Meeting Expectations in the SEC in 2008

[the Prodigy]

I've been probing and looking at what most of the expectations on this board seem to be. As most of the posters here are pretty reasonable, I figured this was a good barometer of the SEC fan bases.

Comments on all the teams are encouraged.

ALABAMA:

Expectations – win 9 or more games; compete for the SEC West; Beat Clemson
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - winning the SEC West
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – winning 7 games or fewer; losing to Arkansas, MSU, or Ole Miss. (Losing to AU, extending the streak to 7)

MY TAKE: I think that Alabama has a better chance to exceed expectations of the more sane part of the fan base. Alabama has a very good Offensive line returning and a Senior QB who although hasn’t been considered one of the conferences elite, has shown he can win in the clutch and manage a game well.


ARKANSAS:

Expectations – win 6 or more games; beat Ole Miss (Texas or LSU would be a huge Bonus)
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - winning 8 or more games; Beating Florida, LSU, or Texas
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – winning 4 games or fewer; Losing all conference games. (losing to Ole Miss would create a lot of problems in the natural state.)

MY TAKE: Arkansas has the looks of doing exactly what the fans expect, win games they are expected to, play competitively in the SEC, an upset or two is a must. With so many questions at the skill positions, Arkansas needs someone to step up in a big way at QB who can run an offense and be a strong leader.

AUBURN:

Expectations – Win the SEC West; Beat Alabama and West Virginia
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Winning the SEC or going to a BCS bowl as an at large. Beating LSU or UGA is a must (they could lose to UGA in the regular season, but beating UGA in the title game would have the same effect.)
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Losing to Arkansas or Alabama

MY TAKE: Auburn has a lot of questions among the secondary and receiver positions. They have to improve upon weak Offensive Line performances last season. While AU has taken the appropriate steps to improve overall offensive and defensive schemes in hiring TWO new coordinators just how quickly the sophomore QB and questionable secondary pick it up remains to be seen. Early indications point to the AU team being erratic throughout the season. While AU may look like an offensive juggernaut at times, they may also go 3 and out A LOT! I don’t think AU will live up to the high expectations of AU fans this season.

LSU:

Expectations – Win the SEC West; go to a BCS bowl; beat FLA and/or UGA, and Arkansas(losing a rivalry game two years in a row to a team that they should not lose to would be unacceptable to most LSU fans)
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Going undefeated in the SEC; playing in the national title game.
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Losing to Auburn or Alabama – not winning the West


MY TAKE: LSU will probably be just as strong as they were last season, the problem with that is that they backed into the National Title game after losing twice as the no.1 team in the country and beating a UT team that was in reality only the 3rd best team in the East. LSU will not win the SEC, but they will have made a strong case in the regular season by winning the West for a BCS bid.

MISSISSIPPI STATE:

Expectations – Win 8 or more games; beat Ole Miss and Bama/Ark
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Winning 9 or more games; competing for the West title.
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – winning 7 or fewer games; losing a game or two they will be favored in (Arkansas or Ole Miss)

MY TAKE: The Margin of error for MSU is slim. One game could be the difference between moving up in the Conference pecking order and returning to their losing ways. I think MSU will win a lot of games, surprise some people, but this season may not turn out much different than last season. MSU will win games they are predicted to lose and lose a game they are predicted to win. Confidence will be huge for this team if they want to compete against LSU and AU for the top spots in the West.

OLE MISS:

Expectations – Have a winning conference record; Beat Arkansas, MSU or SC.
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Beating LSU or Auburn
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Losing to wake Forest; looking the same as before.

MY TAKE: Houston Nutt will have success at Ole Miss, just not immediately as he did at Arkansas. Ole Miss returns a decent OL and has some good skill players, but if the players need discipline early, and they lose some close games, Ole Miss’s season could turn south in hurry. I think Ole Miss has a lot of potential, but it takes time to develop that. Snead has to step up for Ole Miss to be a factor. WR’s need to be better than last season.

FLORIDA:

Expectations – Win the SEC; Beat LSU, FSU, Miami, UGA
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Winning the national title
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – getting caught in a trap game like SC.


MY TAKE: They have the talent to win the SEC and National Title. Tebow will be less productive than he was last season, but Florida as a team will be the better for it and will win more games.


GEORGIA:

Expectations – Winning the National Title
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Winning the National Title by A LOT?
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Losing more than 2 games.


MY TAKE: If UGA wants to win a National Title they will have to prove themselves every time they step on the field, because they will get everyone’s best shot. With a very competitive Florida team on the schedule, if UGA doesn’t come out strong every week, they won’t make it to the title game. Their chances to win the SEC are the best of any team this season, and they have the talent and depth to beat anyone. Mental toughness is what this season will hinge upon.


KENTUCKY:

Expectations – Beat Louisville
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Have a winning record
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Losing to Temple


MY TAKE: UK has to have production from their ground game if they want to be competitive next season.


SOUTH CAROLINA:

Expectations – Compete for the SEC East; beat Arkansas
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Winning the SEC East; Beating Clemson and UT.
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – have a losing conference record


MY TAKE: SC has a lot of talent returning. This is a team that looks built to last through the SEC; But SC want to do more than get through their schedule. They want to win games. I think Spurrier has done a good job of building at SC, but his team has the bad luck of peaking at the same time that UGA and FLA are both potential top 5 teams in the nation. SC will look competitive, but winning the East is a long shot this season.


TENNESSEE:

Expectations – Compete for the SEC East; Beat UCLA
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Winning the East; FLA or UGA
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – losing to SC and UCLA


MY TAKE: Compton has looked like he can be a QB in the SEC, but has yet to prove it over an extended time. He gets his chance next season. Fulmer’s life at UT may depend on the play of this QB next season. I think they will be competitive but Winning the East is not looking promising next season.


VANDERBILT:

Expectations – Create new high impact pocket protectors for their jersey’s so as to do homework on the sideline and at half time.
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Figuring out a formula to transform their basketball program into their football program….
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Doing bad enough to get their HC fired.


MY TAKE: I think Vanderbilt will meet their expectations for the season.

[Fadeproof]

Pretty good synopsis. Good work. :thumpsup:

[OleMissPike]

OLE MISS:

Expectations – Have a winning conference record; Beat Arkansas, MSU or SC.
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Beating LSU or Auburn
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Losing to wake Forest; looking the same as before.

MY TAKE: Houston Nutt will have success at Ole Miss, just not immediately as he did at Arkansas. Ole Miss returns a decent OL and has some good skill players, but if the players need discipline early, and they lose some close games, Ole Miss’s season could turn south in hurry. I think Ole Miss has a lot of potential, but it takes time to develop that. Snead has to step up for Ole Miss to be a factor. WR’s need to be better than last season.



I still don't know why you think our receivers played bad last year. It's our deepest and most talented position and they played very well last year.

[ShowTime24]

prodigy, I havent been on this board very long but you have came off as a hater numerous time. This analysis is very good I am just trying to figure out if you were just trying to aggravate earlier or what? but like I said very good analysis!:thumpsup:

[GeauxTo]

Nicely done. Realistic appraisals of each team, IMO.
The only assessment with which I strongly disagree is Alabama. I do not think they will be any better (record wise) this year than last. Miss State will very likely beat them again, and watch out for Ole Miss; they, too, could beat the Bammers. Then, there are the usual suspects to whom Bama will lose: LSU, Tennessee, Georgia, and Auburn. Also, Clemson could beat the Bammers.
So, another 6-6 season (or worse) is a strong possibility for the Nickster.

[lacene]

I disagree with the assessment about USC. I know quite a number of Gamecock fans here (not me) last season were talking about competing for the East (as in having a chance of winning it).......Spurrier certainly didn't squelch the expectations with his own. But last season's final 5 games have tempered most - if not all - Gamecock expectations for this upcoming season. For the most part, predictions have USC winning 8 - possibly 9 - games, going to a bowl, and at best finishing with a winning SEC record and in the top 3 in the East (this was actually my prediction for USC for the '07 season). How you equate this into competing for the East title with UF & UGA this season, is totally beyond me........

[timNem]

9 wins for Bama would be great. But in order to achieve that, we need JPW to step up and get over the puppy love issues he had last year. If he does that then our offense could be very solid. Our defensive depth chart in the Spring is scary. We only have 3 DEs on scholarship and we have some depth issue at LB as well. We had these same issues 1 year ago but our defense turned out to be the strong point of our team.

If these two things work in our favor, I think we can improve this season. There have been some promising signs that JPW has become the vocal leader of the team. Last year, that wasn't the case.

[D^3]

I disagree with the assessment about USC. I know quite a number of Gamecock fans here (not me) last season were talking about competing for the East (as in having a chance of winning it).......Spurrier certainly didn't squelch the expectations with his own. But last season's final 5 games have tempered most - if not all - Gamecock expectations for this upcoming season. For the most part, predictions have USC winning 8 - possibly 9 - games, going to a bowl, and at best finishing with a winning SEC record and in the top 3 in the East (this was actually my prediction for USC for the '07 season). How you equate this into competing for the East title with UF & UGA this season, is totally beyond me........



I would agree with lacene on this. Last season the gamecock nation had very high expectations of competing for the East, and they did indeed have a shot at it. But the extremely high level of both the Georgia and Florida teams this year is going to make it very hard to compete for it this year, and I think the USC fans know that. Its not that they aren't a good team, its just that with UF and UGA both being BCS caliber teams right now, its going to be tough to beat both of them out. And we haven't even mentioned Tennessee, who may be a contender as well.

[the Prodigy]

I would agree with lacene on this. Last season the gamecock nation had very high expectations of competing for the East, and they did indeed have a shot at it. But the extremely high level of both the Georgia and Florida teams this year is going to make it very hard to compete for it this year, and I think the USC fans know that. Its not that they aren't a good team, its just that with UF and UGA both being BCS caliber teams right now, its going to be tough to beat both of them out. And we haven't even mentioned Tennessee, who may be a contender as well.

Well, that was MY personal assessment. SC fans have said that they have possibly 3 All-Americans on their team for next season. It seems like SC fans agree with what I think about their team more than they realize if that is the case.

