The Auburn Plainsman 08.13.15 issue

August 13, 2015 PAGE

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160 Ross Fire

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

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Thursday, August 13, 2015

Table of Contents

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 21

Welcome Letters Letter from the Editor What you missed this summer 160 Ross fire Things to do in Auburn Auburn construction Campus safety Summer adventures Campus Dining map Jule Collins Smih memorial Organizing your living space Student Guide to University NAACP March Austin Phillips tribute Sports Section

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

22 From the Sports Editor 23 What you missed in sports 24 Looking for leadership 26 Scoreboard banners removed 27 Running back competition 28-29 Fall practice photos 30 Upcoming Freshman 31 Jeremy Johnson profile 32-33 Football Roster 33 The team without Duke 34 Fall Practice recap 35 Cross country 37 Plainsman Picks 38 Volleyball / Soccer 39 Equestrian

9/30/15

The Auburn Plainsman 255 Heisman Drive, Suite 1111, AU Student Center Auburn, AL 36849 Newsroom - (334) 844-9108 Advertising - (334) 844-4130

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Welcome Week U A 2

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The Time of Our Lives

T1 3-22, 2015

Full Event Schedule A vailable on the Aubur n Guides App auburn.edu/welcomeweek

Saturday, August 15 2 pm

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Home Sweet Auburn Thursday, August 13 3 pm Greenspace

Monday, August 17 Doors Open 7:45 pm Student Center Ballroom

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Into the Future Glocade Friday, August 14 7 pm Student Center Ballroom

Auburn University is an equal opportunity educational institution/employer.

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Syrup & Swing Swing Dance Saturday, August 22 7 pm

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Thursday, August 13, 2015

5

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Welcome Letters

Letter from 2015-16 SGA President Walker Byrd

On behalf of your Student Government Association, our team would like to welcome each of you back to Auburn for another school year!

We could not be more excited to have you back on the Plains and cannot wait to see what this year has in store for you and our university.

You, the students, are what makes Auburn such a special place to go to school, so thank you in advance for all the ways in which you will better yourself, Auburn and your peers.

Our Student Government is honored to be working to create an even better Auburn experience for the student body.

This summer was a productive time for our team — we have worked hard

to tackle issues such as mental health, campus safety and the academic experience.

We’ve also worked to continually improve your game day experience, to ensure that international students at Auburn are receiving a proper orientation and to lay the groundwork for the Auburn Memorial project, among other projects, programs and initiatives.

As this next year begins, we are committed to continuing to use our positions to make progress on our priorities and goals; but our focus is serving you!

Know that we strive daily to be a resource for you as we seek to unify the student body, making sure that all Auburn students have a great Auburn ex-

perience.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

The best way to communicate with us is through Auburn Answers (www.auburnanswers.org), a feedback platform where you can submit your questions, comments and concerns.

We also want to hear from you in person. Our doors are always open! We want to ensure that your voice is at the forefront of any decision made here at Auburn University.

Our team is incredibly thankful to get to serve you over the next year, and we are grateful for the opportunity. We can’t wait to see what all this year has in store!

Paid for by the SGA.

Contributed by sGA

Walker Byrd was elected into office in February 2014.

Letter from University Provost Timothy Boosinger

Contributed by the Office of the provost

Timothy Boosinger has worked as provost since 2012.

War Eagle! I’m pleased to join with The Plainsman staff and our student leaders in welcoming you back to Auburn University.

I trust your summer break was productive and you are rested and ready to begin a new year.

We begin the academic year ahead with fresh optimism, but we are also carrying forward good work already begun. New beginnings and forward momentum define fall semesters here at Auburn.

While I am eager to build on our remarkable achievements, I am even more excited to collaborate with you on new academic goals for our institution.

This will be an important year for the future of Auburn University. We will see construction begin on some of our new academic buildings and the implementation of many new academic initiatives designed to enhance student success.

Despite all of these changes, I am

often reminded that one of Auburn’s core values is — and will always be — the quality of our student experience.

From my interactions with students, I know that the phrase “this is Auburn” carries real meaning for each of you.

As an institution, Auburn is often defined by our unique shared experiences, whether they be in the classroom, in student organizations, on Saturday afternoons in Jordan-Hare or — most importantly — in our daily interactions with one another.

In the coming year, I challenge each of you to define what this phrase truly means to you.

It may mean discovering a newfound level of engagement in your courses or perhaps engaging with a new faculty member.

It may mean becoming involved in a service organization or taking on a new leadership role.

It may mean engaging with someone whose background and life experiences are vastly different from your own.

However you define it, I encourage you to begin each day with the same steadfast commitment to your academic goals.

I also encourage you to seek help when you need it. It doesn’t matter if it is a professor or an on-campus resource — please doesn’t hesitate to ask.

I encourage you to share in the experiences of those around you. Remember, you possess the capacity to positively impact others with the gifts of your time and talents.

I encourage you to make 2015-16 your best year yet. This is your opportunity combine your passions with your classroom experiences and your love for Auburn.

Good Luck!

Paid for by the Office of the Provost.

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Letter from the editor

This paper is your voice, make the most of it Jim Little Editor@theplainsman.com

Welcome to your student newspaper.

The Auburn Plainsman has served as the voice of the students of Auburn University since it was first published in 1893 as the Orange and Blue.

Writers and editors put in countless hours each semester over the past 122 years to bring you a news product that you need and want.

I invite you, the reader, to let us know what you believe we should cover. What do you want to see in The Plainsman?

There’s a simple principle to decide the news judgment of this paper, which is, “Will our readers care?”

Do you care about Auburn Football?

Do you care about how the University is spending your tuition, and how the city of Auburn spends your tax money?

Do you care when your organization holds an event on campus that makes Auburn a great place to go to school?

Do you care when a powerful politician with deep connections to the University is indicted on ethics charges?

If you care, we care.

Twenty-four hours a day on ThePlainsman. com and every Thursday in racks across campus, we’ll bring to you the stories you care about in the most engaging way possible.

Last spring, Student Affairs dropped a bombshell on the students and advisers in Student Media when they announced the layoffs of all the advisers and the restructuring of Student Media.

The announcement took all five Student Media organizations by surprise. It was clear to

all of us that the decision had been made with no input for current students, and it resulted in the loss of more than 30 years of institutional memory at The Plainsman.

The loss of the advisers who guided students in making The Plainsman a National Pacemaker award winner, the top award in student journalism, for the first time in six years will be tough.

Since the announcement, Student Affairs has made up for their poor handling of the announcement by working closely with students involved in Student Media.

A search process that involved student leaders led to the selection of Alec Harvey, formerly of AL.com and The Birmingham News, as the editorial adviser for The Auburn Plainsman, The Glomerata and The Circle.

The staff of The Plainsman is excited to see what Harvey will bring with his years of experience in the state’s largest media company.

Our new remodeled newsroom, paid for by Student Affiars, is a physical reminder that as a news organization, The Plainsman needs to remodel itself and listen to its audience.

I invite you to come by our newsroom at any time and meet the students who work hard every week to bring you the news.

Our mission at The Plainsman is the same mission every reputable news organization across this country has.

We want to serve the public interest. Put the events that happen in our community into context for our audience, so they will be able to make more informed decisions.

If we criticize or call out the University, it’s because we love it, and we want it to live up to its creed.

For our part, we will live up to the line from the creed that appears on our masthead.

“A spirit that is not afraid.”

Jim Little is The Plainsman Editor-in-Chief.

JOIN AUBURN UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT MEDIA TEAM! All majors and levels of experience are welcome.

Eagle Eye TV www.eagleeyetv.com Carter–William Palek Station Manager

The Auburn Circle Literary Magazine

The Auburn Plainsman Newspaper

The Glomerata Yearbook

wp.auburn.edu/circle/ Jamie McClintock Editor–in–Chief

www.theplainsman.com Jim Little Editor–in–Chief

wp.auburn.edu/glomerata Amanda Annonio Editor–in–Chief

WEGL 91.1 FM wegl.auburn.edu Chris Williams Station Manager

For more information, please call 334-844-4057 or visit our offices in suites 1105 and 1111 in the Student Center.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

News recap

7

What you missed over the summer

file photos

Deon Graham qualified for the season seven American Ninja Warrior finals in San Pedro, California.

Auburn University students competed in the Pan-American Games in Toronto.

The United States Supreme Court made history Friday, June 26, by legalizing same-sex marriage in all 50 states.

The annual Syrup Sopping Day in Loachapoka will not happen this year, marking the first time in 42 years the town has not hosted the event.

The PGA Tour hosted the Barbasol Championship at the Grand National Golf Course in Opelika.

Krispy Kreme is coming to the Auburn Mall.

The Magnolia Oak was replaced by another live oak Wednesday, July 8, after failing to save the original.

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Community

EMILY ENFINGER / PHOTO EDITOR

160 Ross residents to be housed in Tiger Lodge

Servpro, disaster recovery team, services 160 Ross on Sunday, Aug. 9.

Maria McIlwain community editor

Residents displaced by the fire at 160 Ross on Monday, Aug. 3, now have the option of moving into Tiger Lodge on Saturday, Aug. 15 until their apartment is repaired.

Kenzie Huggins, junior in social work who was displaced by the fire, said she will move into Tiger Lodge on Saturday, Aug. 15. She said she has safety concerns.

“I’ve heard of shootings in the past,” Huggins said.

There have been two deadly shootings in three years at Tiger Lodge, one in May 2012, and another in December 2014.

Huggins also said she heard the door locks could be opened with a credit card or a fingernail.

