think (only four plays), but Auburn’s general lack of rhythm offensively made their slower pace more pronounced.
Q: When are we going to start going after taller and bigger running backs? (@vinesdonald1)
Answer — I don’t think the size of Auburn’s running backs is much of an issue. Malzahn had success with Cameron Artis-Payne (5-foot-11, 210-pounds) and Tre Mason (5-foot-10, 205-pounds) who both had similar builds to current players Roc Thomas (5-foot-10, 203-pounds) and Kerryon Johnson (6-foot-0, 195-pounds). Jovon Robinson also has plenty of size on him measuring in at 6-foot-0, 230 pounds.
Q: Would this starting lineup work Franklin (QB), Robinson (RB), Davis and Craig-Myers (WR), Roc Thomas and Jason Smith (Slot)? How could you not score? (@kaveouspreston)
Answer — Roc Thomas isn’t moving to the slot with Peyton Barber going into the draft. Cold we see the rest of that group line up together? It’s possible. With so much time until Auburn kicks off against Clemson on Sept. 3, the guessing game related to the lineup will continue for months to come.
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I'm with whoever submitted the 6th question. I have been screaming for taller running backs for I don't know how long. Damn it, if Malzahn would get his head out of his ass, he'd realize a couple of 6'7" running backs are what this team needs to get over the hump. Why doesn't he see this?
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I'm with whoever submitted the 6th question. I have been screaming for taller running backs for I don't know how long. Damn it, if Malzahn would get his head out of his ass, he'd realize a couple of 6'7" running backs are what this team needs to get over the hump. Why doesn't he see this?
People in the lower rows couldn't see over their heads as they stayed on the sidelines?
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I'm with whoever submitted the 6th question. I have been screaming for taller running backs for I don't know how long. Damn it, if Malzahn would get his head out of his ass, he'd realize a couple of 6'7" running backs are what this team needs to get over the hump. Why doesn't he see this?
The 6'7" guys don't practice well.
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The 6'7" guys don't practice well.
I thought the taller guys practiced very well, just in games their brains go out their asses?
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I thought the taller guys practiced very well, just in games their brains go out their asses?
Not so. They just get moved to TE and no one ever hears from them again until they announce their transfer!
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CAREER -- Ranks first in touchdowns by a tight end in Auburn history with 14 ... Holds AU single-season record for touchdowns by a tight end with seven (2011) ... Three career game-winning touchdowns (South Carolina - 2010/11, Alabama -2010)
This is a bit from the book of Lutzy. He played from 2009 to 2012 but 12' was what it was...God awful...and he was hurt, so most of his numbers came under Malzahn. So, the question is what has changed? Was he just that much better than anything we've had since then? So much so that they don't even try to use a TE in the offense now?
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CAREER -- Ranks first in touchdowns by a tight end in Auburn history with 14 ... Holds AU single-season record for touchdowns by a tight end with seven (2011) ... Three career game-winning touchdowns (South Carolina - 2010/11, Alabama -2010)
This is a bit from the book of Lutzy. He played from 2009 to 2012 but 12' was what it was...God awful...and he was hurt, so most of his numbers came under Malzahn. So, the question is what has changed? Was he just that much better than anything we've had since then? So much so that they don't even try to use a TE in the offense now?
For whatever reason I don't think Uzomah was given many chances, He had some big catches (Miss state) and he was a big body. One of the many $64 million dollar question that has us pondering about Gus/Rhett monster.
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In AU history, how many TEs started 4 years?
We always had really good TEs backing up really good TEs.
I would put Shine up against Lutz any day. Different type of TEs though!
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Andy Fuller says hello as does Fred Baxter and Robert Johnson.
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Andy Fuller says hello as does Fred Baxter and Robert Johnson.
Lorenzo Diamond's woman will put a bullet in yo ass.
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Lorenzo Diamond's woman will put a bullet in yo ass.
That would be a bullet in yo tight end. Mmmm...
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That would be a bullet in yo tight end. Mmmm...
Not to put too fine a point on it
Say I'm the only bee in your bonnet...
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https://youtu.be/CMv9QH2p77U
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Saw where Brodarious Hamm has cancer.
Dammit.
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So, #16 is so good he doesn't even need a center. Heisman!