My perception of their expectations is that they want to compete for the East this season because they have the talent they have.

See, there is a difference. I could be wrong in what I think their expectations are for their team. But it looks to me as if they think they have a really great team capable of competing for the East, as does Tennessee.

In my eyes, capable of competing and capable of winning are two different categories. UGA and Florida are in one, SC and UT are in another.

[the Prodigy]

I disagree with the assessment about USC. I know quite a number of Gamecock fans here (not me) last season were talking about competing for the East (as in having a chance of winning it).......Spurrier certainly didn't squelch the expectations with his own. But last season's final 5 games have tempered most - if not all - Gamecock expectations for this upcoming season. For the most part, predictions have USC winning 8 - possibly 9 - games, going to a bowl, and at best finishing with a winning SEC record and in the top 3 in the East (this was actually my prediction for USC for the '07 season). How you equate this into competing for the East title with UF & UGA this season, is totally beyond me........

From what I've read on this board, SC fans think that they have a hell of a team next season. They do. Like I said in my last post, I think SC has peaked at the wrong time. My perception of their expectations is different than how I think they will actually do. You and I are on the same page in terms of what we expect. But I've seen SC fans say, seriously, that they have 3 or 4 potential all-americans. That, at the very least, sounds to me like a fan base who thinks they should be competing for a division title this season.

[lacene]

From what I've read on this board, SC fans think that they have a hell of a team next season. They do. Like I said in my last post, I think SC has peaked at the wrong time. My perception of their expectations is different than how I think they will actually do. You and I are on the same page in terms of what we expect. But I've seen SC fans say, seriously, that they have 3 or 4 potential all-americans. That, at the very least, sounds to me like a fan base who thinks they should be competing for a division title this season.

If you truly think that one USC fanbase-member here thinking USC could have 3-4 potential All-Americans next season directly equates to the majority of the USC fanbase here thinking that USC will be a serious contender for the SEC East, then you are more delusional than BAMAPERRY, and have immediately rendered this thread a joke. Seriously, I would've thought that you learned something of value from your beat-down in the other thread, but obviously not.......

[the Prodigy]

If you truly think that one USC fanbase-member here thinking USC could have 3-4 potential All-Americans next season directly equates to the majority of the USC fanbase here thinking that USC will be a serious contender for the SEC East, then you are more delusional than BAMAPERRY, and have immediately rendered this thread a joke. Seriously, I would've thought that you learned something of value from your beat-down in the other thread, but obviously not.......

Hey, stop trying to start sh*t.

If those aren't your expectations, sorry, my bad. That was the impression I got. I'm pretty sure everything you said is RIGHT THERE UNDER MY TAKE: Yup, that's right. You and I think the same thing about YOUR team next season.

[Tider27]

I'm expecting at least 8 wins and above. I might bet on a couple of more 'upsets', depends on how much money I have though. :ph34r:

[the Prodigy]

I'm expecting at least 8 wins and above. I might bet on a couple of more 'upsets', depends on how much money I have though. :ph34r:

I really like Alabama next season. They have issues at LB, which could hurt them early, but the LB corps doesn't require a lot of talent to win games. You can live and die on the line or the secondary. LB's need to be able to float, which means if you have good coaching staff you can fill the needs with More DL or more CB's based on the down or formation.

I like Alabama to place second behind LSU next season.

[oxfordreb]

I agree w/ ompike, don't know where us having a bad WR receiver corps came from, they made a walk-on QB look pretty good for most of the season last year. That was a definete strength of the team, they really kept us in some ballgames.

[the Prodigy]

I agree w/ ompike, don't know where us having a bad WR receiver corps came from, they made a walk-on QB look pretty good for most of the season last year. That was a definete strength of the team, they really kept us in some ballgames.

Well that isn't what I said is it? I said that the WR's would have to play better than they did last season. I think the WR's have the talent, but they mostly piddled it away last season. They must play better if Ole Miss wants to win conference games.

[FanninFan]

AUBURN:

Expectations – Win the SEC West; Beat Alabama and West Virginia
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Winning the SEC or going to a BCS bowl as an at large. Beating LSU or UGA is a must (they could lose to UGA in the regular season, but beating UGA in the title game would have the same effect.)
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Losing to Arkansas or Alabama

MY TAKE: Auburn has a lot of questions among the secondary and receiver positions. They have to improve upon weak Offensive Line performances last season. While AU has taken the appropriate steps to improve overall offensive and defensive schemes in hiring TWO new coordinators just how quickly the sophomore QB and questionable secondary pick it up remains to be seen. Early indications point to the AU team being erratic throughout the season. While AU may look like an offensive juggernaut at times, they may also go 3 and out A LOT! I don’t think AU will live up to the high expectations of AU fans this season.

I'm still struggling to grasp how our offensive line is weak. First 3 games last year, it was sub par. But after that it was good enough to put the fight to Florida, LSU, Georgia, Alabama, and Clemson. And if you have questions about the secondary and WR positions, here's your answer:

RECEIVERS:

Rod Smith
Montez Billings
Robert Dunn
Tommy Trott
Brad Lester, Ben Tate, and Mario Fannin all showed good ability to catch the ball last year, and with the new offense, you can expect more of the same.

SECONDARY:

Aairon Savage
Zach Etheridge
Jerraud Powers
Walter McFadden

And by the way, our sophomore QB carried us to victories over Florida and Clemson. I don't know what being a sophomore has anything to do with our success, I remember a pretty good sophomore quarterback playing at Florida last year...

[bulldawg]

This is a very unbiased analysis on your part and a very real way of thinking. Good job. :thumpsup:


GEORGIA:

Expectations – Winning the National Title
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Winning the National Title by A LOT?
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Losing more than 2 games.


MY TAKE: If UGA wants to win a National Title they will have to prove themselves every time they step on the field, because they will get everyone’s best shot. With a very competitive Florida team on the schedule, if UGA doesn’t come out strong every week, they won’t make it to the title game. Their chances to win the SEC are the best of any team this season, and they have the talent and depth to beat anyone. Mental toughness is what this season will hinge upon.

[GeauxTo]

This is a very unbiased analysis on your part and a very real way of thinking. Good job. :thumpsup:


GEORGIA:

Expectations – Winning the National Title
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Winning the National Title by A LOT?
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Losing more than 2 games.


MY TAKE: If UGA wants to win a National Title they will have to prove themselves every time they step on the field, because they will get everyone’s best shot. With a very competitive Florida team on the schedule, if UGA doesn’t come out strong every week, they won’t make it to the title game. Their chances to win the SEC are the best of any team this season, and they have the talent and depth to beat anyone. Mental toughness is what this season will hinge upon.

UGA definitely has the biggest, most formidable test of any team looked upon as a potential national championship contender. If they get by LSU and Florida in back-to-backs, they deserve to win the SEC and the national crown, for they will have shown that they truly have a great team.

[oxfordreb]

Well that isn't what I said is it? I said that the WR's would have to play better than they did last season. I think the WR's have the talent, but they mostly piddled it away last season. They must play better if Ole Miss wants to win conference games.

Dude, you don't know a thing about this team apparently, the wr corp. is the ONLY thing besides our running game that showed any consistency last season. They didn't piddle anything, if our crappy QB's gave them a chance, they converted almost every time.

Do your homework before you throw out random comments.

[OleMissPike]

Well that isn't what I said is it? I said that the WR's would have to play better than they did last season. I think the WR's have the talent, but they mostly piddled it away last season. They must play better if Ole Miss wants to win conference games.
ESPN.com: SEC Statistics (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/confstatistics?stat=&group=8&sort=&qual=&season=&year=&max=&pos=&lite=)

2007 SEC Receiving Leaders:
Yards:
Ranked 9th, Mike Wallace 716
Ranked 17th, Shay Hodge 593

Receptions:
Ranked 17th, Shay Hodge 43

Average yards per catch:
Ranked 1st Mike Wallace 18.8
Ranked 12th, Shay Hodge 13.8
Ranked 20th, Dexter McCluster 12.1

Longest Reception:
Ranked 3rd, Mike Wallace 77 yards

Touchdowns:
Tied at #8, Mike Wallace and Shay Hodge, 6 touchdowns a piece

Drop it, you are wrong on this one. There is no dispute.

[Tider27]

I'm still struggling to grasp how our offensive line is weak. First 3 games last year, it was sub par. But after that it was good enough to put the fight to Florida, LSU, Georgia, Alabama, and Clemson. And if you have questions about the secondary and WR positions, here's your answer:

RECEIVERS:

Rod Smith
Montez Billings
Robert Dunn
Tommy Trott
Brad Lester, Ben Tate, and Mario Fannin all showed good ability to catch the ball last year, and with the new offense, you can expect more of the same.

SECONDARY:

Aairon Savage
Zach Etheridge
Jerraud Powers
Walter McFadden

And by the way, our sophomore QB carried us to victories over Florida and Clemson. I don't know what being a sophomore has anything to do with our success, I remember a pretty good sophomore quarterback playing at Florida last year...

No offense since your team has beaten us the last 'couple' of years, but naming your starters proves nothing? That still looks like a WR and Secondary core depleted in depth and maybe a little in talent. Only in your eyes does that looks like a stellar lineup. :ph34r:

[the Prodigy]

ESPN.com: SEC Statistics (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/confstatistics?stat=&group=8&sort=&qual=&season=&year=&max=&pos=&lite=)

2007 SEC Receiving Leaders:
Yards:
Ranked 9th, Mike Wallace 716
Ranked 17th, Shay Hodge 593

Receptions:
Ranked 17th, Shay Hodge 43

Average yards per catch:
Ranked 1st Mike Wallace 18.8
Ranked 12th, Shay Hodge 13.8
Ranked 20th, Dexter McCluster 12.1

Longest Reception:
Ranked 3rd, Mike Wallace 77 yards

Touchdowns:
Tied at #8, Mike Wallace and Shay Hodge, 6 touchdowns a piece

Drop it, you are wrong on this one. There is no dispute.