She said she has also heard of parties not given by Auburn students there.

She said these concerns have not been addressed.

Those who were displaced were notified by email Wednesday, Aug. 5.

“I was just waiting for a response from 160 Ross,” Huggins said.

Huggins said she was worried when she heard about the fire, and she had hoped for better communication from management.

“They haven’t been as professional as I thought they were going to be through the whole process,” Huggins said.

Residents displaced by the fire were offered four options from American Campus Communities, the firm that owns 160 Ross.

Residents who live at Tiger Lodge will still have access to amenities at 160 Ross. Residents will pay $384 per month while they live at Tiger Lodge.

Residents also have the option of starting their lease when they can move into 160 Ross on Jan. 1, 2016, or terminating their lease. If residents terminate their lease, they will be refunded any money they have paid so far.

Mark Evans, public relations specialist who works with Tiger Lodge, said Tiger Lodge was approached by American Campus Communities.

“We said we could help them out, yes,” Evans said.

Evans said the fire came at a bad time, and Tiger Lodge management wanted to help the students. He said this arrangement fills empty units at Tiger Lodge, and allows the students to experience another property in Auburn.

Evans said he is not aware of anyone expressing safety concerns, and said American Campus Communities will have employees on site on move-in day to answer questions.

“They wouldn’t express [concerns] to us, they would express them to American Campus Communities,” Evans said.

Brandon Goebel, senior in media studies, was not affected by the fire. He will move in Aug. 15. He said he was in disbelief when he heard about the fire.

Goebel said communication from management has not been good. He said he did not know his status for approximately 48 hours. He received an email Aug. 5, stating that his building was not affected.

“It seemed like a much longer time than it should have been,” Goebel said. “I was in the dark for a while.”

Goebel said he is trying to remain positive, however, he is now thinking about contingency plans in case an incident such as the fire happens again.

“Obviously, in the back of my head, I’m thinking, ‘What if an accident like this happens again?’” Goebel said.

The fire started on the roof and moved into attic of Building 4. No one was injured, and the cause of the fire is still under investigation according to the Auburn Fire Division.

Multiple attempts to reach American Campus Communities representatives were not returned by the publication deadline.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

9

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Community

Three things to do if you’re bored in Auburn

Rachel Taylor

Spirited Art

Community Writer

CyberZone • CyberZone, located on North Ninth Street in Opelika, is home to laser tag, arcade games and a laser maze.

• Emily Walker, manager at CyberZone, said the laser tag area can hold up to 36 people and a group must have at least four people to play.

• Walker said the laser tag area is one of the largest in the United States and is 6,000 square feet.

Chewacla • Many Auburn students flock to Chewacla to hike the trials when the weather is nice. However, there is more to Chewacla than just hiking it’s 25 miles of trail.

• According to Amanda White, naturalist at the park, Chewacla is 696 acres, has two waterfalls — one handmade, one natural — three creeks, a man-made lake and fishing.

• Paddleboats and canoes are available to rent for $7 per hour.

• The fee to enter the park is $4 for adults ages 12-61. The price went up in March, according to White.

ellen jackson / photographer

There is a discount for $5 off an evening class in the campus planner.

College students can play at the discounted price of $6 per game.

• Sarah Canivez, who owns and operates the Auburn location of Spirited Art alongside her husband, described Spirited Art as paint and sip studio that is a great place to come with a friend or a date.

• The evening classes cost $35 and include supplies and the instructor.

• There are group discounts for groups over a certain number.

You can register for a private event by email.

FILE photo

A biker makes his way through one of Chewacla’s 25 trails.

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

campus

Construction projects end Maria McIlwain Community editor

Construction has been rampant across campus, from Samford Park to Cater Hall. However, with the conclusion of summer comes the end of these projects.

University architect Jim Carroll said many construction projects are done in the summer because there are less students on campus.

Cater Hall is receiving a facelift as it reaches its 100th birthday. According to Carroll, it has never had a renovation similar to the one it is currently undergoing.

Martha Koontz, communication and marketing specialist with Facilities Management, said workers are repairing foundation, replacing the siding and making mechanical and electrical improvements to the building. “(The renovations) help to protect this historical building on campus,” Koontz said.

Koontz said phase two of the project, which includes renovations to the interior of the building, is scheduled for next summer.

At the edge of campus, phase two of the Samford Park renovations is ending. The new, widened brick sidewalk opened to pedestrians Saturday, Aug. 8.

Burmester said the project did not have any major setbacks.

“All projects have challenges, but this went pretty smoothly,” Burmester said.

Burmester said the improvements to Samford Park are helpful because they help present a more aesthetically appealing “front door” to campus.

“It improves Auburn University’s image to the public,” Burmester said.

Future projects for the area include planting descendants of the Toomer’s Oaks along South College Street. That project is expected to start in December and will cause minimal delays.

Future projects include a building for the School of Nursing and a research facility for the Harrison School of Pharmacy.

Emily Esleck contributed to this report.

dakota sumpter / senior photographer

Cater Hall renovations were approved by the Board of Trustees on Friday, Sept. 5, 2014.

community

Toomer’s Corner on schedule to re-open on Aug. 17 Rachael Taylor community writer

With the start of the first day of classes brings the end of summer construction in downtown Auburn.

The project’s deadline is Monday, Aug. 17. According to Jeff Ramsey, city engineer for the city of Auburn, the project is set to be finished on time.

The construction, which began in May, will bring many changes to Toomer’s Corner, including brick inlay in the crosswalks and a brick inlay tiger paw in the center of the intersection.

“For the most part, the proj-

ect’s going very well,” said Ramsey.

Crews have worked from 6 p.m.- 5 a.m. placing the brick inlay because it is too hot to lay in the heat of the day, but Ramsey said the project has encountered no more complications than any other construction project.

The plan for the construction of the corner was revealed earlier this year, and Ramsey said while some changes were made during construction, they’re not obvious.

The project is mostly complete, but there some major things to be done, such as

laying bricks, installing traffic signal equipment and asphalt pavement.

The construction zone has been fenced off all summer.

The fence had a black covering on it until recently. Ramsey said he has heard of arrests for trespass into the construction zone. He said he is not sure when the fence will be removed.

Ramsey said the construction staff has had monthly meetings with the merchants to give them updates. He said the merchants have been patient, but he said he thinks they will be happy when the construction ends.

David Dorton, public affairs director for the city of Auburn, said the construction is in its final stages, and the construction staff has been working to be done by school starting.

One of the perks of the construction has been free parking in downtown Auburn. According to Kevin Cowper, assistant city manager for the city of Auburn, parking downtown will be free until Aug. 17, and the second and third floors of the Gay Street parking deck will close on Aug. 17, or when the streets open.

Cowper said the feedback has been supportive be-

dakota sumpter / senior photographer

Workers put the finishing touches on Toomer’s Corner.

cause the corner means a lot to many people.

On Aug. 21 from 6-9 p.m., there will be a Come Home to the Corner event downtown. The event will include

live music and merchants will have sidewalk sales.

There will also be a poker run, which is a scavenger hunt through downtown Auburn to visit different places.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

11

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

campus

Tips for staying safe on campus

Maria McIlwain community editor

Auburn may be the Loveliest Village on the Plains, but crime is still a reality.

However, major crime is a rarity, with burglary and theft being the two most common crimes on campus, according to Susan McCallister, associate director of public safety information and education for the University.

She said many of these incidents are crimes of opportunity.

“It could be someone leaving a computer in the Student Center,” McCallister said.

McCallister said the Auburn Police Division is involved in almost all crimes reported on campus. She said it is best to dial 911 as soon as possible to report the crime. She said the non-emergency number, (334) 501-3110, is a good option for someone who is just noticing a crime after several days, such as a theft.

Paul Register, APD police chief, said there is a group of officers on campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week. He said they respond to several calls per day. Officers patrol in cars, on bikes or on foot.

He said many of the calls are to give directions, for lost or stolen property or minor car accidents.

Register said lost or stolen items are often returned to their owner.

“A lot of our thefts we’re able to solve because we do have a lot of officers on campus, but there’s a network of cameras on campus,” Register said. “Many times, we’re able to determine who’s responsible for thefts. So I really feel like we want to tell anybody that if you think about stealing something on campus, it would not be wise because the likelihood of being caught is really high.”

Register said the APD has a community services division that teaches crime prevention and safety. He said

the police are highly visible on campus, and the poles with a blue light provide a direct link to 911.

“If you pick up the phone on one of those blue lights [poles], it automatically calls the 911 center here for the city of Auburn, and we can have an officer there,” Register said.

Register said response time is typically 2-3 minutes.

Register said the root of many crimes is heavy drinking.

“Just about every bad thing that happens, accidents, DUIs, all of those things, many times, we see alcohol at the root of those problems,” Register said.

McCallister said the only crimes APD is not necessarily involved in are domestic violence, dating violence or sexual violence. She said victims, known as survivors, have the right to choose not to report these crimes to the police.

“We encourage everyone to report every time to police, but they do have a choice in those cases,” McCallister said.

Kelley Taylor, director of the Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Office, said her office receives several sexual harassment and assault complaints each year. She said safety when consuming alcohol is a factor in preventing sexual violence.

“Watch how much you drink ... watch your drink, make sure you’re holding onto it,” Taylor said.

Taylor said it is also good to have a buddy when going out or even running at night.

“Intervention by a bystander can be the difference between having a sexual assault and not having a sexual assault,” Taylor said.