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Saw where Brodarious Hamm has cancer.
Dammit.
Peace to him and his fam. Too many young people getting the C these days. What is it? Powerlines?
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Peace to him and his fam. Too many young people getting the C these days. What is it? Powerlines?
To save some money JJ had the new Indoor practice facility built on an Old Indian burial ground.
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http://www.scout.com/college/auburn/story/1654450-dean-making-an-impact-in-auburn-secondary
Big Cornerback Jamel Dean Is A Player That Has Impressed His Auburn Coaches And Teammates This Spring
JASON CALDWELL
Transferring in from Ohio State, Jamel Dean's progress gives the Tigers another physical cornerback heading into the 2016 season.
Auburn, Ala.--Impressive last season when he manned the scout team secondary for the Auburn Tigers while sitting out after transferring in from Ohio State as a freshman, big cornerback Jamel Dean has picked up where he left off this spring and so far has been one of the bright spots for the Tigers spring football practice.
With returning starter Carlton Davis expected to be one of the best players at his position in the Southeastern Conference, new secondary Coach Wesley McGriff is looking for someone to step up on the other side and right now Dean is locked in a battle to earn that spot. With guys like Javaris Davis, walk-on Mike Sherwood and true freshman John Broussard also seeing action there, Coach Gus Malzahn said so far Dean has shown he has got the ability to be a big-time player for the Tigers.
“He has a lot of talent,†Malzahn said. “He can run. He' i a physical guy. He really caught our attention in bowl practice when we did some scrimmaging and he's carried it over into spring. Coach McGriff, I know is pleased with him right now. He's a young guy, he's still learning but his attitude is good and he's got a lot of talent.â€
A player who dealt with a pair of knee injuries at Cocoa, Fla., High School, Dean enrolled at Ohio State last January, but the Buckeyes never cleared him medically to play and instead wanted him to take a medical hardship redshirt scholarship. That would have ended Dean’s playing career before it began.
Instead he decided to look elsewhere for a home and found that at Auburn. Getting being cleared medically by Dr. James Andrews early last summer he was already running and looking good physically when he arrived on campus. Malzahn said the Tigers researched everything with Dean and decided he was going to be good to go, something that ended up being true.
“You do your homework on him and you make a decision,†Malzahn said. “We felt great about him. He’s been very good since he’s been here. He’s got a chance to be a great player.â€
Now Dean is part of a secondary that should be one of the strengths for the Auburn defense heading into the 2016 season. Getting veterans Josh Holsey and T.J. Davis back from knee injuries that kept them out all of last season, having the very productive Rudy Ford capable of playing either safety or nickel while also having a group of safeties such as Stephen Roberts, Nick Ruffin and Tray Matthews to work with Auburn’s group has a chance to be productive.
When you factor all that in with Carlton Davis on one side and potentially Dean on the other, Ruffin said it’s fun to think about the possibilities.
“He’s good,†Ruffin said of Dean. “He is looking very good. He’s a very physical corner. He’s long, lanky, much like Carlton. Having guys with that kind of size, physicality and length is not something every school has the luxury of. It should definitely play into our favor.â€
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http://www.auburntigers.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/032316aaa.html
AUBURN'S TONY STEVENS HEADING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION
By Charles Goldberg
AuburnTigers.com
AUBURN, Ala. -- Kodi Burns bought in when he moved from an Auburn quarterback to an Auburn wide receiver on the way to the 2010 national championship.
Now, Auburn's newest coach is teaching a new era of Auburn wide receivers to follow his lead, to catch passes, sure, like he did in the national title game; but also to block down field, like he did on any given Saturday.
Tony Stevens says he sees an opportunity by following Burns' advice in spring practice.
"He's out there like he's one of us. He's really hands-on," Stevens said. "He shows it, and then we do it. He does receiver drills that I've never done before, ball drills on the floor and even before practice he's out there coming up to us one-on-one and doing drills with us. I think it's going to be a big help."
Burns is only 5½ years removed from his last college season. Stevens figures he better listen.
"He brings the energy," Stevens said. "He makes us be physical. I think that's what he's coaching -- that's his main focus right now."