Well, I'm not wrong. I think we just have different standards for what makes a good WR corps. That looks like a very average WR corps to me. They need to be better than average to win games, which they couldn't do a whole lot of last season.

[the Prodigy]

No offense since your team has beaten us the last 'couple' of years, but naming your starters proves nothing? That still looks like a WR and Secondary core depleted in depth and maybe a little in talent. Only in your eyes does that looks like a stellar lineup. :ph34r:

That's all I'm sayin bro....

[the Prodigy]

Dude, you don't know a thing about this team apparently, the wr corp. is the ONLY thing besides our running game that showed any consistency last season. They didn't piddle anything, if our crappy QB's gave them a chance, they converted almost every time.

Do your homework before you throw out random comments.

I did my homework, I looked at the same stats that Pike is now using to try and prove me wrong. I see a WR that needs to perform better than they did last season. If that was the best they've got, which I doubt, you guys are in trouble.

[Noah.Dreams]

Alabama has very little experience on defense and zero depth, with 1 linebacker, 1 lineman, a cover corner and a safety returning.... this won't get it done.

This team will need a miracle to finish 7-5.
I really like Alabama next season. They have issues at LB, which could hurt them early, but the LB corps doesn't require a lot of talent to win games. You can live and die on the line or the secondary. LB's need to be able to float, which means if you have good coaching staff you can fill the needs with More DL or more CB's based on the down or formation.

I like Alabama to place second behind LSU next season.
I've been probing and looking at what most of the expectations on this board seem to be. As most of the posters here are pretty reasonable, I figured this was a good barometer of the SEC fan bases.

Comments on all the teams are encouraged.

ALABAMA:

Expectations – win 9 or more games; compete for the SEC West; Beat Clemson
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - winning the SEC West
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – winning 7 games or fewer; losing to Arkansas, MSU, or Ole Miss. (Losing to AU, extending the streak to 7)

MY TAKE: I think that Alabama has a better chance to exceed expectations of the more sane part of the fan base. Alabama has a very good Offensive line returning and a Senior QB who although hasn’t been considered one of the conferences elite, has shown he can win in the clutch and manage a game well.

[Noah.Dreams]

Don't let this get around, but GeauxTo is right again....

Nicely done. Realistic appraisals of each team, IMO.
The only assessment with which I strongly disagree is Alabama. I do not think they will be any better (record wise) this year than last. Miss State will very likely beat them again, and watch out for Ole Miss; they, too, could beat the Bammers. Then, there are the usual suspects to whom Bama will lose: LSU, Tennessee, Georgia, and Auburn. Also, Clemson could beat the Bammers.
So, another 6-6 season (or worse) is a strong possibility for the Nickster.

[the Prodigy]

Alabama has very little experience on defense and zero depth, with 1 linebacker, 1 lineman, a cover corner and a safety returning.... this won't get it done.

This team will need a miracle to finish 7-5.

Well, I agree with you on the LB comment, that is by far the position they are weakest at. You've still got 3 DL's last I checked. I'm guessing that some position changes will happen before too long.

One thing Saban has proven to me over his tenor is that he knows what he's doing when it comes to assessing talent especially on the defensive side of the ball. More so than any other coach right now in the SEC, I have faith in Saban's ability to turn a depth starved Bama defense into serviceable Group of defenders. That and Alabama has plenty to build on with a great OL.

[OleMissPike]

Well, I'm not wrong. I think we just have different standards for what makes a good WR corps. That looks like a very average WR corps to me. They need to be better than average to win games, which they couldn't do a whole lot of last season.

Yes, you are wrong. You are confusing QB play with WR play. Last time I checked, a QB has to get the ball to a WR for him to make a play. Seth Adams threw more interceptions than anyone in the league last year (16) and about 15 of those were thrown directly to the opposing team. Throw in Brent Schaeffer's 4 interceptions and what you have is two crappy quarterbacks, not average WRs. For our WRs to put up those type of numbers with a walk on quarterback is nothing but positive. And besides, how can you argue with people who watched every Ole Miss game last year? You can't have watched more than 2 of our games last year or we wouldn't even be having this conversation.

[the Prodigy]

Yes, you are wrong. You are confusing QB play with WR play. Last time I checked, a QB has to get the ball to a WR for him to make a play. Seth Adams threw more interceptions than anyone in the league last year (16) and about 15 of those were thrown directly to the opposing team. Throw in Brent Schaeffer's 4 interceptions and what you have is two crappy quarterbacks, not average WRs. For our WRs to put up those type of numbers with a walk on quarterback is nothing but positive. And besides, how can you argue with people who watched every Ole Miss game last year? You can't have watched more than 2 of our games last year or we wouldn't even be having this conversation.

It always gets fans riled up when you take a position at which their team is strongest and say it could be better. I understand your frustration. It would be like someone saying Arkansas' OL could be stronger back in 06, it's true but a lot of people would have taken exception to that statement.

But in Ole Miss's case it is the truth. You are correct, QB play had some to do with Ole Miss's very average WR stats. But I also noticed Ole Miss's receivers have issues creating separation, and you can forget about the long ball, they couldn't get off the line fast enough to beat the upper echelon SEC CB's. In the Arkansas game especially, Ole Miss's receivers had issues in just about everything, and Arkansas wasn't really that strong in the secondary. But that was one game. And one game does not a season make.

I don't buy teams who are great when things are easy. How do they do under adversity, when they aren't on the top of their game. Last season, in those situations, Ole Miss was helpless. Their WR's looked just as helpless as the rest of the team. Sorry, that is how I see, it. It's not like Ole Miss had the no.1 and 2 receivers in the conference despite being mediocre or worse in the other categories.

They must improve, that is what I'm telling you, not that they were terrible last season. Calm down.

[Noah.Dreams]

Alabama's offensive line might be experienced, but they have accomplished very little. Decent maybe, but great is just a dream.

Wonderful. Alabama has a total of THREE defensive linemen that have ever played a game. I'm already dreading this season, don't make it worst.

Well, I agree with you on the LB comment, that is by far the position they are weakest at. You've still got 3 DL's last I checked. I'm guessing that some position changes will happen before too long.

One thing Saban has proven to me over his tenor is that he knows what he's doing when it comes to assessing talent especially on the defensive side of the ball. More so than any other coach right now in the SEC, I have faith in Saban's ability to turn a depth starved Bama defense into serviceable Group of defenders. That and Alabama has plenty to build on with a great OL.

[GeauxTo]

Alabama has very little experience on defense and zero depth, with 1 linebacker, 1 lineman, a cover corner and a safety returning.... this won't get it done.

This team will need a miracle to finish 7-5.

Right smack on the money!
:thumpsup:

[the Prodigy]

Alabama's offensive line might be experienced, but they have accomplished very little. Decent maybe, but great is just a dream.

Wonderful. Alabama has a total of THREE defensive linemen that have ever played a game. I'm already dreading this season, don't make it worst.

Well, I'd be lying if I said that you can beat Arkansas and Clemson right off the bat.

When the season starts, all Alabama and Arkansas fans know, THAT game pretty much deteimines how the season will go. Boy does it. I figure Arkansas and Bama could have the same record going into that game, who knows.

Bama might surprise you this coming season.

[Noah.Dreams]

I've had my heart broken too many times before, so please don't set high expectations. I protect myself by under promising and over delivering.

If Alabama finishes better than 7-5, it can only mean the referees are gambling again....

Well, I'd be lying if I said that you can beat Arkansas and Clemson right off the bat.

When the season starts, all Alabama and Arkansas fans know, THAT game pretty much deteimines how the season will go. Boy does it. I figure Arkansas and Bama could have the same record going into that game, who knows.

Bama might surprise you this coming season.

[FanninFan]

No offense since your team has beaten us the last 'couple' of years, but naming your starters proves nothing? That still looks like a WR and Secondary core depleted in depth and maybe a little in talent. Only in your eyes does that looks like a stellar lineup. :ph34r:

Not stellar. But definitely solid. Better than yours, or that team of Prodigy's, I'd have to say.

[GeauxTo]

Not stellar. But definitely solid. Better than yours, or that team of Prodigy's, I'd have to say.

The Barn will be better than Bama, but not much. You have no QB and no running game.

[OleMissPike]

It always gets fans riled up when you take a position at which their team is strongest and say it could be better. I understand your frustration. It would be like someone saying Arkansas' OL could be stronger back in 06, it's true but a lot of people would have taken exception to that statement.

But in Ole Miss's case it is the truth. You are correct, QB play had some to do with Ole Miss's very average WR stats. But I also noticed Ole Miss's receivers have issues creating separation, and you can forget about the long ball, they couldn't get off the line fast enough to beat the upper echelon SEC CB's. In the Arkansas game especially, Ole Miss's receivers had issues in just about everything, and Arkansas wasn't really that strong in the secondary. But that was one game. And one game does not a season make.

I don't buy teams who are great when things are easy. How do they do under adversity, when they aren't on the top of their game. Last season, in those situations, Ole Miss was helpless. Their WR's looked just as helpless as the rest of the team. Sorry, that is how I see, it. It's not like Ole Miss had the no.1 and 2 receivers in the conference despite being mediocre or worse in the other categories.

They must improve, that is what I'm telling you, not that they were terrible last season. Calm down.

Don't worry, I'm not getting upset over this. I actually find it comical. Whether you want to admit it or not, you don't have any clue about how our WR's performed last year. I understand you were saying they need to play better than last year, but what I'm trying to get you to understand is the only way they could have played better last year was if they had a decent QB. And I'm really not trying to call you out, but your whole synopsis of last year's WR production is wrong.
1. You say they couldn't create separation and it's not like we wad the #1 receiver in the conference. Mike Wallace was the #1 WR in the conference in yards per catch. If you can't create separation, there's no way you average nearly 20 yards per catch.

2. You say they couldn't get off the line against the upper echelon of SEC CB's, yet Wallace smoked Florida for a 77 yard TD (3rd longest in the league), Georgia for a 45 yard TD, and Arkansas for a 37 yard TD. Hell, our backup split end, Michael Hicks, had a 51 yard grab against Florida.