In 2014, there were five cases of sexual assault, 14 cases of domestic or dating violence and 13 cases of stalking on campus, on properties adjacent to campus or other university-owned property, according to pre-

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david topper / photographer

An officer patrols near campus.

liminary numbers provided by public safety. The full report for 2014 will be published in September.

McCallister said there are several ways for students to keep themselves and their property safe.

She suggested writing down serial numbers so lost or stolen items can be tracked easier. She said etching personalized number combinations into items help make them more easily identifiable. She also warned against leaving personal belongings in plain sight.

McCallister said traveling in groups, especially at night, and staying with people one knows and trusts will help reduce the chances of being a victim of crime.

“There’s safety in numbers, that’s what I’m saying,” McCalister said.

Register said he encouraged everyone to immediately report suspicious activity and take advantage of night transit systems.

“Let us decide whether something is criminal or civil or suspicious or not,” Register said. “We solve a lot of crimes because some citizen saw something that just didn’t look right.”

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

student spotlight

From the classroom to summer adventures

Students learn valuable lessons through activities both at home and overseas

Evan McCullers sports reporter

While most students spent their summers relaxing, working or volunteering at home, a few Auburn students got the chance to travel to different parts of the country or world and experience new things.

Taylor Wesley, junior in communication, went with a group called Global Lead to study abroad in Cape Town, South Africa.

Wesley said she was drawn to the trip because of its adventurous nature, along with the classes’ focus on leadership and service.

“One course was very self-reflective and taught us how to be leaders on campus and in the working world,” Wesley said. “The other class focused on how to be a mindful traveler and how to reach different groups of people. My major is communications, so learning how to market to different groups was really cool.”

Outside of class, Wesley’s group experienced some of the local tourist attractions.

“I got to see Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was held captive,” Wesley said. “We also go to visit the Cape of Good Hope, which was really beautiful.”

Wesley said she had multiple encounters with the local wildlife, including baboons, penguins, elephants, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs and lions.

She also participated in many activities in the area, including skydiving, surfing, cage diving with sharks, bungee jumping and hiking and repelling on Table Mountain.

Wesley said she was nervous before some of the activities but is glad that she did them.

“I would have never signed up for most of the activities if I was just alone in Africa,” Wesley said. “The program encouraged you to step out of your comfort zone, which is huge as far as leadership.”

The group also got an opportunity to do service activities during their time in South Africa.

“We put on a day camp for the kids at a local school,” Wesley said. “We would play with the kids, and in the afternoon, we were

each assigned a family and we spent a week with them. It was really cool getting to form relationships with the family, getting to know them on a personal level and learning about their lifestyle.”

Wesley said the trip was a “celebration of life” and something she will never forget.

“Gettng to appreciate God’s creation and experience a different culture like I never had before was a huge blessing,” Wesley said.

Just a few miles north of Cape Town, Erica Hadaway, sophomore in social work, spent a month in Swaziland on a mission trip with an organization called Children’s Cup, a nonprofit organization that provides humanitarian aid and spiritual guidance.

Hadaway spent five days a week at Children’s Cup’s care points, stations placed all around rural African areas that provide food, water, medical attention and educational materials to locals.

Hadaway said the majority of the people at the care points were young children, but the ages varied.

“My heart is definitely with young children, and we got to spend a lot of time with them at the care points,” Hadaway said, “but we also got to spend time with young adults and mentor them. It was a good mix of (ages).”

Hadaway said a trip to a local hospital was the experience that stood out to her.

“Swaziland is actually the number one place for HIV and AIDS in the world,” Hadaway said. “Getting to see the hospital atmosphere, it’s pretty bad. The beds are all lined up next to each other, the walls are basically falling apart, the kids have to hold their IV bags, it’s just a scary sight to see. They just look like they have no hope, so getting to go in there and try to give them hope was a huge blessing. It wrecked my world.”

Hadaway said she brought back many memories and lessons learned from the trip, but a few stood out above the rest.

Hadaway said she learned the importance of love by dealing with the children.

“We, as Christians, are called to love unconditionally, wherever we’re at,” Hadaway

contributed by erica hadaway

Hadaway poses with children she met in Swaziland.

said. “Whether you’re called to full-time missions or life in America, it’s important to love others. There are so many easy and practical ways to show love.”

Approximately 8,000 miles northwest of southern Africa, David Earnhardt, a senior in industrial and systems engineering, spent his summer interning at the White House in the office of intergovernmental affairs.

“We were charged with engaging local and state elected officals across the country,” Earnhardt said. “We did a lot of work with

mayors and governors and county officials, kind of running the president’s ground game.

Things that the administration couldn’t get off the ground on the Hill, we tried to get done at the local and state levels.”

Earnhardt said it was “a real privilege” to work at the White House.

“I don’t think there’s anything that quite prepares you for walking through the gates every day,” he said. “You feel at times like you’re at the center of everything. There’s always something going on.”

Thursday, August 13, 2015 Gurden Smith / Illustrator

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

community

Memorial held for Jule Collins Museum of Fine Art’s namesake Jordan Hays

Managing Editor

A memorial for the Jule Collins Museum of Fine Art’s namesake was held at the museum on Sunday, Aug. 9, at 2:30 p.m.

Jule Collins Smith passed away June 13 in Houston resulting from complications from pneumonia.

Jule was born in Opelika and raised in Montgomery. She graduated from Hayneville High School when she was 16 years old and went on to attend Alabama Polytechnic Institute in 1946, which later became Auburn University. During her time at Auburn, she pledged to Kappa Delta and met her husband, Albert James Smith, Jr. The Sunday memorial opened with duet performances of “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring� by Johann Sebastian Bach and “God Bless America� by Irving Berlin.

Auburn University President Jay Gogue was the first to speak at the memorial. “The story that I think most of us all relate to is the 50th wedding anniversary,� Gogue said. “Albert could have gotten [Jule] some new shoes or could have gotten a ring, I don’t know, could have gotten her something really nice, but he got her a museum.�

Visit Our Office 303 Martin Hall

The University president said the museum has had a powerful impact on the community since it opened its door to the public in 2003.

He said it was Jule’s passion for the arts that made her want to educate people about it. “Back in June, I went to the barbershop and got my hair cut, and all the barber could talk about was the daughter had spent the night at the museum ... and even the barber was excited,�

Gogue said.

Jule’s granddaughter, Katherine Smith, also spoke at the memorial. She recalled stories of her parents teller her how they met at Auburn and said she wanted to become a Kappa Delta like her grandmother, who she called Dewey. “I think it’s safe to say that Dewey was a compassionate, generous, stubborn and an abundantly kind woman,� Katherine said. “Whether she was telling me why it wasn’t ladylike to chew gum or asking if I sang the entire happy birthday tune as I washed my hands ... She was always pushing me to be the best version of myself.�

Katherine’s speech was followed by a video presentation featuring Jule speaking at the site of the soon to be museum.

The final speaker was Marilyn Laufer, director of Jule Collins

Datota Sumpter / Senior Photographer

Albert Smith Jr., left, husband of the late Jule Collins Smith, shakes hands with Dennis Drake, Counselor Emeritus, at the memorial service.

Museum of Fine Art. Laufer said she admired Jule’s charm and generous heart, but said it was her smarts that she admired most. “I’ve realized that her name, her spirit, her dream is part of the very fiber of this institution,� Laufer said. “When we open the doors each day, we welcome Auburn University students for a class assignment or a group of preschools or a visitor to campus, we do it in her honor.�

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Thursday, August 13, 2015

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

The Auburn Plainsman AND

STAY UPDATED ON EVERYTHING AUBURN! Read us in print and online Follow us on Twitter @TheAUPlainsman Like our Facebook page at Facebook.com/ThePlainsman Want to join our staff?

Contact us by email: editor@theplainsman.com or visit us in the Student Center Suite 1111.

No experience necessary. All majors welcome!

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

housing

Tips for organizing small spaces Emily Shoffit sports reporter

Within the past month, how many of you eagerly arrived at your dorm move-in ready only to step into the rays of fluorescent lighting and a room scarred with an unfamiliar smell courtesy of previous tenants?

Between the smell and creativity-draining, off-white paint color, your new home for the year is ... something.

“This is it, Mom and Dad!” Deep down inside you were expecting a little more, but you still have to work with what you’ve got. The challenge you’re faced with is making this relatively small space yours.

Organization is something to strive for, but how do you do that without breaking the bank?

“Ziploc bags for everything,” said Skye Esry, senior in political science. “Literally, everything. Don’t be afraid to go up and down.”

What she means is shelves and under-the-bed organizers. Target has shelving that starts at $12 and can fit under and around most beds. Wal-Mart has three-shelf bookcases for $18, and local thrift stores have unique furniture at a relatively low price.

“I also organize things by keeping them in or near the area they are most useful,” Esry said.

Your dorm most likely requires you to either share your room

itself, the bathroom or both.

Keeping your personal belongings in a public space can be easily managed by keeping your own shower caddy or having a small plastic rolling organizer by the bathroom door to store your personal care items.

“Color coordinate your clothes, and if there’s room for a shoes rack, buy it immediately,” said Erika Enrico, senior in aviation management.

Keeping the floor clear in a complex room-sharing situation will ensure the safety of you and your roommate in case of an emergency or need of a late night snack with minimal light.

“Storage bins are helpful for keeping things under your bed,” Enrico said. “Just make sure you label them.”

Remember that the initial lack of character your dorm room greets you with isn’t permanent.

Websites such as Pinterest provide great do-it-yourself projects that keep your room clean, put together and allow you to display your things neatly.