Being physical could be Stevens' ticket at a position where opportunities exist. The Tigers must replace Ricardo Louis and Melvin Ray. Stevens, now a senior, is the second-leading returning receiver to Marcus Davis. Davis had 40 catches last season. Stevens had 14 catches for 159 yards.
He says he's ready to add on.
"You never know when you're time is going to come," he said. "So every time in practice I always practice like 'I'm going get ready to play.' I feel like I'm ready. Since last year, like the perfect moment, like Kentucky -- my first game out there -- I was ready because I was prepared for it. Now I'm preparing for Clemson."
The 6-foot-4, 205-pound Stevens says one of his strengths is his size. And, "people don't think I'm fast, but once I get up on you, you'll see how fast I am. I think one of my weaknesses is probably me being a leader. I have to be more vocal out there. I know for a fact from last year to now that people been looking up to me, so I have to be more vocal."
Stevens is on the receiving end of a quarterback race that features Sean White and Jeremy Johnson, both of whom started last season; and newcomer and junior college transfer John Franklin III. Stevens said each has a "tremendous arm."
"All of them can get it down the field 60 yards plus. All of them are accurate," Stevens said. "I throw with all of them in the offseason. They're all leaders, they all want to win, and competition brings out the best in people, so I see the best in them."
Stevens said Franklin has reminded him of Nick Marshall in Auburn's first six spring practices.
"I see a lot of similarities. Their quickness, their shifty-ness, their speed obviously to get outside, the arm strength - they both have the same arm strength," Stevens said.
"He's a leader. As soon as he got here he texted all the receivers 'let's get it, let's go throw on his own time.' Usually the receivers will text the quarterbacks 'let's go throw.' He texted us and wanted to be there, what he wanted to do and how he wanted it. He's pretty much a leader in my eyes. On the field, you can see he's having fun out there. He's already at home."
Stevens said he was surprised that Franklin rounded up the receivers so quickly.
"He got us in a group message and I was like, 'How did he get all of our numbers?'"
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Andy Fuller says hello as does Fred Baxter and Robert Johnson.
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Shitty effort at name dropping.
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shootty effort at name dropping.
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do you have an inherent need to prove what a prick you are?
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do you have an inherent need to prove what a prick you are?
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Shitty attempt at skin thickening.
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do you have an inherent need to prove what a prick you are?
nonsense, he's a tremendous prick
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do you have an inherent need to prove what a prick you are?
He doesn't have to prove anything about being a prick to me.
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http://teamstre.am/1UVAFUE
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https://youtu.be/5lKFeGpgteY
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JJ6 for Heisman!
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JJ6 for Heisman!
I thought he was changing his number?
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I thought he was changing his number?
It won't matter. They'll still try to make us believe!
I've seen enough!
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JJ6 for Heisman!
We can't win the 'ship w/o a Heisman.
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I thought we had run you off due to your left-wing leaning political views.
Who said you could come back?
Don't be silly. You mfers just boring.
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Don't be silly. You mfers just boring.
Just like our offense last year.
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Don't be silly. You mfers just boring.
Just like our offense last year.
That's an insult to "boring".
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That's an insult to "boring".
This is the year we put a creative offense on the field to compliment a suffocating D. All part of the master plan and you heard it here first. Now where's my trophy?
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JFIII at QB...10-3 with a win in a big bowl game.
JJ at QB...Head coaching search at the end of the season.
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JFIII at QB...10-3 with a win in a big bowl game.
JJ at QB...Head coaching search at the end of the season.
Option 3: Neither one takes the majority of snaps this year.
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JFIII at QB...10-3 with a win in a big bowl game.
JJ at QB...Head coaching search at the end of the season.
I cannot decide if you know less about democracy or football.
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Option 3: Neither one takes the majority of snaps this year.
Word on my skreetz is Sean White is not doing well in practices. Those might be the only options this year...
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Word on my skreetz is Sean White is not doing well in practices. Those might be the only options this year...
No worries, our crack QB coach will bring him around.
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I cannot decide if you know less about democracy or football.
I would vote for you over Trump and he knows zilch about football so there!
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Word on my skreetz is Sean White is not doing well in practices. Those might be the only options this year...
I've seen enough of SW in games to be OK with him having a bad spring.