You are entitled to your take on things, but I'm just not making the connection between what you're saying and what I saw watching every Ole Miss game last year.

[Tider27]

Not stellar. But definitely solid. Better than yours, or that team of Prodigy's, I'd have to say.

I'll put our True freshman group of WR's against Auburn's starting lineup. :lol:

I'll also put our secondary up against yours, mainly our All-SEC safety Rashad Johnson and Freshman All-SEC CB Kareem Jackson. :thumpsup:

Now let me hear that six in a row comeback.

[FanninFan]

The Barn will be better than Bama, but not much. You have no QB and no running game.

No running game or QB? Have you lost your mind? Kodi Burns has the potential to be one of the top 3 QB's in the country next year. Not to mention, Chris Todd, who has run this system and set Texas HS state records with it. And at least they can keep their asses out of trouble. And seriously, Brad Lester will be one of the top RB's in the nation. Along with Mario Fannin and Ben Tate behind he. Stupid, stupid post. But good try. :thumpsup:

[FanninFan]

And I love the way Prodigy gives out high fives to anti-auburn comments like food stamps at a revenue office in Louisiana.

[Tider27]

And I love the way Prodigy gives out high fives to anti-auburn comments like food stamps at a revenue office in Louisiana.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JjD4eWEUgMM

[GetEmGamecocks]

I disagree with the assessment about USC. I know quite a number of Gamecock fans here (not me) last season were talking about competing for the East (as in having a chance of winning it).......Spurrier certainly didn't squelch the expectations with his own. But last season's final 5 games have tempered most - if not all - Gamecock expectations for this upcoming season. For the most part, predictions have USC winning 8 - possibly 9 - games, going to a bowl, and at best finishing with a winning SEC record and in the top 3 in the East (this was actually my prediction for USC for the '07 season). How you equate this into competing for the East title with UF & UGA this season, is totally beyond me........

I expect us to compete for the East. With a couple lucky plays we could even win it.

[GeauxTo]

No running game or QB? Have you lost your mind? Kodi Burns has the potential to be one of the top 3 QB's in the country next year. Not to mention, Chris Todd, who has run this system and set Texas HS state records with it. And at least they can keep their asses out of trouble. And seriously, Brad Lester will be one of the top RB's in the nation. Along with Mario Fannin and Ben Tate behind he. Stupid, stupid post. But good try. :thumpsup:

Kodi Burns?? You're joking. He can't throw; he can run, and that's good, because with your offensive line against most SEC defenses, he'll be running for his life.

Brad Lester?? Give me a break! He wouldn't even be in the playing-time rotation on our team.

The Barn is in for a rough year. No matter what your coaches did in lower-tier colleges or what your players did in HIGH SCHOOL, this is the SEC with speed and talent seen nowhere else in college football. Getting your new system off of the ground will not be an easy thing.

[Tider27]

No running game or QB? Have you lost your mind? Kodi Burns has the potential to be one of the top 3 QB's in the country next year. Not to mention, Chris Todd, who has run this system and set Texas HS state records with it. And at least they can keep their asses out of trouble. And seriously, Brad Lester will be one of the top RB's in the nation. Along with Mario Fannin and Ben Tate behind he. Stupid, stupid post. But good try. :thumpsup:

Kodi Burns?? You're joking. He can't throw; he can run, and that's good, because with your offensive line against most SEC defenses, he'll be running for his life.

Brad Lester?? Give me a break! He wouldn't even be in the playing-time rotation on our team.

The Barn is in for a rough year. No matter what your coaches did in lower-tier colleges or what your players did in HIGH SCHOOL, this is the SEC with speed and talent seen nowhere else in college football. Getting your new system off of the ground will not be an easy thing.


We're dealing with a even bigger homer then yourself and I combined GeauxTo. :lol:

[the Prodigy]

I hate Alabama a lot more than I hate Auburn. Auburn fans are just acting silly right now though.

BUSTIN CHOPS....

[Tider27]

I hate Alabama a lot more than I hate Auburn. Auburn fans are just acting silly right now though.

BUSTIN CHOPS....

It's because we usually beat you guys, while Auburn chokes...right? :D

[the Prodigy]

It's because we usually beat you guys, while Auburn chokes...right? :D

Until last season, Nutt (who had been the coach at Arkansas for a decade) had a winning record over every team in Alabama. Which means in the last decade Arkansas is .500 against both Auburn and Alabama. in 06, Alabama beat themselves, in 07 the refs beat Arkansas. So I'm counting that as a game two game advantage to Arkansas....:laugh:

[bulldawg]

I expect us to compete for the East. With a couple lucky plays we could even win it.


I say USC will be 4th in the East at best. You can feel free to prove us wrong in the 3rd game of the season when UGA comes to your town. I doubt it though.

[reese]

kodi burns, a top 3 qb in the country? did i really read that? he will be lucky to be top 3 in the SEC. has he even won the job yet? isnt he still in comp with someone else?

[FanninFan]

We're dealing with a even bigger homer then yourself and I combined GeauxTo. :lol:

Homer? I'm an Auburn fan in Arkansas. Valiant effort at a comeback, though. I think I'll high five that one.

[Tider27]

Homer? I'm an Auburn fan in Arkansas. Valiant effort at a comeback, though. I think I'll high five that one.

Dude your trying to convince us that Kodi Burns will be one of the best QB's in the NATION next year. He won't even be in the top 10 for God sakes. Not only that, your saying Brad Lester is going to be one of the top RB's in the nation. He's a solid SEC RB and we all know this, but your sounding like a complete jacka$$ right now. They'll be good, but they're no Jason Campbell or Ronnie Brown. As for Ben Tate and Mario 'Fumble' Fannin, lets not get all excited about them just yet. They look promising but they have nothing on your previous studs now in the NFL. :thumbsdow

[FanninFan]

Dude your trying to convince us that Kodi Burns will be one of the best QB's in the NATION next year. He won't even be in the top 10 for God sakes. Not only that, your saying Brad Lester is going to be one of the top RB's in the nation. He's a solid SEC RB and we all know this, but your sounding like a complete jacka$$ right now. They'll be good, but they're no Jason Campbell or Ronnie Brown. As for Ben Tate and Mario 'Fumble' Fannin, lets not get all excited about them just yet. They look promising but they have nothing on your previous studs now in the NFL. :thumbsdow

I do believe Brad Lester has the potential to be one of the best in the country. And I think in this new offense, he'll get more 1 on 1, open field carries, and plenty of big runs. And regardless of how well he does individually, our RB corps as a whole should be impressive again. Lester can get outside and make moves in the open field, as well as run the ball well up the gut. Tate is the bruiser, and should get most of the tackle-to-tackle carries, and Fannin will probably play more at slot WR than RB, but he showed a good ability to make guys miss and break tackles last year. I misspoke on Burns. I think he can emerge as one of the top 3 SEC QB's, not one of the top 3 in the nation. :laugh: That would be stupid. If he can improve on his throwing, (and I think Franklin can assure that) he will be an excellent dual-threat QB in a perfect offense for him.

[Tider27]

I do believe Brad Lester has the potential to be one of the best in the country. And I think in this new offense, he'll get more 1 on 1, open field carries, and plenty of big runs. And regardless of how well he does individually, our RB corps as a whole should be impressive again. Lester can get outside and make moves in the open field, as well as run the ball well up the gut. Tate is the bruiser, and should get most of the tackle-to-tackle carries, and Fannin will probably play more at slot WR than RB, but he showed a good ability to make guys miss and break tackles last year. I misspoke on Burns. I think he can emerge as one of the top 3 SEC QB's, not one of the top 3 in the nation. :laugh: That would be stupid. If he can improve on his throwing, (and I think Franklin can assure that) he will be an excellent dual-threat QB in a perfect offense for him.

I can agree with that, but I hope this offense pays off like you guys think. I hope that you don't expect it to run extremely smooth in its first season. You'll have a bunch of kinks, mainly with the OL having to adapt to a completely different blocking style. We're just going to have to wait and see to be honest, but don't get your expectations too high.

[GeauxTo]

I misspoke on Burns. I think he can emerge as one of the top 3 SEC QB's, not one of the top 3 in the nation.

Which of these SEC QBs will Kodi Burns move out????


Tebow
Stafford
PerrillouxYou're dreaming the impossible dream on those lonely Auburn plains!

[Tider27]

Which of these SEC QBs will Kodi Burns move out????


Tebow
Stafford
PerrillouxYou're dreaming the impossible dream on those lonely Auburn plains!

No offence what so ever GeauxTo, but will Perrilloux even be playing this season? :D

I'd put Tennessee's new QB ahead of Burns, and even Ole Miss's Snead without seeing him start a game.

[GeauxTo]

No offence what so ever GeauxTo, but will Perrilloux even be playing this season? :D

I'd put Tennessee's new QB ahead of Burns, and even Ole Miss's Snead without seeing him start a game.

Perrilloux is on track to move back in unless he commits yet another dumb bell infraction. One of the black coaches has taken him under his wing, has him going to church with him and his family, has him visiting his home for family picknics and the like, and Perrilloux's response has been very positive so far. If he stays clean, he could become more effective and dangerous than either Tebow or Stafford because he will have a stellar running game to go with his great passing arm and corps of WRs.

And we are on the same page; Kodi Burns is not even in this league.

[FanninFan]

Call me an optimist, but I think he'll be better than Perrilloux. By the way, where's that heisman he guaranteed? I'm sure you'll rant over that, but whatever. I'm getting back on topic. I think Auburn can definitely achieve their goals of winning the SEC west, beating WVU, and beating Alabama. Our secondary and recievers are nothing spectacular. But they're talented enough and well coached enough to win. Our running backs should be solid again, and this new offense may allow them to eat up more yards while taking less of a beating. Burns should turn out to be a very good quarterback. He's nowhere near as good as Tebow, but take this for a comparison- He has the same tools that Tebow has utilized at Florida. He is a proven runner, and if his arm improves (which I think it will under Franklin) he could be much better than people are giving him credit for. Not to mention Todd, who could also win the job. I'm not sure about his running ability, but he was a HS standout under Franklin's system, he was originally recruited by Texas Tech (so you know he can throw the football) and he could emerge as a very good QB as well.