Asking your neighbors how they customized their room is a great icebreaker that can fuel your creativity.

Your room may not have been what you were expecting initially, but your ideas are what give it that extra oomph. Try to utilize your ideas while keeping your space clear for yourself and your guests.

Rachel sprouse / intrigue writer

Keeping a small space organized and decorated can be easy.

her view

Organizational tips and tricks for living off campus Emily Shoffit sports@theplainsman. com

It’s a new year and you probably have a new space off campus. A year in the dorm was enough and it’s time to move on to bigger, more exciting things. No, I’m not referring to the fight for a PC parking pass or another semester of 8 a.m. classes. I’m talking about apartment living.

Look at all the room for activities you could never do in the dorm, and you have no idea what to do with it.

Most apartment complexes let you color your space. As exciting as that may be, there’s minimal chance you paint them because no

way are you painting them white again when you move out in a few years or months.

Either way, you have a ton of white space.

Luckily, there’s a poster sale at the beginning of each semester on the second floor of the Student Center. If you’re not into that, hopefully your parents have some sort of taste in wall art and are happy to donate to their college student. If not, local art shows are a fairly common event through out the year. Keep checking The Plainsman; we’ll keep you updated.

Next on the list: furniture. Your complex may provide furniture. If they don’t, chairs from home, bookcases from thrift shops and lamps from the dollar store are easy pickups.

It’s not hard to find something special to you in Auburn, and it won’t kill you to explore the area more. You’re going to be here for a while, after all.

Brainstorm with your new roommates, if they’re social, on customizing your living room and kitchen. It’s a great way to spend time with them and there’s a chance they have great ideas or solid Pinterest boards. Guys, if you don’t Pinterest, the girl next door most likely does, and you most likely were going to make friends with her anyway.

For the rest of your apartment and college tips, here’s helpful ones contributed by friends who I met via some of the tips above. Yes, they really do work.

For closets: Turn all of your hangers facing you and turn them around once you’ve worn the item. In three months anything still facing the other way gets donated.

Have a dedicated time each week for laundry, cleaning and making to do lists or schedules of the coming week. Sunday afternoons

are my go to. Sometimes just taking a step back and looking at the big picture is all you need.

Color-code your notebooks with the color pen that you write in your planner with. Have multiple tests coming up? Highlight the top of notecards with the same color so I can just grab and go with the right cards.

There’s plenty of ways to decorate your space. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and don’t be afraid to customize your space your way.

Also: don’t be afraid to invest in your apartment. You won’t throw away everything when you graduate and most of the things your buy for your apartment now will continue on with you after your time on the Plains.

Emily Shoffit is a sports reporter for The Plainsman. She can be reached at sports@ ThePlainsman.com

Thursday, August 13, 2015

17

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

his view

The College Student’s Guide to the University: Part 2 Jordan Hays managing. editor@ theplainsman. com

“Don’t panic.” – Douglas Adams, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.

Have you ever been chased by monstrous flying machines? Then the Florgemox 10 is the multitool for you!

Not only will it tie your shoelaces, perform basic fourth grade calculus and reattach the synchrochrons in your mektabulator, it’ll hurl molten carbon at those pesky machines!

It’s also important to note that the Florgemox 10, available only at Wal-Marts as far out as the Horseh-

ead Nebula, has received rave reviews from the only magazine for sentient-robot hunting, The Android Tracker.

And it was a gift in one of Oprah’s giveaways.

But what’s most important of all is that the great person who invented this powerful device read The College Student’s Guide to the University and was very successful as a result.

Most of the guide is irrelevant within the context of Earth.

The following is an abridged version of the column.

Hazing Perhaps an excuse for humans to see other humans of the same gender naked.

Generally in low lighting with candles, curtains and club music, hazing usually involves an endurance test of pledge’s homophobia and what they’re willing to do to be accepted by people they hope to call their brothers.

Luckily, most colleges have banned the practice.

Engineering students Perhaps one of the most sought after mates, engineering students are capable of providing for an entire family while also being socially inept enough to be fooled into marriage, where their heads will be eaten after mating.

Football How humans are able to perform

an activity without the use of half of their limbs is of great interest to bipedal lifeforms across the galaxy.

The sport has garnered the attention of species that have access to interstellar cable, which is made possible through use of wormholes.

Human Professors The most likely to be spared and used as pets when the Kzinti invade Earth since their pelts make for bad upholstery.

Mektabulator Invented in 2164, the mektabulator is a cranial receiver that allows users to connect to global or interstellar communication systems that exchange information. While it’s not illegal to own or even purchase me-

ktabulators, its use was outlawed in 2165 by the Imperial Galactic Government for leading to psychosis.

Sleep Universities across the galaxy have stuggle with how much sleep they should allow their students given that many lifeforms have evolved beyond a need for rest.

Lifeforms that need sleep have been called procrastinating sloths.

Unfortunately, the Sloth Labor Party has made no progress in eliminating the stereotype associated with their species.

Jordan Hays is the managing editor of The Auburn Plainsman. He can be reached at managing.editor@theplainsman.com.

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community

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

The long road ahead

NAACP’s America’s Journey for Justice marches through Auburn to Washington, D.C. on 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act Jordan Hays

Managing Editor

The Voting Rights Act was signed into law on Aug. 6, 1965. Fifty years later to the day, NAACP protesters are marching through Auburn, continuing to speak out against the issues the African-American community still faces.

The NAACP’s America’s Journey for Justice march arrived in Auburn at 10:30 a.m. on their 40-day journey to Washington, D.C. The march is a peaceful protest advocating for economic and educational equity, voter rights, reform to the criminal justice system and an end to racial profiling and police brutality.

The group has marched more than 100 miles from their starting point in Selma, where Martin Luther King Jr. focused his voter registration campaign during the Civil Rights Movement and the site of Bloody Sunday.

“We’re out here marching because our lives, our votes, our schools really matter to us,” said Sean Dugar, NAACP western regional field director. “We’re here to ensure that our presence is felt in each city, in each state, especially here in the South, where these issues are so pertinent.”

The Oakland, California, native has been monitoring cases of police brutality over the past five months.

According to his own research, 31 African-Americans were killed by police officers in the month of July.

“That’s on par with what we con-

Dakota Sumpter / Senior Photographer

The group of marchers from the NAACP’s America’s Journey for Justice arrives in Auburn on South College Street on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2015.

tinue to see month to month,” Dugar said. “So, to me, now is the perfect time to ensure that the NAACP is leading the movement, leading the charge to get Congress to pass the End Racial Profiling Act and other legislation to ensure that officers are held accountable.”

A federal court of appeals found Texas’ voter ID law violated the Voting Rights Act by having discriminatory impact. Dugar called this a “small victory.”

“We want to make sure this is universal,” Dugar said. “We want to see these victories in every state that

have voter ID’s or that are stopping young people and people of color from getting to the polls.”

The Texas law required voters to bring a government-issued voter ID to the polls such as a driver’s license, United States passport, concealed-carry handgun license or an election identification certificate.

“You can use your open-carry license to register and vote, but you cannot use a student ID from a state school, which makes no sense to me,” Dugar said. “Anyone who’s ever been to a DMV knows it’s an all-day process ... a lot of young

people, a lot of elderly people, a lot of people of color, minimum wage workers cannot afford to take off a whole day to go get a driver’s license or ID so that they can then go and vote.”

While the march started with approximately 200 people in Selma, there are only 100 people who have come as far as Auburn, according to Dugar.

Many of the marchers will not actually march the full 860 miles it takes to get from Selma to Washington, D.C. Because of temperatures rising

above 100 degrees, fresh marchers take the place of tired ones and continue where they left off, allowing them time to recover.

Phillip Dage of Detroit is a part of the sprint team for the march. The group is scheduled to be in Washington, D.C. by 7 p.m. on Sept. 11.

When the march falls behind schedule, the sprint team makes up for lost time.

“When I heard about the NAACP starting in Selma and going to D.C., I got really excited, because it’s a much bigger walk and it’s something that’s going to encompass more miles, more people, more issues,” Dage said.

Quincy Bates, southwestern regional organizer, said he has been preparing for the march for months by walking at home and drinking water. He has walked 80 of the 100 miles from Selma to Auburn, and he said he plans to stay with the march all the way to Washington, D.C. “This gives me an opportunity to participate and march for my values, march for what I believe in, march for what’s most important to me, which is voting rights, better quality schools, quality healthcare and just a better quality of life for everyone,” Bates said.

Marchers will have approximately 750 miles to go from Auburn until they reach Washington, D.C., where the NAACP will hold a rally and advocacy day.

Visit naacp.org for more information. Use #JusticeSummer to see updates on the march via Twitter.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

FILE

Austin Phillips was adivser for The Auburn Plainsman for 11 semesters.This page is dedicated to him.

Goodbye, Austin The Plainsman Staff

Over the past three years, a great teacher and journalist has advised The Auburn Plainsman.

The staff wanted to publicly acknowledge Austin Phillips’ service to The Plainsman .

An editorial adviser’s job at a college newspaper can be a tricky one.

The balance between advising and trying to control can be tough, especially for an experienced journalist.

Austin always made it clear that decision of what to cover or publish was always the students’ decision.

He was there to challenge us, argue with us and help us grow to make better decisions.

This article is testament to his dedication and his willingness to trust students to make the best decisions.

Although he’ll probably object to our publishing this article, not because we took low resolution photos from Facebook, but because he

didn’t do the job to seek any credit for himself. He was there for the students late into the night and early in the morning, even though he was only part-time.