I've see enough of JJ# in games to know that it doesn't matter what kind of spring he has.
So I would be OK with SW and JF3 sharing time.
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I've seen enough of SW in games to be OK with him having a bad spring.
I've see enough of JJ# in games to know that it doesn't matter what kind of spring he has.
So I would be OK with SW and JF3 sharing time.
This is very true. Is there any chance the freshman starts? Hell, why not if all the QBs are going to be making freshman mistakes?
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BTW I wouldn't rule out Hey Queeeeeen, either.
I have seen him play and boy gotz skillz, and fucker is a hard runner.
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BTW I wouldn't rule out Hey Queeeeeen, either.
I have seen him play and boy gotz skillz, and fucker is a hard runner.
He's been an afterthought but I'm pulling for him because I have little confidence in others.
White: gutsy and serviceable but slow, short and no touch.
JFIII looks too small to take the hits.
JJ? Srsly?
It's queen or Woody for me.
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He's been an afterthought but I'm pulling for him because I have little confidence in others.
White: gutsy and serviceable but slow, short and no touch.
JFIII looks too small to take the hits.
JJ? Srsly?
It's queen or Woody for me.
Yeah Queen! Why not...the fucker's have failed on the others.
White is all about touch. Fast enough to win if we could call plays. Open your eyes.
JFIII-wait and see mode...maybe he's the threat to throw that puts our other "wildcat" on the field for a mismatch.
JJ- he could recover from the yips and surprise us. Unlikely but possible.
Bite me!
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He's been an afterthought but I'm pulling for him because I have little confidence in others.
White: gutsy and serviceable but slow, short and no touch.
JFIII looks too small to take the hits.
JJ? Srsly?
It's queen or Woody for me.
Doesn't the first one get you the second one?
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Yeah Queen! Why not...the fucker's have failed on the others.
White is all about touch. Fast enough to win if we could call plays. Open your eyes.
JFIII-wait and see mode...maybe he's the threat to throw that puts our other "wildcat" on the field for a mismatch.
JJ- he could recover from the yips and surprise us. Unlikely but possible.
Bite me!
Dude. You really should just stick to talking politics with the left wing gay guys. Let me handle the football decisions.
You didn't do shit to help the team last year and all you ever want to do is move people to play defense. It can be a third team OG and you want to try him at db. Your consulting sucks.
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Dude. You really should just stick to talking politics with the left wing gay guys. Let me handle the football decisions.
You didn't do shit to help the team last year and all you ever want to do is move people to play defense. It can be a third team OG and you want to try him at db. Your consulting sucks.
Just want our best skilled guys against the other teams best. Plus I want ours to have a chance to develop in the position that allows them to continue playing football after Auburn as in the case of Kerryon. You need to lean on our geniuses and make them produce some offense like they were hired to do.
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Just want our best skilled guys against the other teams best. Plus I want ours to have a chance to develop in the position that allows them to continue playing football after Auburn as in the case of Kerryon. You need to lean on our geniuses and make them produce some offense like they were hired to do.
Our genius better find someone who can recruit and develop QBs AND someone to put a half assed defense on the field. If not, he won't be our genius for much longer.
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Our genius better find someone who can recruit and develop QBs AND someone to put a half assed defense on the field. If not, he won't be our genius for much longer.
Door = nailed shut
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Warning...BIL story to follow.
He hit practice last week during a coaches clinic. Quick bullet points.
*Sean White ran the first team O all day. Clifford Franklin VII was with the 3's. A little bigger than he thought. Damn quick.
^ Tony Stevens looked damn good and is easily the best out there right now. Tall, fast and intense. Kyle Davis still in non-contact jersey but it's clear the guy is a physical freak.
% Marlon Davidson ran with the 1's on D a lot. He and Paul James look to 1A and 1B. Said Davidson has obviously been putting in the work in the gym.
$ Two Avious' were blowing shit up inside. Especially Dontavious Russell. May be a special year for him. Prince Wooga Booga Tenaho Moga is a scary looking athlete but still very mechanical and learning the game. Coaches said he'll be bad ass when he can quit thinking so much and just let it go.