[GeauxTo]

Like I said, Burns is not even in the same ball park with Perrilloux. Ryan can thread the needle, is big, and can run better than any running back that The Barn has. Burns won't even be on the radar with Perrilloux, Stafford, and Tebow.

[BAMAPERRY]

Perrilloux has a lot of hype going for him, that's about all.

[FanninFan]

Like I said, Burns is not even in the same ball park with Perrilloux. Ryan can thread the needle, is big, and can run better than any running back that The Barn has. Burns won't even be on the radar with Perrilloux, Stafford, and Tebow.

Now you've made yourself look like an idiot saying nobody Auburn has can run as well as Perilloux. Okay. We'll just look back at the end of the year, and see who can run better.

[GeauxTo]

Now you've made yourself look like an idiot saying nobody Auburn has can run as well as Perilloux. Okay. We'll just look back at the end of the year, and see who can run better.

Nice, you have aligned yourself with BamaPerry, the Wizard of Odd. You would do well to explore Perrilloux's experiential background. He is a devastating runner. But one of the most remarkable things about him is that he can throw strikes while on the full run. Not only is Kodi Burns not even in the competition with RL, I would say that The Barn has NEVER had a QB in this category.
:thumpsup:

[The Ramp]

since neither has played an entire season yet, i'd say this is a silly speculative arguement

*goes back to corner*

[GeauxTo]

since neither has played an entire season yet, i'd say this is a silly speculative arguement

*goes back to corner*

"shrugs, mumbles to self, 'That damn Ramp always has to clutter things up with factual tidbits.'"
:laugh:

[The Ramp]

"shrugs, mumbles to self, 'That damn Ramp always has to clutter things up with factual tidbits.'"
:laugh:

that's why i'm not allowed out of the corner much

:laugh::laugh:

Geaux, where do you tailgate at? are u tailgating for the spring game?

[GeauxTo]

that's why i'm not allowed out of the corner much

:laugh::laugh:

Geaux, where do you tailgate at? are u tailgating for the spring game?

Right next to the P-MAC; on the East side. No, not tailgating (unless something changes since it is going to be a night game).

[The Ramp]

Right next to the P-MAC; on the East side. No, not tailgating (unless something changes since it is going to be a night game).

ahhh....u suck. i might swing by one gameday. i'll be the one drunk in a LSU cap prolly peeing in public. can't miss me:thumpsup:

[BAMAPERRY]

Nice, you have aligned yourself with BamaPerry, the Wizzard of Odd. You would do well to explore Perrilloux's experiential background. He is a devastating runner. But one of the most remarkable things about him is that he can throw strikes while on the full run. Not only is Kodi Burns not even in the competition with RL, I would say that The Barn has NEVER had a QB in this category.
:thumpsup:

According to his resume, the cops timed him doing a 4.45 40 with a new TV under one arm and a baseball bat in the other! :laugh:

[GeauxTo]

According to his resume, the cops timed him doing a 4.45 40 with a new TV under one arm and a baseball bat in the other! :laugh:

Oh yeah, that too.:laugh:

[FanninFan]

Nice, you have aligned yourself with BamaPerry, the Wizard of Odd. You would do well to explore Perrilloux's experiential background. He is a devastating runner. But one of the most remarkable things about him is that he can throw strikes while on the full run. Not only is Kodi Burns not even in the competition with RL, I would say that The Barn has NEVER had a QB in this category.
:thumpsup:

You're right. Perilloux is a better QB than Jason Campbell, or even Heisman trophy winner Pat Sullivan to boot. That is, assuming he's eligible to play.

[BAMAPERRY]

LSUs problem is Defense. Minus the La. Tech game, they gave up an average of 30 points a game their last 8 games. Not good.

[timNem]

LSUs problem is Defense. Minus the La. Tech game, they gave up an average of 30 points a game their last 8 games. Not good.
I think part of that problem took the job at Nebraska but I could be wrong.

[the Prodigy]

IT kind of sucks for people who want to predict how teams will do in the SEC. Because you are going to piss someone off. Two weeks ago the entire representative Georgia fan base on here thought I hated their program. Now they are high-fiving me and +reping me because I said they have the best shot of winning the SEC. Did my opinion magically change? No.

Now I've got Ole Miss and SC fans pissed for some reason. Sorry, someone is going to lose next season. I wish that all these teams would pan out. They won't. Auburn is going to get a rude awakening, they aren't as nearly complete a team as they thought they were. And Ole Miss is about to find out why they are still a LONG way from being above .500 in the SEC. And SC is about to find out that they aren't nearly as talented as they thought they were.

Someone has to lose. People are going to continue to think that the best case scenario is the truth in their team's case. But it almost never is. Be objective and you will start to see just why I say the things I say. Quit focusing on how I say them and just take it for what it is, an honest and balanced assessment of your team.

[reese]

Georgia fan base on here thought I hated their program. Now they are high-fiving me and +reping me because I said they have the best shot of winning the SEC. Did my opinion magically change? No.

.


or mabe we agree with u about this and disagreed with what u were sayin 2 weeks ago.

[the Prodigy]

Maybe, but what I'm saying hasn't changed. I've been saying the same things for like 2 months now, but earlier you couldn't look past the criticisms, which were and are valid. I didn't really say anything new here. I didn't mention Richt or any players. But what I said here and what I've been saying for the past 2 months is the same and legitimate.

[reese]

Maybe, but what I'm saying hasn't changed. I've been saying the same things for like 2 months now, but earlier you couldn't look past the criticisms, which were and are valid. I didn't really say anything new here. I didn't mention Richt or any players. But what I said here and what I've been saying for the past 2 months is the same and legitimate.

and i still disagree with what u say about richt

[JerryBeeds]

I have zero expectations for this season and it feels phenomenal.

[MBGamecock]

I expect SC to win one game. On August 29th I'll update my expectations.

[MillDawg007]

The only thing i disagree with and that is from the original post is that we have the best shot to win the SEC this season. We may have the best team coming back next year, but our schedule doesnt give us the best shot at winning the SEC this season. I think out of the East UT has an easier schedule than UGA and UF. Scheduling has alot to do in my mind with our expectations. Loosing two games wouldnt upset me that much as long as it comes with an SEC championship. I expect UGA to be a horse all season, competitive and in the talks of the SEC championship. The NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP comes with a lot of luck, we have the talent sure, but without the luck a national championship isnt our main priority. My main priority is GASouthern. One game at a time.

[WDavE]

I am kind of worried now.....

Looking down the pages of responses.

Auburn does not have an offensive line: Although three of the starters made several All-American Freshmen teams. Green and Bosley will most likely make one of the three Preseason SEC teams this year.

Auburn doesn't have wideouts: Even though we didn't lose one starter from last year and most on the depth chart are soph. or less. Four or five are 4-star recruits from years passed. I think their level of play up to this point has been indicative of the QB play we had.

TE: Wasn't mentioned but we have two people who have started returning. Both are very good.

RB's: We have all our RB's coming back that netted 2005 yards last year. Then add to the mix Tristain Davis who was out for the most of last year. Yet, we have none compared to others.....

QB: I can agree to lets wait to see here.

FB: We graduated our starter but we won't run with one very often any more.

D-Line: We lost two starters. But evidently we're the only ones who doesn't have anyone ready to go here. Marks moves back inside where he was named to the SEC freshman two years ago. DE's mostly return because Groves missed alot of games last year due to injury. Ricks and Blanc will make a push to replace "Stump". Add a 5-star DE from JUCO.

LB's: All return and everyone is healthy. At one time or another 6 different LB's started a game for us last year and all return. Three are now soph's.

DB's: In reality (something foreign to many), three starters return here. Powers CB started all the games. Etheridge S started all the games. Savage S/CB started 3 games (Savage had actually beaten out Brock as starting safety before getting injured.)
McNeil S played meaningful time in every game.


After reading everybodies opinion and keeping in mind all the new co-oridinators we hired new. I just hope we can hang with Vandy.

[FanninFan]

IT kind of sucks for people who want to predict how teams will do in the SEC. Because you are going to piss someone off. Two weeks ago the entire representative Georgia fan base on here thought I hated their program. Now they are high-fiving me and +reping me because I said they have the best shot of winning the SEC. Did my opinion magically change? No.

Now I've got Ole Miss and SC fans pissed for some reason. Sorry, someone is going to lose next season. I wish that all these teams would pan out. They won't. Auburn is going to get a rude awakening, they aren't as nearly complete a team as they thought they were. And Ole Miss is about to find out why they are still a LONG way from being above .500 in the SEC. And SC is about to find out that they aren't nearly as talented as they thought they were.

Someone has to lose. People are going to continue to think that the best case scenario is the truth in their team's case. But it almost never is. Be objective and you will start to see just why I say the things I say. Quit focusing on how I say them and just take it for what it is, an honest and balanced assessment of your team.

Touching, but sounds very "corso-like" :ph34r:

[Tider27]

I am kind of worried now.....

Looking down the pages of responses.

Auburn does not have an offensive line: Although three of the starters made several All-American Freshmen teams. Green and Bosley will most likely make one of the three Preseason SEC teams this year.

Auburn doesn't have wideouts: Even though we didn't lose one starter from last year and most on the depth chart are soph. or less. Four or five are 4-star recruits from years passed. I think their level of play up to this point has been indicative of the QB play we had.

TE: Wasn't mentioned but we have two people who have started returning. Both are very good.

RB's: We have all our RB's coming back that netted 2005 yards last year. Then add to the mix Tristain Davis who was out for the most of last year. Yet, we have none compared to others.....

QB: I can agree to lets wait to see here.

FB: We graduated our starter but we won't run with one very often any more.

D-Line: We lost two starters. But evidently we're the only ones who doesn't have anyone ready to go here. Marks moves back inside where he was named to the SEC freshman two years ago. DE's mostly return because Groves missed alot of games last year due to injury. Ricks and Blanc will make a push to replace "Stump". Add a 5-star DE from JUCO.