Although his tenure as adviser was a short time in the 122-year history of the paper, it was at a time during one of the tumultuous times in the media industry.

Austin helped The Plainsman transition from a weekly mindset, to a daily, online-first orientation, while still producing a high-quality print product.

A college newspaper is simultaneously a learning laboratory and a professional news organization.

Students who come and volunteer at the paper grow as journalists and make mistakes.

Mistakes are learned from and corrected, but a high turnover rate means that one of the biggest sources of institutional memory is the ad-

viser.

An adviser has to be patient and willing to teach the same lessons multiple times.

Austin made the students feel a part of the history of The Plainsman, and when mistakes were made, taught the lesson in the best way possible.

This page is dedicated as a mark of approval to Austin’s work at The Plainsman.

We at The Plainsman say to Austin, job well done.

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

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Thursday, August 13, 2015

21

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

PAGE 23

PAGE 24

PAGE 31

PAGE 37

What you missed in Auburn sports

Looking for leadership

Jeremy Johnson profile

Plainsman Picks

22

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

From the Editor’s Desk

Despite 2014 struggles, expectations are even higher for Tigers in 2015 scape. Suddenly, one of the brightest offensive minds in college football in Gus Malzahn would be paired with a defense whose mastermind was notorious for leading tenacious, relentless, hard-hitting squads year in and year out.

And now that Nick Marshall has departed for the NFL, junior Jeremy Johnson finally is able to step into the spotlight and demonstrate why he was so lauded coming out of high school.

Armed with a cannon for a shoulder, laser-like accuracy and two years of learning the intricacies of Malzahn’s system under his belt, Johnson has the potential to launch himself into the upper echelon of Auburn quarterbacks.

He’ll be throwing to Duke Williams, the preseason All-American wide receiver, who ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. named his No. 1 overall receiver prospect in the 2016 NFL Draft.

The defense, on the other hand, will most definitely experience a rebirth. Starting line-

Sam Butler sports@theplainsman. com

This time last year, expectations were skyhigh for the Auburn Tigers. Their magical run to the BCS National Championship Game, punctuated by the “Miracle at Jordan-Hare” and the “Kick Six”, marked Auburn’s return to the pinnacle of the college football universe.

And then 2014 happened.

After a blazing start to the season, the Tigers couldn’t get out of their own way, and fell in four of their final five games to finish at 8-5 on the season.

Yet, somehow, the excitement around the program has gotten even higher.

It began with Will Muschamp, whose hiring sent shockwaves throughout the national land-

LARGE PIZZA

Sam Butler is the Sports Editor at The Plainsman. He can be reached at sports@the-

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Even in the few short weeks that the team has been practicing, there is already a noticable difference in nearly every aspect of the players: their demeanor has completely lightened; they speak of practice being much more ferocious; they seem more relieved in a way, and the mood around the team has, quite simply, been much better than at the end of last season.

The defense feels like they are finally ready to embrace being a source of intimidation for opponents, not just a doormat.

Add in the nation’s largest collegiate video board and a revamped Jordan-Hare Stadium sound system, and you’ve got one of the most anticipated Auburn seasons in recent history.

Regardless of how the team fares, this year promises to have its share of thrills.

Get ready for a heavy dose of heart palpitations.

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backers Cassanova McKinzy and Kris Frost, both of whom likely would have gotten selected in the NFL Draft, elected to return to anchor Muschamp’s defense. Carl Lawson, the massive defensive end who set the world on fire his freshman year, returns after missing one year because of an ACL injury.

And the secondary, although thin, returns their most consistent cornerback in Jonathan Jones, along with former Georgia safety Tray Matthews.

To top it all off, Malzahn reeled in yet another phenomenal recruiting class.

The highest-rated defensive end in the nation, Byron Cowart, has already solidified himself as a perennial force in the backfield, if post-practice comments by impressed teammates and coaches are to be trusted. Five-star running back Kerryon Johnson joins an already talented stable of running backs to add yet another wrinkle to one of the nation’s most feared offenses.

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Thursday, August 13, 2015

23

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

What You Missed In Auburn Sports Softball

Adam Sparks / Senior Photographer

Coach Clint Myers watches as his Tigers defeat Louisiana-Lafayette.

Following a 2013 season that saw the Auburn softball team reach previously unprecendented heights, the 2014 squad climbed to the highest point in school history. Led by All-Americans Emily Carosone, Tiffany Howard and Kasey Cooper, the Tigers rattled off a school-record 56-11 record, culminating in a fourth-place finish in the Women’s College World Series and an SEC Championship.

Coach Clint Myers, in only his second season at the helm, has already established himself as the best coach in Auburn history, and earned himself a raise that will pay him $203,000 per year until 2020.

Along the way during their magical run, the Tigers set school records in eight offensive categories, all of which led the SEC: Batting Average (.339), total runs (526), hits

Golf July was a busy month for current and former Auburn golfers.

On July 16, the state of Alabama held its first PGA Tour Event, the Barbasol Championship, right here in Auburn.

Former Tigers Blayne Barber (class of 2012) and Patton Kizzire (class of 2008) joined rising sopho-

(606), home runs (99), RBI (474), walks (356), on-base percentage (.460), and slugging percentage (.572).

Following their dramatic come-from-behind win in the SEC Championship Game to beat Tennessee, the Tigers were awarded the fourth overall seed in the NCAA Tournament and earned the right to host a Super Regional.

Auburn dispatched Louisiana-Lafayette in two games to move on to the Women’s College World Series, where they were one of five teams from the SEC to reach the final eight.

After falling into the loser’s bracket by dropping the first game, the Tigers came roaring back, winning three in a row before being eliminated in their next game by the Florida Gators, who claimed their second consecutive championship by defeating Michigan in three games.

Recruiting

more, and current member of the Auburn’s men’s golf team, Ben Schlottman as the only participants who were native to the area.

Schlottman was named a member of the All-SEC team as a freshman, as well as a member of the Freshman All-SEC in 2013, along with being named Freshman of the Year in the

SEC. Barber, who was named an All-American in 2012 while still enrolled at Auburn, finished in a tie for 10th place at the championship, finishing with a score of 10-under-par.

Las Vegas, Nevada, native Scott Piercy won the Barbasol Championship, finishing with a score of 19-under-par for the tournament.

Over the summer, Auburn picked up a few notable additions to its 2016 recruiting class. How do they stack up?

QB Woody Barrett (Winter Garden, FL) «««« The 6-foot-2, 221-pound quarterback out of West Orange High School chose Auburn over Alabama and Oregon.

He is working to graduate early so he can enroll in Auburn ahead of schedule.

DB John Broussard (Phenix City)

«««« Hailing from nearby Central High School in Phenix City, the No. 8 cornerback in the nation selected the Tigers over LSU and Mississippi State.

DB Jamarcus King

Dakota Sumpter / Senior Photographer

Blayne Barber was one of three current or former Auburn students to participate in the Barbasol Championship.

(Coffeyville, KS) «««« Will Muschamp helped recruit the No. 4 junior college cornerback in the country, who picked Auburn over Muschamp’s former team, the Florida Gators.

FB Malik Miller (Madison) «««« The backfield partner of current freshman and fellow five-star Kerryon Johnson, the 5-foot-11, 247-pound Miller helped Madison Academy claim three straight 3A titles. He chose Auburn over Alabama and Florida State.

OL Brodarious Hamm (Griffin, GA) ««« Standing at an imposing 6-foot5 and 347 pounds, the lineman out of Spalding High School earlier decommitted from Tennessee before choosing Auburn.

WR Marquis McClain (Crestview, FL) ««« Auburn’s most recent commitment, the Crestview native decided to commit to Auburn while visiting.

He chose the Tigers over Nebraska and Minnesota, among others.

24

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Football

Trio of Tigers embrace leadership Emily Shoffit Sports reporter

The 2015 Auburn Tigers are heading into the fall high up in the college football rankings.

As they look to improve upon 2014, who is going to lead the Tigers to the playoffs this season?

The Nick Marshall era on the Plains has officially come to a close, and it's time to welcome his (bigger) shadow to the quarterback position.

The 6-foot-5 Jeremy Johnson will finally have his time to shine after two full years at Auburn.

“My time is here now and I'm blessed,”Johnson said. “I can release everything I had inside me while I was sitting out those two years.”

Coach Gus Malzahn said he is confident enough in the true junior to build his offense around his size and passing ability.

“We are going to build the offense around the quarterback’s strengths,” Malzhan said. “Jeremy has the ability. He can flat out throw it. He can

make every throw that you ask him to do, but he’s a better runner than people think. He will allow us to call all of our offense.”

Johnson should give the Tigers' offense the boost it needs to exceed the 35.5 points per game they averaged in 2014.

Senior linebacker Kris Frost is looking to lead the Auburn defense this year.

Hoping to improve on his 87 tackles from the 2014 season, Frost is ready to get back on the field.

“We are all excited,” Frost said.

“We feel like we have a new breath of life in us. Everything is so positive.”

With an eye on improving the defense under first-year defensive coordinator Will Muschamp, Frost is setting goals to achieve for himself and his teammates.

“Us as a defense, we know what we have to accomplish,” Frost said.

“We know how much we have to step up to the plate and make a difference … We know that we have an

opportunity to be a premier defense, and we are ready to do that.”

Frost was a defensive leader for the Tigers in 2014, playing 13 games and registering 59 solo tackles and 28 assists.

The 2014 recipient of the Zeke Smith Award for Defensive Player of the Year, senior cornerback Jonathan Jones will be a key player in the defensive backfield this season. Jones led the Auburn defense with six interceptions last season, which ranked him ninth nationally “Effort, that’s the biggest thing,” Jones said.