+ Kevin Steele talked to them a lot and was surprisingly open about everything, especially his time at LSU. Said no doubt Miles was gone and they were just about set to announce Jimbo Fisher til somebody stepped in. But first sign of trouble or a sub par season and he gone..sharpish.
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https://www.seccountry.com/auburn/gus-malzahn-impressed-with-quarterback-john-franklin-iii
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https://www.seccountry.com/auburn/gus-malzahn-impressed-with-quarterback-john-franklin-iii
This makes me feel better. Especially with how right he was about Keihl Frazier and Jeremy Johnson.
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This makes me feel better. Especially with how right he was about Keihl Frazier and Jeremy Johnson.
Thanks. Another sunshine pumping post from Captain Positive.
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Thanks. Another sunshine pumping post from Captain Positive.
He obviously didn't get the memo.
JFIII at QB...10-3 with a win in a big bowl game.
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http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/sports/college/sec/auburn-university/war-eagle-extra/article69619542.html
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http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/sports/college/sec/auburn-university/war-eagle-extra/article69619542.html
I will streak to midfield at the last home game if this team averages giving up 14 or less a game this season.
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I will streak to midfield at the last home game if this team averages giving up 14 or less a game this season.
The eagle is the only bird that needs to fly in JHS.
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I will streak to midfield at the last home game if this team averages giving up 14 or less a game this season.
Prepare your attire or the lack thereof
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https://www.seccountry.com/auburn/past-connection-plays-a-big-role-in-auburn-landing-graduate-transfer-defensive-back
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I will streak to midfield at the last home game if this team averages giving up 14 or less a game this season.
I could actually see them averaging somewhere in the lower 20s, and if Gus can get his act together on offense, which I hope is the case, that could lead to a somewhat special year. I'm hard on Gus for last year but this is the year he truly has no excuses.
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I could actually see them averaging somewhere in the lower 20s, and if Gus can get his act together on offense, which I hope is the case, that could lead to a somewhat special year. I'm hard on Gus for last year but this is the year he truly has no excuses.
I have lost all faith in the offense unfortunately...
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I have lost all faith in the offense unfortunately...
Thats what I'm scared of. I'm thinking it could be like 2008 where our defense kept us in games for the most part, but the offense couldn't get over the hump.
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With the addition of Marshall Taylor, I think it's safe to say that the DB's are the deepest group on the roster. And pretty doggone experienced, to boot. There's 16 DB's listed on the roster, not including walk-ons. 9 of those are 6 foot or better.
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With the addition of Marshall Taylor, I think it's safe to say that the DB's are the deepest group on the roster. And pretty doggone experienced, to boot. There's 16 DB's listed on the roster, not including walk-ons. 9 of those are 6 foot or better.
Depth on the DL is great, too.
I'm totally expecting a different defense this year. Avg should be under 22...which should be more than ample.
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Depth on the DL is great, too.
I'm totally expecting a different defense this year. Avg should be under 22...which should be more than ample.
No question. Granted, Deshaun Watson may put us behind the 8-ball right off the bat in achieving that average. He made a believer out of me.
Here's where I see the upgrades over last season. With a healthy Lawson, Byron Cowart and the addition of Paul James and any number of incoming DE types (Again, Marlon Davidson has been looking good this spring) that should give them a legit pass rush off both edges. It should also allow Devaroe Lawrence to move back inside, where I think he's better suited at 280+. It looks like they'll be mega-experienced inside with 5-6 guys they can consistently rotate.
I can't honestly say LB will or won't be an upgrade with several of the players being inexperienced. But after seeing the combine/pro-day times of McKinzy and Frost, just getting some guys back there that can run would be a plus. And the transfer from Illi has to help.
Thinking back, I can't recall the last time we went into a season with any DB that I thought was legit All-Murrica' material. 2004 Carlos Rogers? Carlton Davis gives me chub. I like him soooo much. Hopefully Holsey is back to 100% by the Fall. If so, you're talking Davis, Holsey, Rudi, Tray, Irvin, Dinson, Roberts, transfers Jamel Dean and Marshall Taylor etc. If you can't put a head hunting, lock down group on the field out of that bunch...
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I cannot decide if you know less about democracy or football.
I can decide...you don't know anything about either. But hey, keep trying, you might get it one day...might.