LB's: All return and everyone is healthy. At one time or another 6 different LB's started a game for us last year and all return. Three are now soph's.

DB's: In reality (something foreign to many), three starters return here. Powers CB started all the games. Etheridge S started all the games. Savage S/CB started 3 games (Savage had actually beaten out Brock as starting safety before getting injured.)
McNeil S played meaningful time in every game.


After reading everybodies opinion and keeping in mind all the new co-oridinators we hired new. I just hope we can hang with Vandy.


Sounds like you should be worried to me. :lol:

[azamugg]

I have zero expectations for this season and it feels phenomenal.


into the Calgon again

[JerryBeeds]

into the Calgon again

Your mother.:ph34r:

[OleMissPike]

Touching, but sounds very "corso-like" :ph34r:

As in commenting on things with little prior knowledge

[the Prodigy]

Touching, but sounds very "corso-like" :ph34r:

well you are more than welcome to do your own. I feel like I have a good reason to back up everything I've said about every team. You don't like my reasons because they don't fit into your nice little picture of Auburn being this offensive Juggernaut. They won't be, I assure you.

[crimsonnation713]

Nicely done. Realistic appraisals of each team, IMO.
The only assessment with which I strongly disagree is Alabama. I do not think they will be any better (record wise) this year than last. Miss State will very likely beat them again, and watch out for Ole Miss; they, too, could beat the Bammers. Then, there are the usual suspects to whom Bama will lose: LSU, Tennessee, Georgia, and Auburn. Also, Clemson could beat the Bammers.
So, another 6-6 season (or worse) is a strong possibility for the Nickster.

damn ...this was a shocking post....:rolleyes:

[Tider27]

damn ...this was a shocking post....:rolleyes:

GeauxTo saying Alabama will be horrible next season is starting to sound like BP saying we're gonna win the SEC.:ph34r:

[FanninFan]

well you are more than welcome to do your own. I feel like I have a good reason to back up everything I've said about every team. You don't like my reasons because they don't fit into your nice little picture of Auburn being this offensive Juggernaut. They won't be, I assure you.

Okay, I openly invite you to quote one of my posts as predicting Auburn to be an offensive juggernaut. Seems to me, I'm just saying we have several players with the potential to be very competitive in the future.

[FanninFan]

As in commenting on things with little prior knowledge

That, and he's giving his Fox News-like "fair and balanced, unbiased" assessment of every team.

[GeauxTo]

damn ...this was a shocking post....:rolleyes:

Yeah... shockingly prophetic!:laugh:

[the Prodigy]

That, and he's giving his Fox News-like "fair and balanced, unbiased" assessment of every team.

See, the fact that Georgia fans agree with my post blows your whole theory out of the water. I'm not being biased. Prove the bias. There isn't one, case closed.

[FanninFan]

See, the fact that Georgia fans agree with my post blows your whole theory out of the water. I'm not being biased. Prove the bias. There isn't one, case closed.

Your bias is that you've made up your mind that Auburn will have a lesser team next year, with no evidence to prove it. And if you are going to ask me to prove something, try responding to my posts first. I specifically asked you to quote me saying that Auburn will be an offensive juggernaut. Until you do, I'm going to quit responding to your stupid posts.

[the Prodigy]

Your bias is that you've made up your mind that Auburn will have a lesser team next year, with no evidence to prove it. And if you are going to ask me to prove something, try responding to my posts first. I specifically asked you to quote me saying that Auburn will be an offensive juggernaut. Until you do, I'm going to quit responding to your stupid posts.

That is the impression I keep getting, that little video in the AU forum says, "Offensive Records will be Broken." Please. Give me a break.

And as for you saying I'm not giving any facts to back it up. That is just silly. I've given facts upon facts upon facts, with some stats smothered on top.

The fact is that AU isn't complete, the only position that they THINK they are complete at struggled HEAVILY last season. There is only one game last season AU fans can point to so as to defend the theory that they will have immediate offensive success this season. Kodi Burns hasn't even won the starting job yet, and you are anointing him the next Vince Young.... AU has TWO new Coordinators. The chances that both of them will have immediate success is almost a fantasy. The more likely scenario is that which is currently being acted out by your own team. They are struggling to adapt, at times looking good but for the most part struggling with assignments and development.

I'm being reasonable. You just look silly.

[FanninFan]

That is the impression I keep getting, that little video in the AU forum says, "Offensive Records will be Broken." Please. Give me a break.

And as for you saying I'm not giving any facts to back it up. That is just silly. I've given facts upon facts upon facts, with some stats smothered on top.

The fact is that AU isn't complete, the only position that they THINK they are complete at struggled HEAVILY last season. There is only one game last season AU fans can point to so as to defend the theory that they will have immediate offensive success this season. Kodi Burns hasn't even won the starting job yet, and you are anointing him the next Vince Young.... AU has TWO new Coordinators. The chances that both of them will have immediate success is almost a fantasy. The more likely scenario is that which is currently being acted out by your own team. They are struggling to adapt, at times looking good but for the most part struggling with assignments and development.

I'm being reasonable. You just look silly.

Okay, tell me why these positions aren't complete:

WR- Billings, Dunn, Trott, Smith, Zachary, and at times Fannin and Lester. They're all solid. Not spectacular. But they've proven they can compete. Hence late in games against Florida, Clemson, and Arkansas, when they ate up tons of yardage in a hurry to set up field goals and short touchdowns. They can get the job done.

RB- Lester will probably be one of the best in the SEC next year. This new offense allows him to get in 1 on 1 situations, and run in the open field. Tate is a bruiser, and can carry well up the middle. Fannin can do both, and catch well. All three can make receptions out of the backfield, and create problems for SS's and OLB's.

OL- 5 starters return. All 3 Freshman were Freshman All-SEC picks, and Ziemba was Freshman All-American. They will be in simpler blocking schemes this season, and Bosley will be starting his 3rd year at Center. After struggling in their first 3 games, as is expected when you start 3 freshman in front of a QB who isn't mobile, they finished strong.

QB- Burns should flourish under this offense. If his passing improves, he will have several good targets to look to, an OL to provide him with protection, and the wheels to get yards as an alternative method. Or designed if he wants. Todd will provide good competition as well, he has already proven he can use this system. He proved in HS, he proved in JUCO, and he wouldn't be recruited by Texas Tech if he couldn't. Franklin wouldn't offer him a job either if he wasn't very talented.

Offensive Coordinator- Tony Franklin is a step up from Al Borges, and the offense should be much improved, once it gets it's feet under it. Remember, they posted well after only 9 days of practice before the Peach Bowl.

The possibiliy for Passing records, yardage records, and scoring records to be broken is very real. They won't be breaking NCAA or even SEC records, but this should be a very good offense by Auburn's standards. And you could do alot worse that our standards, we're just a very historically conservative offense. We have always relied heavily on defense to win games. Auburn has never had this type of offense, and we have talented enough players to make it work. Expect them only to improve as the year goes on.

8 starters return on Offense

DB- Powers, McFadden, Williams, Savage, and Etheridge all return. Etheridge started all year, and was Freshman All-American. Powers also proved to be just as impressive, and quicker. The overall reaction from the coaches at this position has been very positive.

DL- Antonio Coleman and Sen'Derrick Marks are both very good D lineman. We also experimented some with different guys, especially late in the season when Groves was hurt, and playing LB. Raven Gray is a 5 star JUCO transfer, and should be a good addition, and Michael Goggins played quite a bit last season.

LB- The whole LB corps returns. Tray Blackmon is the best in the SEC, and Craig Stevens is very good, also. Chris Evans also posted very good numbers last year.

DC- We should be fine with a new coordinator. Take this pattern for example-

D was good under Chizik
Chizik left
D was good under Muschamp
Muschamp left
D is looking good this spring under Rhoads.

We shouldn't have much weakness defensively. Simply put, if you're playing Defense at Auburn, you're pretty damn good.

8 starters return on Defense

If you're team could claim that good a returning team, you would be singing an entirely different tune. That's the bias. You're just denying what can be plainly seen.

And your comment on Burns and Franklin having immediate success being a fantasy, take a look at last year's Peach Bowl. There's nothing like realizing your fantasy has become a reality. You've proven to me your inability to put together a good argument. Now fulfill my request of quoting me saying Auburn will be an offensive juggernaut.

Thanks for taking the time to read this silly post...

[FanninFan]

Okay, go ahead Prodigy...

:rant:

[the Prodigy]

Okay, tell me why these positions aren't complete:

WR- Billings, Dunn, Trott, Smith, Zachary, and at times Fannin and Lester. They're all solid. Not spectacular. But they've proven they can compete. Hence late in games against Florida, Clemson, and Arkansas, when they ate up tons of yardage in a hurry to set up field goals and short touchdowns. They can get the job done.

RB- Lester will probably be one of the best in the SEC next year. This new offense allows him to get in 1 on 1 situations, and run in the open field. Tate is a bruiser, and can carry well up the middle. Fannin can do both, and catch well. All three can make receptions out of the backfield, and create problems for SS's and OLB's.

OL- 5 starters return. All 3 Freshman were Freshman All-SEC picks, and Ziemba was Freshman All-American. They will be in simpler blocking schemes this season, and Bosley will be starting his 3rd year at Center. After struggling in their first 3 games, as is expected when you start 3 freshman in front of a QB who isn't mobile, they finished strong.

QB- Burns should flourish under this offense. If his passing improves, he will have several good targets to look to, an OL to provide him with protection, and the wheels to get yards as an alternative method. Or designed if he wants. Todd will provide good competition as well, he has already proven he can use this system. He proved in HS, he proved in JUCO, and he wouldn't be recruited by Texas Tech if he couldn't. Franklin wouldn't offer him a job either if he wasn't very talented.

Offensive Coordinator- Tony Franklin is a step up from Al Borges, and the offense should be much improved, once it gets it's feet under it. Remember, they posted well after only 9 days of practice before the Peach Bowl.