The Tigers finished with the thirdworst pass defense in the league last season.

“Just be patient,” Jones said. “A lot of guys will panic when a deep ball is in the air, and the guys that don’t panic are the ones who make the plays.”

If Jones’ patience has improved from last season, Tiger fans will be in store for a special season from Auburn’s senior corner.

Dakota Sumpter / Senior Photographer

TOP: Jonathan Jones speaks to the media at SEC Media Days in Hoover.

BOTTOM LEFT: Jeremy Johnson poses for pictures at SEC Media Days.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Kris Frost answers questions at SEC Media Days.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Football

Tigers already feeling effects of new board Emily Shoffit Sports reporter

Dakota Sumpter / Senior Photographer

Auburn held its first scrimmage of the season Monday, Aug. 11, beneath Jordan-Hare Stadium's newest addition. The nation's largest video board got its first test run during the Tigers preseason 90-play scrimmage. Though the board only displayed a standstill "Auburn" graphic throughout practice, the team will play several more times with game simulation videos to familiarize the players with the huge new screen.

"I want our players to get used to it. It's a factor, a big factor," coach Gus Malzahn said while addressing the media following the scrimmage. "We’ll probably go in there a good four times before our first game for our punters and our returners just to get used to it."

Malzahn relayed his excitement of having the new board during SEC Media Days in Hoover this year, saying it was "something else" for Auburn.

"It will do nothing but help our atmosphere, which is already off the charts," Malzahn said. "I know our players are going to enjoy it ... it will take me a little getting used to, but I'm really looking forward to having it."

“

It will do nothing but help our atmosphere, which is already off the charts. I know our players are going to enjoy it.”

—Gus Malzahn Coach

Fans will have to wait until Sept. 12 to accommodate themselves with Auburn's colossal new toy when the Tigers host the Jacksonville State Gamecocks at Jordan-Hare. Attendees will have a lot to process between the attention-grabbing video board and the team's new defense under Will Muschamp.

What factor, according to Malzahn, does the board specifically bring?

"It's big, it's bright and you really can't miss it," Malzahn said. "It really grabs your attention."

At Media Days, coach Gus Malzahn relayed the impact of the new scoreboard.

Scoreboard banners removed less than 1 week after being installed Evan McCullers Sports Reporter

The banners on the back of Auburn’s new scoreboard did not last long.

The banners, which were mosaics of athletes, alumni and faculty, were added Tuesday, Aug. 4, and Wednesday, Aug. 5. Then, Friday, Aug. 7, the banners were taken down.

One banner contained a picture of Nova, Auburn’s golden eagle that circles Jordan-Hare Stadium before home football games, while the other was a picture of Toomer’s Corner, including the famous oak trees rolled in toilet paper.

"The banners were removed because the sizing and coloring weren't done correctly," Kirk Sampson, Auburn's director of sports information, told The Plainsman.

A report from AL.com suggests some officials inside the athletics department were not pleased with how the banners turned out.

AL.com reports a plan is in place to have the banners replaced at some point this season, but it is unlikely that the banners are in place in time for the first home game.

Mulitple attempts by The Plainsman to reach out to Auburn Athletics for more information regarding the removal of the banners were unsuccessful.

Auburn’s home opener is Saturday, Sept. 12, at 11 a.m. versus Jacksonville State.

Evan McCullers / Sports Reporter

Just days after being installed, the canvas banners on the back of the new scoreboard were removed.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

27

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back RUNNING BACKS

Crowded backfield race yet to yield a winner Lauren Christopher ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

PHOTO FROM FILE

Jovon Robinson is one of three candidates for the starting running back job.

With the quarterback position set in Jeremy Johnson, the Tigers’ running game is left dependent on the top running back candidates to do the job.

However, Gus Malzahn has yet to solidify a starter out of three players up for the position.

By the end of the 2014 season, the Tigers’ offense totaled 3,321 rushing yards, so with the loss of SEC rushing leader Cameron Artis-Payne to the Carolina Panthers, the running back lineup will have some large shoes to fill this season.

Sophomore Roc Thomas tops the list, making his season debut at the A-Day game in April, where he carried for 62 yards and caught the first touchdown pass from Johnson.

Last season, Thomas appeared in 12

games, starting in two, and he rushed for 42 yards on six carries against Mississippi State in one of his best games.

Following Thomas is junior college transfer Jovon Robinson. The 6-foot, 230-pound junior only carried for 19 total yards at A-Day, but he proved more successful in his previous college career at Georgia Military College. In his former collegiate career, Robinson rushed for 2,387 yards and 34 touchdowns, setting the single-season junior college record in rushing yards.

Redshirt sophomore Peyton Barber is also up for a running back spot.

Barber also didn’t stand out much at A-Day, but played in six games in 2014, including a season-high 24yard carry against Louisiana Tech.

Against SEC opponents, Barber carried to push for the win over LSU

and carried three times for 19 yards against Arkansas.

Although Thomas, Robinson and Barber are at the top of the list, the newest member of the roster, freshman Kerryon Johnson has a chance to stand out.

He will need more on-field experience to push him to a starting position, but in his senior year of high school alone, Johnson rushed for 1,659 yards for 25 touchdowns, and racked up 109 total in his career at Madison Academy.

Another contribution to the offensive strength this season is the return of the coaching staff in full. It took approximately four weeks for Tim Horton and Rhett Lashlee to name Tre Mason as the starter back in the 2013 season, making it an easier time crunch to expect a top name for the position.

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

FOOTBALL

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Tigers hit the practice field to train for season opener in Atlanta Ahead of Auburn’s season opener against Louisville in the Georgia Dome, coach Gus Malzahn and his Tigers have been getting ready on the practice field. Led by a veteran defense, and with a newly crowned starting quarterback in Jeremy Johnson, Auburn is primed for a comeback after a disappointing end to 2014.

With an impressive crop of incoming freshmen, headlined by No. 1 defensive end Byron Cowart and five-star athlete Kerryon Johnson, the talent pool on the Plains is not going to dry up any time soon.

Two players who sat out last year add even more firepower to the Tigers roster.

Defensive end Carl Lawson and guard Alex Kozan, who were both named to the Freshman All-American team in 2013, missed the 2014 season with an ACL injury and back surgery, respectively.

Duke Williams anchors a hardnosed receiving corps that also features seniors Ricardo Louis, of Miracle in Jordan-Hare fame, and Melvin Ray, who snagged a touchdown in the 2014 BCS National Championship Game against Florida State.

PHOTOS BY DAKOTA SUMPTER AND DAVID TOPPER / SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHERS

Thursday, August 13, 2015

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Information compiled by Emily Shoffit

FOOTBALL

Consistency is key to success of O-line Lauren Christopher ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

Starting in the fall, the Tigers’ offensive line will have to fill three large spaces from the loss of their star fouryear center Reese Dismukes, guard Chad Slade and right tackle Pat Miller.

However, under the direction of J.B. Grimes, the Tigers have enough room to pick starters.

Xavier Dampeer and Austin Golson make up the top contenders to replace Dismukes, who earned the Rimington Trophy at the conclusion of his senior season.

Dampeer holds an advantage in the lead for the job. At 6-foot-2, 305 pounds, he has seen action with the Tigers in five games behind Dismukes, and was ranked the No. 1 junior college center by 247sports back when he was recruited in 2013.

Although Dampeer is the favored senior, Golson has a good shot to earn the starting spot.

Coming from a strong SEC football program, he played in 12 games for the Ole Miss Rebels as a true freshman — although mostly at guard — before transferring to Auburn in 2014.

The left tackle spot belongs to Shon Coleman, who

enters his third season following a battle with leukemia starting in 2011. The junior saw plenty of action in 2014, starting a full season of games at left tackle.

At right tackle, Avery Young returns to the offensive line after starting a full season of games, rotating from left to right tackle before staying at right.

Young is currently named to two preseason award watch lists: the Outland Trophy and the Rotary Lombardi Award.

This season also marks the return of Alex Kozan, who suffered a serious back injury that prevented him from seeing playing time last season.

The 2013 All-American was cleared for fall camp, but even with his absence, the guard joins Young on the Outland Trophy watch list.

Sophomore Braden Smith tops off the offensive line at right guard after appearing in 13 games last season.

Smith made his first and only start during the Outback Bowl loss against Wisconsin.

Dismukes' play will be a tough act to follow, but whether Golson or Dampeer snags the starting position, their size and ability will help quarterback Jeremy Johnson buy himself more time to move the ball.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Thursday, August 13, 2015

31

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

FOOTBALL

Jeremy Johnson ready to take the reins Lauren Christopher ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

The Auburn Tigers have a load of pressure on their backs for the 2015 season with the loss of star seniors and addition of talented new players to the field.

However, the team has already made a good impression across the nation with multiple players placed on preseason watch lists, and the team was predicted by the media at this summer's SEC Media Days to win the SEC Championship.

After sitting on the sidelines for two seasons watching Nick Marshall, Jeremy Johnson is ready to lead the Tigers.

Johnson stands at 6-foot-5, 240 pounds with phenomenal rushing and throwing capability, which he showcased in seven game appearances off the bench and one start in last year’s season opener against Arkansas.

During his start, Johnson completed his first eight passes, becoming the first Auburn quarterback to throw for more than 200 yards in one half since Cam Newton in 2010.

He will be entering his third year on the team and has the experience from starting as a true freshman back in 2013 against Western

Carolina and appearing in six games throughout the season.