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I can decide...you don't know anything about either. But hey, keep trying, you might get it one day...might.
Don't try to kick that high, cricket crutch. You'll strain a hammy.
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Don't try to kick that high, cricket crutch. You'll strain a hammy.
do you enjoy being an asshole?
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do you enjoy being an asshole?
I excel at it but not as much as some around here. :bar:
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I excel at it but not as much as some around here. :bar:
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Kaos recognizes thinly veiled jab, but sneers at it.
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https://www.seccountry.com/auburn/auburn-centers-move-to-left-tackle-could-be-permanent
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http://www.collegeandmagnolia.com/2016/4/5/11373236/auburn-football-spring-practice-2016-practice-12-observations-and
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Just gonna go ahead and say JFIII will be the 2016 starter.
https://www.seccountry.com/auburn/auburns-john-franklin-iii-fastest-quarterback-teammate-has-seen
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https://m.facebook.com/groups/494075067295390?view=permalink&id=1008181015884790
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I'm just going to go ahead and say that I'm going to lay some pipe with the SI swimsuit girls but it won't make it so.
Do you actually think Jeremy Johnson would forego the draft and come back for another season only to play backup? What a dumbass.
It does look more and more like they are falling into the JJ6 trap again!
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I'm just going to go ahead and say that I'm going to lay some pipe with the SI swimsuit girls but it won't make it so.
Do you actually think Jeremy Johnson would forego the draft and come back for another season only to play backup? What a dumbass.
Maybe JJ falls for a trap that he nor no one else thinks exist at that moment in time. Unless JJ is the 2nd coming of Campbell in 04, Franklin will be the 2016 starter.
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Maybe JJ falls for a trap that he nor no one else thinks exist at that moment in time. Unless JJ is the 2nd coming of Campbell in 04, Franklin will be the 2016 starter.
I really do wish that this makes me feel great. But there isn't a QB name that does that. And with the flagrant miss at the position last year, I'm a doubting Thomas.
Maybe a White and JFIII combo is the answer. White seemed ESP bad in the red zone. Maybe we see the speed demon package there. But 58% completion in JUCO?
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Golson (6-foot-5, 305) and Texas transfer Darius James (6-foot-4, 332) are battling for the starting job on the left side, though James has also seen time at right tackle.
You people are slipping. Why wasn't I notified about this transfer?
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You people are slipping. Why wasn't I notified about this transfer?
Um...you even commented on it here:
http://www.tigersx.com/forum/index.php?topic=25623.msg388309#msg388309
And in this thread, as well:
http://www.tigersx.com/forum/index.php?topic=26563.msg404691#msg404691
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Um...you even commented on it here:
http://www.tigersx.com/forum/index.php?topic=25623.msg388309#msg388309
And in this thread, as well:
http://www.tigersx.com/forum/index.php?topic=26563.msg404691#msg404691
You expect this man to read? C'mon!
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Um...you even commented on it here:
http://www.tigersx.com/forum/index.php?topic=25623.msg388309#msg388309
And in this thread, as well:
http://www.tigersx.com/forum/index.php?topic=26563.msg404691#msg404691
Pfft. Expecting me to read what I typed too. Y'all really are slipping.
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I was gonna' read what I wrote, but I got high.
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^
Kaos recognizes thinly veiled jab, but sneers at it.
So does bob dole.
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So does bob dole.
Ergo, Kaos is having a stroke?
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So does bob dole.
Bob Dole recognizes this hustle and salutes it.
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Bob Dole recognizes this hustle and salutes it.
I need to write that down. Do you have a pen I can borrow?
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Good piece by Tom Green verifying what Wesley was alluding to earlier on our D-Line. I was stoked about the number of DB's we have but this also gives me pause for chub.
Posted: Wednesday, April 6, 2016 8:08 pm
By Tom Green tgreen@oanow.com
AUBURN - For Montravius Adams and Carl Lawson, this spring has felt like a blast from the past — at least when it comes to the defensive line.
Auburn has been rotating an abundance of players up front on defense, with at least 10 players along the line who could contribute this fall. The Tigers return a considerable amount of experience up front to go along with a mix of youthful upside.