The possibiliy for Passing records, yardage records, and scoring records to be broken is very real. They won't be breaking NCAA or even SEC records, but this should be a very good offense by Auburn's standards. And you could do alot worse that our standards, we're just a very historically conservative offense. We have always relied heavily on defense to win games. Auburn has never had this type of offense, and we have talented enough players to make it work. Expect them only to improve as the year goes on.

8 starters return on Offense

DB- Powers, McFadden, Williams, Savage, and Etheridge all return. Etheridge started all year, and was Freshman All-American. Powers also proved to be just as impressive, and quicker. The overall reaction from the coaches at this position has been very positive.

DL- Antonio Coleman and Sen'Derrick Marks are both very good D lineman. We also experimented some with different guys, especially late in the season when Groves was hurt, and playing LB. Raven Gray is a 5 star JUCO transfer, and should be a good addition, and Michael Goggins played quite a bit last season.

LB- The whole LB corps returns. Tray Blackmon is the best in the SEC, and Craig Stevens is very good, also. Chris Evans also posted very good numbers last year.

DC- We should be fine with a new coordinator. Take this pattern for example-

D was good under Chizik
Chizik left
D was good under Muschamp
Muschamp left
D is looking good this spring under Rhoads.

We shouldn't have much weakness defensively. Simply put, if you're playing Defense at Auburn, you're pretty damn good.

8 starters return on Defense

If you're team could claim that good a returning team, you would be singing an entirely different tune. That's the bias. You're just denying what can be plainly seen.

And your comment on Burns and Franklin having immediate success being a fantasy, take a look at last year's Peach Bowl. There's nothing like realizing your fantasy has become a reality. You've proven to me your inability to put together a good argument. Now fulfill my request of quoting me saying Auburn will be an offensive juggernaut.

Thanks for taking the time to read this silly post...

It is silly, I wish I hadn't taken the time to read it. It's extremely homeristic and in 6 months won't be the least bit realistic. The possibility to break records is NOT very real, it's a fantasy - thought up by the "bright young minds" of the AU fan base.

Be realisitic. Take 90% of your excitement and throw it away. What you have left will be a reasonably, but still homeristic, take on what AU football will actually look like next season. You'll find that the outlook is bleak. And average at best.

[FanninFan]

It is silly, I wish I hadn't taken the time to read it. It's extremely homeristic and in 6 months won't be the least bit realistic. The possibility to break records is NOT very real, it's a fantasy - thought up by the "bright young minds" of the AU fan base.

Be realisitic. Take 90% of your excitement and throw it away. What you have left will be a reasonably, but still homeristic, take on what AU football will actually look like next season. You'll find that the outlook is bleak. And average at best.

Well, tell me why I have no reason to be optimistic. And tell me why this offense can't break records. Tell me why Florida and Georgia can return starters and be touted as a championship contender, but we can return starters and have no chance. Back up some of your talk, already or quit running your head.

[jthomas666]

Well, tell me why I have no reason to be optimistic. And tell me why this offense can't break records. Tell me why Florida and Georgia can return starters and be touted as a championship contender, but we can return starters and have no chance. Back up some of your talk, already or quit running your head.Can the offense break records? Sure. How likely is it? Different story. It's the same with vying for a championship.

Georgia and Florida both have proven quarterbacks in established offenses.

Auburn will have a new starter in a completely new offense. You've got a lot of talent, but that talent was recruited for a different type of offense.

Given those factors, It's understandable that some people are not going to be particularly bullish on Auburn. That does not mean that you might not prove them wrong, either.

[jthomas666]

That, and he's giving his Fox News-like "fair and balanced, unbiased" assessment of every team.Of course, Fox News is about as fair and balanced as a game of three card monte.

[ColonelKurtz]

Well, tell me why I have no reason to be optimistic. And tell me why this offense can't break records. Tell me why Florida and Georgia can return starters and be touted as a championship contender, but we can return starters and have no chance. Back up some of your talk, already or quit running your head.

I sure won't tell you not to be optimistic and I too await pink lemonade's reply.....your analysis was well done until you referred to Blackmon as the best LB in the SEC. He ain't.

Auburn will either win the West or decide who does.

[WDavE]

There are only a couple of things that I would be willing to bet on at this time.

1. In 2008, we will not finish 97th in the nation in total offense like we did in 2007.
2. In 2008, we will not finish 103rd in passing offense
3. In 2008, we will not finish the year ranked 6th in total defense like we did in 2007. But the drop off will not be as bad as many here think.

Now, what will our finish be in the west or what will our record be? I don't see it being worse then last year with some potential for being even better.

[azamugg]

I sure won't tell you not to be optimistic and I too await pink lemonade's reply.....your analysis was well done until you referred to Blackmon as the best LB in the SEC. He ain't.

Auburn will either win the West or decide who does.



I would trade around 20 players on our team for Blackmon, his untimely injuries and a discipline issue or two are the only reasons this guy isnt a household name.............if he stays healthy and out of the doghouse this could be a huge year for him.............dude is an animal

[WDavE]

It might fun to watch our linebackers this year... Bynes is pushing Blackmon at MLB. There is some speculation that if he continues to do so that Blackmon will move outside.

Outside is where Blackmon needs to be.....

[ColonelKurtz]

I would trade around 20 players on our team for Blackmon, his untimely injuries and a discipline issue or two are the only reasons this guy isnt a household name.............if he stays healthy and out of the doghouse this could be a huge year for him.............dude is an animal


I would trade around 20 players on our team for Blackmon

You would as Bama is very thin there. Trey is good but the SEC's best right now if he can come back from injury is Brinkley of SCU, imho.

My knock on Trey is his durability and his deportment, which can only improve.

[BAMAPERRY]

I'll take McClain over Blackmon any day.

[Tider27]

I'll take McClain over Blackmon any day.

Only because he has a year(or two?) on him. Blackmon is a beast. :ph34r:

[*bama boy*]

I'll take McClain over Blackmon any day.

only because your an idiot. Blackmon is great as long as he is staying out of trouble. McClain is hard hitter but not that smart of a player. he learns the signals and everthing and he will be better than Blackmon.

[FanninFan]

You would as Bama is very thin there. Trey is good but the SEC's best right now if he can come back from injury is Brinkley of SCU, imho.

My knock on Trey is his durability and his deportment, which can only improve.

True, Brinkley is very good. Tray has struggled with some injuries and discipline, but if he comes back full steam, I think he'll be the best in the SEC. Just my opinion, though.

[crimsonnation713]

Yeah... shockingly prophetic!:laugh:

Just as prophetic as you singing our praises last year and even stating we would beat AU. You're a regular Nostradamus. :thumpsup:

[FanninFan]

Would that make him "Geauxstradamus"?

[FanninFan]

Prodigy, you called me out and said I was overblowing Auburn's future, now I'm calling you out and asking you to tell me why this offense can't break records. Tell me why Florida and Georgia can return starters and be touted as a championship contender, but we can return starters and have no chance. And tell me why we are weak at the positions I assessed for you earlier.

[GeauxTo]

Just as prophetic as you singing our praises last year and even stating we would beat AU. You're a regular Nostradamus. :thumpsup:

Yep, you guys let me down last year. I expected something.:laugh:

[FanninFan]

Alright, Prodigy... I want to make one last call for you before I give up on ya. Come on man, I'm itchin' for a fight... :box::chair::twak:

[BAMAPERRY]

only because your an idiot. Blackmon is great as long as he is staying out of trouble. McClain is hard hitter but not that smart of a player. he learns the signals and everthing and he will be better than Blackmon.

Hey douchebag, why doesn't your barner ass quit pretending to be a Bama fan? Blackmon is a criminal thug.

[MBGamecock]

I'm gonna pull up a chair and pour another drink. Or pull another drink and pour up a chair.

[WDavE]

Hey douchebag, why doesn't your barner ass quit pretending to be a Bama fan? Blackmon is a criminal thug.

Suspicion of drinking and driving? Not a DUI because he was not operating the vehicle when the officer stopped.

In comparison, yours must be on the FBI Most Wanted then...

[the Prodigy]

Prodigy, you called me out and said I was overblowing Auburn's future, now I'm calling you out and asking you to tell me why this offense can't break records. Tell me why Florida and Georgia can return starters and be touted as a championship contender, but we can return starters and have no chance. And tell me why we are weak at the positions I assessed for you earlier.

Because their starters, statistically, mentally, physically, proved that they have what it takes to win their division. Auburn's returning starters were most often horrible statistically, often looked over-matched physically, and when it came to mental toughness fell through the cracks more often than not (South Florida, MSU, etc).

AU's receivers didn't look special last season. The fact that they are a veteran squad does nothing for me, when they were so pedestrian last season.

AU's offensive line was sloppy last season, the were horrible statistically. And the fact that they made some all-freshmen teams does nothing for me. Every freshmen who starts in the SEC on a non-sp teams squad earns an all-freshmen spot.

AU's QB's are unproven.... do we need to go over this?

AU's secondary is depleted.

AU is strong at LB, that is about it.

AU lost Groves as well as another Junior DL to the Draft.

[Tider27]

Suspicion of drinking and driving? Not a DUI because he was not operating the vehicle when the officer stopped.

In comparison, yours must be on the FBI Most Wanted then...

Please do not compare McClain to Blackmon when it comes to getting in trouble. Although Blackmon is the better player, McClain shows no off the field problems...while Blackmon speaks for hisself. :thumpsup:

McClain is the shiz...*See sig for further conformation*. :D

[FanninFan]

Because their starters, statistically, mentally, physically, proved that have what it takes to win their division. Auburn's returning starters were most often horrible statistically, often looked over-matched physically, and when it came to mental toughness fell through the cracks more often than not (South Florida, MSU, etc).

AU's receivers didn't look special last season. The fact that they are a veteran squad does nothing for me, when they were so pedestrian last season.

AU's offensive line was sloppy last season, the were horrible statistically. And the fact that they made some all-freshmen teams does nothing for me. Every freshmen who starts in the SEC on a non-sp teams squad earns an all-freshmen spot.

AU's QB's are unproven.... do we need to go over this?

AU's secondary is depleted.