Coach Gus Malzahn said the team is looking to keep a similar offensive structure from 2013 as opposed to 2014.

In Malzahn’s own terms, the plan is to “build the offense around the quarterback’s strengths.”

Malzahn commended Johnson for being one of the better zone read quarterbacks he’s seen, and placed an emphasis on play action passing rather than running the ball.

However, Malzahn also said Johnson has a slick running ability.

From this clue, the offense will be a mixture of running and passing, focusing on how Johnson’s abilities can bring the offense closer to the end zone.

When it comes to passing, Johnson has a team of top wide receivers to catch what comes their way.

Already predicted to win the SEC, Auburn can get there by securing a top running back to carry for Johnson and using his throwing ability to reach the hands of Duke Williams, who has proven he is one of the top receivers in the country.

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

2015 Auburn football numerical roster 1 Montravius Adams DT 6-4 296 JR Vienna, Ga. (Dooly County) 1 D’haquille Williams WR 6-2 224 SR LaPlace, La. (Mississippi Gulf CoastCC) 3 Jonathan Jones DB 5-10 181 SR Carrollton, Ga. (Carrollton) 4 Jeff Holland OLB 6-2 240 FR Jacksonville, Fla. (Trinity Christian) 4 Jason Smith WR 6-1 180 SO Mobile (Mississippi Gulf Coast CC) 5 Ricardo Louis WR 6-2 215 SR Miami (Miami Beach Senior) 6 Jeremy Johnson QB 6-5 240 JR Montgomery (Carver) 6 DaVonte Lambert DL 6-2 282 SR Keysville, Ga (Georgia Military College) 8 Cassanova McKinzy LB 6-3 253 SR Birmingham (Woodlawn) 8 Tony Stevens WR 6-4 205 JR Orlando, Fla. (Evans) 9 Byron Cowart DE 6-3 277 FR Seffner, Fla. (Armwood) 9 Roc Thomas RB 5-10 203 SO Oxford (Oxford) 10 Stanton Truitt WR 5-9 184 RS FR Atlanta (Monroe Area) 11 Markell Boston DB 6-0 200 RS FR Newnan, Ga. (East Coweta) 12 Jonathan Wallace WR 6-2 214 SR Phenix City (Central) 13 T.J. Davis DB 6-0 200 JR Tallahassee, Fla. (Godby) 13 Sean White QB 6-0 200 RS FR Boca Raton, Fla. (University Nova South) 14 Stephen Roberts DB 5-11 187 SO Opelika (Opelika) 15 Joshua Holsey DB 5-11 198 SR Fairburn, Ga. (Creekside) 15 Tyler Queen QB 6-1 241 FR Kennesaw, Ga. (North Cobb) 16 JaViere Mitchell LB 6-2 215 JR Leeds (Leeds) 16 Tucker Tuberville QB 6-0 192 SR Auburn (Texas Tech) 17 Kris Frost LB 6-2 240 SR Matthews, N.C. (Butler) 18 Carlton Davis DB 6-1 190 FR Miami (Miami Norland) 19 Nick Ruffin DB 6-0 191 SO Duluth, Ga. (St. Pius X) 20 Jeremiah Dinson DB 5-11 172 FR Miami (American) 21 Kerryon Johnson RB 6-0 195 FR Madison (Madison Academy) 22 Tim Irvin DB 5-9 194 FR Miami (Westminster Christian) 23 Johnathan Ford DB 6-0 203 JR Big Cove (New Hope) 24 Blake Countess DB 5-10 185 SR Owings Mills, Md. (Michigan) 25 Peyton Barber RB 5-11 225 SO Alpharetta, Ga. (Milton) 25 Austin Dupper DB 5-9 179 JR Decatur (Decatur) 26 Justin Garrett LB 6-1 228 SR Stone Mountain, Ga. (Tucker) 27 Chandler Cox FB 6-1 232 FR Apopka, Fla. (Apopka) 28 Tray Matthews DB 6-1 213 SO Newnan, Ga. (Georgia) 29 Jovon Robinson RB 6-0 230 JR Memphis, Tenn. (Georgia Military College) 29 Tyler Stovall WR/H 6-1 207 SO Hokes Bluff, (Hokes Bluff) 30 Damian Lewis RB 5-9 208 JR Wetumpka (Wetumpka) 30 Tre’ Williams LB 6-2 238 SO Mobile (St. Paul’s Episcopal) 31 Javaris Davis DB 5-10 180 FR Jacksonville, Fla. (Ed White) 31 Duncan McKinney K 5-11 180 SR Florence (Florence) 32 Alec Brown DL 6-2 210 SO Trussville (Hewitt-Trussville) 33 Kenny Flowers LB 6-1 234 SR Lilburn, Ga. (Hutchinson CC) 33 Will Hastings K 5-10 165 FR Little Rock, Ark. (Pulaski Academy) 35 Tyler LaFlamme RB 5-9 196 FR Cumming, Ga. (South Forsyth) 36 Kamryn Pettway FB 6-0 242 RS FR Montgomery (Prattville) 36 Michael Sherwood DB 5-9 168 SO Riverdale, Ga. (Creekside) 37 Logan Rice WR 6-0 208 RS FR Rome, Ga. (Darlington School) 38 Daniel Carlson K 6-4 213 SO Colorado Springs, Colo. (Classical Academy) 39 Robert Muschamp FB 6-1 236 FR Rome, Ga. (Darlington)

40 Daniel Pond LB 6-1 202 SR Spanish Fort (Spanish Fort) 41 Jordan Colbert DB 6-1 226 FR Griffin, Ga. (Griffin) 41 Greg Hall TE 6-3 248 JR Athens, Ga. (North Georgia) 42 Gimel President DL 6-4 263 JR Mt. Pleasant, S.C. (Wando) 42 Keenan Sweeney FB 6-0 238 RS FR Snellville, Ga. (Brookwood) 43 Ian Shannon K/P 6-3 209 FR Marietta, Ga. (Marietta) 44 Raymond Lester DB 5-11 156 FR Marietta, Ga. (Marietta) 44 Thomas Taylor K/P 6-0 180 RS FR Birmingham (Spain Park) 45 Emory Carney TE 6-4 217 FR Augusta, Ga. (Lakeside) 45 Keymiya Harrell DL 6-4 270 SR Selma (Dallas County) 46 Ben Hood DB 5-8 174 FR Atlanta (Eagle’s Landing Christian Acad.)

46 Chris Laye TE 6-5 250 RS FR Cumming, Ga. (Lambert) 47 Cameron Toney LB 6-1 243 SO Huntsville (Huntsville) 48 Montavious Atkinson DB 6-1 183 FR Fairburn, Ga. (Langston Hughes) 48 Lawyer Tillman RB 6-0 195 SR Lacey, Wash. (Southern Oregon) 49 Jack Bjork P 6-1 200 SO Dallas, Texas (Highland Park) 49 Darrell Williams LB 6-2 234 FR Hoover (Hoover) 51 Richard McBryde LB 6-1 227 FR Troy (Charles Henderson) 51 Jonathan Parslow LS 6-1 204 SO Daphne(Daphne) 52 Xavier Dampeer OL 6-2 305 SR Mendenhall, Miss. (Copiah-Lincoln CC) 53 Devonte Danzey OL 6-2 305 SR Tampa, Fla. (Hutchinson CC) 54 Kaleb Kim OL 6-4 284 FR Buford, Ga. (Mill Creek) 55 Carl Lawson DL 6-2 257 SO Alpharetta, Ga. (Milton) 56 Avery Young OL 6-6 305 JR Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. (Palm Beach Gardens) 57 Deshaun Davis LB 5-11 236 RS FR Prichard, Ala. (Vigor) 58 Josh Shockley LB 5-10 215 RS FR McDonough, Ga. (Eagle’s Landing Christian Acad.)

59 Raashed Kennion DL 6-6 235 SO Jacksonville, Fla. (First Coast) 60 Blake Snow OL 6-5 275 FR Birmingham (Oak Mountain) 61 Ryan Meneely OL 6-1 310 FR McDonough, Ga. (Eagle’s Landing Christian Acad.)

62 Jaunta’vius Johnson DL 6-2 322 FR Lincoln(Lincoln) 63 Alex Kozan OL 6-4 300 JR Castle Rock, Colo. (Valor Christian) 64 Mike Horton OL 6-4 312 FR Atlanta (Lakeside) 65 Tucker Brown OL 6-3 265 RS FR Trussville (Hewitt-Trussville) 66 Bailey Sharp OL 6-5 293 FR Marietta, Ga. (Sprayberry) 67 Tyler Carr OL 6-5 313 FR Southside (Southside) 68 Zach Wade LS 5-10 205 RS FR Bremen, Ga. (Bremen) 69 Ike Powell LS 6-3 244 SO Tifton, Ga. (Tift County) 70 Robert Leff OL 6-6 288 JR Fairhope(Fairhope) 71 Braden Smith OL 6-6 286 SO Olathe, Kan. (Olathe South) 72 Shon Coleman OL 6-6 313 JR Memphis, Tenn. (Olive Branch) 73 Austin Golson OL 6-5 304 SO Prattville (Ole Miss) 74 Will Adams OL 6-7 303 JR Tyrone, Ga. (Sandy Creek) 75 Deon Mix OL 6-4 301 SO Batesville, Miss. (South Panola) 76 Jordan Diamond OL 6-4 304 JR Chicago, Ill. (Simeon) 77 Marquel Harrell OL 6-3 325 FR Fairburn, Ga. (Creekside) 78 Darius James OL 6-4 332 SO Killeen, Texas (Texas) 79 Andrew Williams DL 6-4 270 RS FR McDonough, Ga. (Eagle’s Landing Christian Acad.)