It’s a recipe that conjures up memories of 2013, when Auburn fielded a deep defensive line that helped pave the way for the team’s remarkable turnaround that culminated in a Southeastern Conference Championship and trip to the BCS National Championship Game.
“Besides my freshman year, yes, this is the deepest we've ever been,†said Adams, now a senior who was a freshman in 2013. “And this ain't even everybody. We've still got three or four more guys coming in at tackle and end.â€
The considerable depth along the defensive line means the unit should be the strength of the defense — something that hasn’t been the case since, again, 2013. During that season, Auburn touted a two-deep along the line that included Dee Ford, LaDarius Owens, Lawson and Elijah Daniel at defensive end, and Nosa Eguae, Adams, Gabe Wright, Ben Bradley and Kenneth Carter at defensive tackle.
That year, Auburn was 31 st in the nation with 32 sacks — a number that ranked third in the SEC. That number has decreased substantially each of the last two seasons, as the Tigers have struggled to develop any consistent rush up front. In 2014, the team ranked 94 th nationally and 11th in the conference with 21 sacks, and then last season that number dipped again as Auburn tallied 19 sacks — 102nd nationally and 13th in the SEC.
“We preach about affecting the passer and we're slowly but surely getting in that direction,†defensive coordinator Kevin Steele said. “You want to be able to do it with a four-man rush and not have to pressure all the time.
“ You get the wrong quarterback, you're pressuring and you can get yourself in a bind. You need to be able to generate that with a four-man rush…. The body of work we've got we're not far into but you can see that there's a group of guys that gives you the potential to be effective on the quarterback.â€
Returning up front for Auburn are Adams and Lawson, who have 60 combined games of experience under their belts, as well as defensive tackles Devaroe Lawrence, Maurice Swain and Dontavius Russell — all of whom played significant snaps last season.
The Tigers also bring back defensive ends Byron Cowart, Raashed Kennion and Jeff Holland, all of whom contributed in 2015, with the latter earning praise this spring for his development as a pass rusher.
Add in redshirt freshmen defensive tackles Jaunta’vius Johnson and Andrew Williams, plus redshirt freshman defensive end Prince Tega Wanogho, as well as the influx of talent already on campus from this year’s signing class, like freshmen Marlon Davidson and Antwuan Jackson, as well as junior college transfer Paul James III, and the potential for quality depth along the line becomes staggering.
“We have a lot of bodies and we're getting some more,†Lawson said. “I'm happy. To be able to rotate and stay fresh like we did in 2013.â€
By summer, the Tigers will also add five-star defensive tackle Derrick Brown — the No. 3 player at his position out of high school, according to Rivals.com — and four-star defensive end Nick Coe, who happens to also be a two-time state champion wrestler.
Does there become a point where Auburn could have too many players rotating on the defensive line? Not in Adams’ eyes. After all, Alabama won a national championship last season with a formidable nine-deep rotation along the defensive line.
“I don't think you have too many,†Adams said. “And how Coach (Rodney Garner) rotates us, it just makes it better. He always wants us to be fresh in the fourth quarter. With that depth, we will be.â€
The abundance of depth up front creates better competition in practice, which Adams believes will only help the defense as it prepares for the upcoming season. By the time the opener against Clemson rolls around come September, Adams said Garner wants to have it trimmed down to “like, 10 people†on the defensive line.
Whoever those 10 end up being, the goal is simple: Get after the quarterback more effectively than in years past.
“There's a lot of great potential because when you have guys with a bunch of pass-rushing skill set you'll be able to execute games quickly and apply pressure on the quarterback, help in the secondary and get off the field on third down,†Lawson said. “Getting after the quarterback is what we want to do.â€
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I need to write that down. Do you have a pen I can borrow?
You'll get Bob Dole's pen when you pry it from Bob Dole's dead hand.
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Ergo, Kaos is having a stroke?
A rare miss for you.
But Buzz and PCT pulled you through this time. Thats what friends are for.
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http://www.al.com/auburnfootball/index.ssf/2016/04/can_john_franklin_iii_make_aub.html#incart_river_index
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http://www.scout.com/college/auburn/story/1656928-horton-says-he-s-pleased-with-running-backs
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90,000+ to see Cam 2.0(again) or mini-Cam!
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http://www.auburntigers.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/041216aaa.html