AU is strong at LB, that is about it.

AU lost Groves as well as another Junior DL to the Draft.

Calm down now, you're so mad you can't even type correctly. I can't even comprehend that first sentence. :read::icon_rofl

You kept naming statistics, statistics, statistics... games aren't played on paper my friend. They're played on a 300X160 field.

The SF and MSU games were 2 of the freshman's first 3 games of the year. Give em a break already. They were fine after that, they were just too far behind statistically to recover.

Our recievers weren't Mario Manningham or Earl Bennett. They just made catches, and picked up yards. And they kept us in alot of big games. If you can't see that, log on to YouTube and watch some Auburn/Florida, Auburn/Arkansas, Auburn/Alabama, or Auburn/Clemson videos. Then tell me they're no good.

I don't know how you figure our secondary is depleted. Please elaborate on that a little bit.

Our D line will be fine, with 2 of the better DE's in the conference in Coleman and Marks. Ricks, Blanc, and Clayton have all shown promise, and Ricks will likely step in at DE should Marks move inside.

And we're obviously not going to come to any conclusion as far as the QB's are concerned. We'll just leave that at the door.

[the Prodigy]

They aren't any good. What did AU rank in passing yards last season?

[the Prodigy]

You lose half of your starters in the secondary. Same with your DL.

You keep talking about players who haven't played week in and week out in this conference, like they have. You need to prepare yourself for the cold reality that a lot of these players won't pan out the way you hope.

[NiKka]

It always gets fans riled up when you take a position at which their team is strongest and say it could be better. I understand your frustration. It would be like someone saying Arkansas' OL could be stronger back in 06, it's true but a lot of people would have taken exception to that statement.

But in Ole Miss's case it is the truth. You are correct, QB play had some to do with Ole Miss's very average WR stats. But I also noticed Ole Miss's receivers have issues creating separation, and you can forget about the long ball, they couldn't get off the line fast enough to beat the upper echelon SEC CB's. In the Arkansas game especially, Ole Miss's receivers had issues in just about everything, and Arkansas wasn't really that strong in the secondary. But that was one game. And one game does not a season make.

I don't buy teams who are great when things are easy. How do they do under adversity, when they aren't on the top of their game. Last season, in those situations, Ole Miss was helpless. Their WR's looked just as helpless as the rest of the team. Sorry, that is how I see, it. It's not like Ole Miss had the no.1 and 2 receivers in the conference despite being mediocre or worse in the other categories.

They must improve, that is what I'm telling you, not that they were terrible last season. Calm down.

Emerging WR's aswell.. Markeith Summers <- Remember that guy & Lionel Breaux are looking very good.. That makes us 6 to 7 deep at WR
now you say that they must improve & I agree but to say that they're just average is what anyone that doesn't WATCH the game would say based off judgement. I've watched Snead in last years spring game and he looked like he had amazing potential now Nutt has been quoted saying Jevan Snead is the best he has had in the past few years and has a very good arm. i'm pretty confident that our receivers will have a great opportunity at showing Arkansas's less than average secondary how "very average" they are

[the Prodigy]

Emerging WR's aswell.. Markeith Summers <- Remember that guy & Lionel Breaux are looking very good.. That makes us 6 to 7 deep at WR
now you say that they must improve & I agree but to say that they're just average is what anyone that doesn't WATCH the game would say based off judgement. I've watched Snead in last years spring game and he looked like he had amazing potential now Nutt has been quoted saying Jevan Snead is the best he has had in the past few years and has a very good arm. i'm pretty confident that our receivers will have a great opportunity at showing Arkansas's less than average secondary how "very average" they are


And these are word's used by someone who doesn't actually KNOW anything. This is Speculative at best.

And in the end, you say "how 'very average' (Arkansas secondary players) are." Now, I know you don't know more about the Razorbacks than I do, and I'm not trying to pretend that they will be anything special. But given the history of our respective position, coordinator, and head coaches. I'd say the chances of Arkansas taking green DB's and making them skilled veterans is better than Ole Miss's staff turning a transfer QB and some lazy, albeit talented, recievers into something special. Trust me, Nutt was our coach for 10 years. I know what I'm talking about. Things aren't going to change because he went to a new school. Ole Miss may come out hot, but at the first sign of adversity things will go south, and the players will realize that while they all like the guy, his lack of disciplinary training, and hard work ethic does not breed endurance.

[BAMA NATE]

It looks like expectations and predictions for '08 will be as entertaining as ever.

Geaux...you will never give it up will you? LSU has already been as good as it is going to get under Miles which is sad because that can only mean we won't have the pleasure of watching his goofy a$$ for many more years. If y'all aint got Ryan back then you have no season. Unlike LSU...Alabama just experienced their worst possible season under Nick Saban. While the Tide will not likely have a great season, expect a solid improvement and expect at least one of those rivalry losing streaks to come to an end. Auburn will be typical Auburn as they churn out 7 or 8 wins and stay satisfied with doing nothing. Kodi Burns will be the most hated man in Auburn much like Brandon Cox by midseason and will get benched at least twice. UGA will win the SEC but not the MNC. Thats all I care to type for now.

[Kylehunter85]

I'll put our True freshman group of WR's against Auburn's starting lineup. :lol:

I'll also put our secondary up against yours, mainly our All-SEC safety Rashad Johnson and Freshman All-SEC CB Kareem Jackson. :thumpsup:

Now let me hear that six in a row comeback.

Screw the six in a row comeback, have you seen any of these freshmen take the field yet? No! Stars in front of a player's name mean nothing until he is proven in a game. (and i don't mean a high school game, because that is not even close to the same thing as a college game)

[Tider27]

Screw the six in a row comeback, have you seen any of these freshmen take the field yet? No! Stars in front of a player's name mean nothing until he is proven in a game. (and i don't mean a high school game, because that is not even close to the same thing as a college game)

I don't give a flying s***. I'll take my unexperienced WR's over your starting 3 any day and thats the damn truth!!! Because in a year they'll be All-SEC competitors while one of yours will be graduated and doormats of the SEC.

[the Prodigy]

Screw the six in a row comeback, have you seen any of these freshmen take the field yet? No! Stars in front of a player's name mean nothing until he is proven in a game. (and i don't mean a high school game, because that is not even close to the same thing as a college game)

You might want to look at your own team first. If you think this applies to Bama, Arkansas, and NOT Auburn, then you are sorely mistaken.

[azamugg]

Nicely done. Realistic appraisals of each team, IMO.
The only assessment with which I strongly disagree is Alabama. I do not think they will be any better (record wise) this year than last. Miss State will very likely beat them again, and watch out for Ole Miss; they, too, could beat the Bammers. Then, there are the usual suspects to whom Bama will lose: LSU, Tennessee, Georgia, and Auburn. Also, Clemson could beat the Bammers.
So, another 6-6 season (or worse) is a strong possibility for the Nickster.


very accurate as usual, no blind homerism, just good football logic........us Tide fans said A MILLION TIMES, how could we lose to LSU on a last second play, lose to UGA in OT, etc, etc, field a better team in 'O8 and fit that post above?

9 wins for Bama would be great. But in order to achieve that, we need JPW to step up and get over the puppy love issues he had last year. If he does that then our offense could be very solid. Our defensive depth chart in the Spring is scary. We only have 3 DEs on scholarship and we have some depth issue at LB as well. We had these same issues 1 year ago but our defense turned out to be the strong point of our team.
If these two things work in our favor, I think we can improve this season. There have been some promising signs that JPW has become the vocal leader of the team. Last year, that wasn't the case.


this is an example of good sound reasonble logic.........and by a Tider no less


It looks like expectations and predictions for '08 will be as entertaining as ever.

Geaux...you will never give it up will you? LSU has already been as good as it is going to get under Miles which is sad because that can only mean we won't have the pleasure of watching his goofy a$$ for many more years. Unlike LSU...Alabama just experienced their worst possible season under Nick Saban. While the Tide will not likely have a great season, expect a solid improvement and expect at least one of those rivalry losing streaks to come to an end. Auburn will be typical Auburn as they churn out 7 or 8 wins and stay satisfied with doing nothing. Kodi Burns will be the most hated man in Auburn much like Brandon Cox by midseason and will get benched at least twice. UGA will win the SEC but not the MNC. Thats all I care to type for now.


and for LSU fans, sadly you just read the thoughts of a prophet

[nooneLT]

Nicely done. Realistic appraisals of each team, IMO.
The only assessment with which I strongly disagree is Alabama. I do not think they will be any better (record wise) this year than last. Miss State will very likely beat them again, and watch out for Ole Miss; they, too, could beat the Bammers. Then, there are the usual suspects to whom Bama will lose: LSU, Tennessee, Georgia, and Auburn. Also, Clemson could beat the Bammers.
So, another 6-6 season (or worse) is a strong possibility for the Nickster.

LOL!~

I love these old threads.

[the Paradox]

Screw the six in a row comeback, have you seen any of these freshmen take the field yet? No! Stars in front of a player's name mean nothing until he is proven in a game. (and i don't mean a high school game, because that is not even close to the same thing as a college game)

How did that work out for ya?


RTR

[the Prodigy]

Other than Vanderbilt I pretty much nailed every single team.

[PuddingTime]

Other than Vanderbilt I pretty much nailed every single team.

Eh? :

KENTUCKY:

Expectations – Beat Louisville
What would Exceeding expectations look like? - Have a winning record
What would Failing to meet expectations look like? – Losing to Temple


MY TAKE: UK has to have production from their ground game if they want to be competitive next season.

While you're not wrong here (other than Temple....they wanted out so we replaced them WKU....but it's the same thing....we would've been pissed) it just sounds like you felt like UK fans expectations were low. I didn't just expect to beat Louisville, I expected to make a bowl game and win at least 6-7 games. I sure as hell didn't expect us to be in a position to win 8 games in the regular season and beat UT, which we are in a position to do.

So I'm not saying you were wrong, you weren't, just that you seemed to downplay our expectations a bit.

We have, w/out a doubt, exceeded my expectations this season. A victory over the Vols will be icing on a sweet, sweet cake.