80 Marcus Davis WR 5-9 180 JR Boynton Beach, Fla. (American Heritage Boca-Delray) 81 Darius Slayton WR 6-2 182 FR Norcross, Ga. (Greater Atlanta Christian) 82 Melvin Ray WR 6-3 215 SR Tallahassee, Fla. (North Florida Christian) 83 Ryan Davis WR 5-9 164 FR St. Petersburg, Fla. (Lakewood) 84 Myron Burton Jr. WR 6-2 201 RS FR Lawrenceville, Ga. (Peachtree Ridge)

Thursday, August 13, 2015

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33

85 Jalen Harris TE 6-4 250 FR Montgomery(St. James) 86 Jimmie Stoudemire WR 6-3 192 FR Prattville (Prattville) 87 Gray King WR 5-10 170 SO Atlanta(Marist School) 89 Griffin King WR 5-10 173 FR Atlanta (Marist School) 90 Maurice Swain DL 6-5 295 JR LaGrange, Ga. (Mississippi Gulf Coast CC) 91 Kevin Phillips P 6-0 185 JR Greenwood, Miss. (Mississippi Gulf Coast CC) 92 Justin Thomas-Thornton DL 6-5 228 RS FR Prichard, Ala. (Vigor) 93 Tyler Carter DL 6-1 243 RS FR Decatur (Decatur) 94 Devaroe Lawrence DL 6-2 281 JR Greenville, S.C. (Georgia Military College) 95 Dontavius Russell DL 6-3 295 RS FR Carrollton, Ga. (Carrollton)

FILE PHOTO

EMILY ENFINGER / PHOTO EDITOR

Josh Holsey (15) and Robert Leff (70) emerge from the tunnel before A-Day on April 18.

Aubie pumps up the crowd against South Carolina in 2014.

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

FOOTBALL

Practice is making perfect early on for Malzahn and the Tigers Evan McCullers SPORTS REPORTER

Auburn began fall practice on Tuesday, Aug. 4, in preparation for a season with high expectations.

Several position battles have emerged early in fall camp, while players at positions where starters are already decided have focused on improvement and developing chemistry with their teammates.

One player in the latter category is quarterback Jeremy Johnson.

After serving two years as Nick Marshall’s backup, Johnson won the starting job in spring practice and has emerged as a leader on the team.

The junior has garnered national attention in the preseason, appearing on the preseason AllSEC second team along with numerous preseason award watch lists.

Coach Gus Malzahn said the coaching staff has full confidence in Johnson’s abilities to

lead the offense.

“He’s got a lot of reps with the [first team] and had to prepare like he was the starter a lot of times in the last two years and he played very well,” Malzahn said. “I think he’s got a very good grasp of the offense.”

Senior receiver Ricardo Louis said Johnson’s accuracy gives the receivers an opportunity to make big plays in the passing game.

“I’ve seen him make some throws that I’ve never seen any quarterback make,” Louis said.

“Right on the money, every time.”

While Johnson is a lock at quarterback, his partner in the backfield is yet to be determined.

Four players are vying for the starting job at running back, including returners Roc Thomas and Peyton Barber, junior college transfer Jovon Robinson and freshman Kerryon Johnson.

Malzahn plans to give the backs equal reps in fall practice until a clear number one threat emerges.

“The good thing is we’ve got options and

DAVID TOPPER / PHOTOGRAPHER

Kris Frost (17) will be counted on to lead the defense this year

guys we feel good about,” Malzahn said. “I think that’s the best thing. You can never have enough running back depth.”

Depth may not be an issue at running back, but it certainly could be in the secondary, where Auburn struggled a year ago.

Graduate transfer Blake Countess was an All-Big Ten player at Michigan and will be counted on to make a big impact in his one and only year on the Plains along with Tray Matthews, who will likely start at safety after sitting out last season following his transfer from Georgia.

Returning starters Jonathan Jones and Johnathan Ford were both named to preseason All-SEC teams at SEC Media Days in July, and Joshua Holsey was a contributor in 2014 who is expected to take on a larger role.

With cornerback T.J. Davis out through at least August while recovering from an ACL injury, unproven players such as Stephen Roberts, Nick Ruffin, Tim Irvin and Carlton Davis

will be counted on provide depth on the back end of Auburn’s defense.

The secondary may not be the Tigers’ strongest position group, but the defense as a whole shined in Auburn’s first fall scrimmage on Monday, Aug. 10.

Auburn’s offense failed to score a touchdown in the 90-play scrimmage, which focused mostly on the running game.

Malzahn was excited to see the defense bring a new energy and physicality under new coordinator Will Muschamp. “[The defense] flat got after the offense,” Malzahn said. “We hadn’t had any scrimmages since I’ve been the head coach that we’ve had a dominant defensive performance like that.”

Auburn’s second scrimmage of the fall will be held on Saturday, Aug. 15, and will feature more passing, according to Malzahn. The Tigers will then practice on Sunday, Aug. 16, before taking Monday, Aug. 17, off for the first day of fall classes.

EMILY ENFINGER / PHOTO EDITOR

Michigan transfer Blake Countess (24) is one player that has stood out to coaches during fall practice.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

35

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

CROSS-COUNTRY

Cross-country teams look to build on 2014 performance Evan McCullers SPORTS REPORTER

Following encouraging performances late in the 2014 season, Auburn’s cross country teams will look to continue their success in 2015.

The men’s team had strong finishes at the SEC Championships and NCAA South Regional, finishing third as a team and placing two runners in the top 10 at both events.

Both of those runners, Ty McCormack and Kane Grimster, graduated, leaving Redatu Semeon as the lone senior and leader of the men’s team.

Several freshmen were asked to contribute in 2014, and seventh-year coach Mark Carroll said their improvement will be key in 2015.

“That experience will help them tremendously,” Carroll said. “The big thing for the men’s side is to get better every race and keep improving.”

The women had a disappointing ninth-place

finish at the SEC Championships.

However, the team had a successful season overall in 2014.

Molly McKenna had a strong freshman season in 2014, earning a spot on the Freshman All-SEC team and the All-South Region team.

While McKenna will be counted on to lead the team, the women will be balanced, as the team returns its top five finishers from the SEC Championships.

“The good thing about having so many returnees is that we don’t have to rely on one person to lead us,” Carroll said. “They are able to push each other and make each other better.”

Carroll said he expects to see vast improvements from the women’s team this season.

“All the girls have really improved year after year so heading into their junior years, they know the process,” Carroll said. “They have been training well in the summer, so I am excited to see how they all compete this season.”

CONTRIBUTED BY AUBURN ATHLETICS

Redatu Semeon (76) will be looked on to lead Auburn’s cross-country team this year.

36

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back Thursday, August 13, 2015Thursday, August 13, 2015 The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

PLAINSMAN PICKS Sam Butler Sports Editor

Evan McCullers Emily Shoffit Sports Reporter Sports Reporter

National Champion Heisman Winner

Trevone Boykin, QB, TCU

Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson

Trevone Boykin, QB, TCU

Playoff Teams

Auburn 2015 Record SEC East Winner SEC West Winner

37

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

12-2 13-1

13-1

FOOTBALL

Wondering about Williams Evan McCullers Sports Reporter The Auburn football team has been without its star wide receiver for part of fall camp, and a return date is yet to be determined.

D’haquille “Duke” Williams was not at practice beginning Friday, Aug. 7.

Offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee spoke with the media following practice and said Williams was dealing with “personal business.”

Coach Gus Malzahn spoke with the media following practice Saturday, Aug. 8, which Williams also missed, and went more in-depth about the senior’s status going forward.

“He had a discipline issue that we’re taking care of,” Malzahn said. “When he takes care of that, he’ll be back on the field. I’ll make that decision. …

Bottom line, nobody is bigger than the team around here and that’s between me and him.”

Williams led the Tigers with 45 catches and five receiving touchdowns in 2014, despite playing in only 10 of Auburn’s 13 games. He was also second on the team with 730 receiving yards, only 11 yards behind Sammie Coates.

The LaPlace, Louisiana, native was the No. 1 rated junior college prospect in the 2014 recruiting class. He burst on to the scene against Arkansas, catching nine passes for 154 yards and a touchdown in the season opener.

Williams continued his solid play until he was forced to miss two games after suffering a sprained MCL against Texas A&M. He returned to action in the Iron Bowl and caught seven passes for 121 yards but was then suspended for the Outback Bowl for a violation of team rules.

Following his success in 2014, expectations were high for Williams entering the 2015 season.

NFL draft expert Mel Kiper had high praise for Williams in January, calling him the No. 1 receiver in the 2016 draft class.

"I think when you look at Duke Williams, he'll be the No. 1 guy and next

year he'll go into the season right there at the top,” Kiper said. “There's not going to be many receivers rated ahead, if any rated ahead of Duke Williams going into the season. He's going to have a very high grade."

Coates has departed for the NFL, so Williams was set to be the No. 1 receiving threat under new quarterback Jeremy Johnson.

Duke was a preseason All-SEC selection at SEC Media Days in July and was placed on watch lists for the Walter Camp and Maxwell awards, which go to the nation’s top college football player.

Without his production, Auburn will turn to receivers such as Ricardo Louis, Marcus Davis and Melvin Ray to step up until Williams returns.

“The good thing is, we’ve got a lot of receivers that we feel very good about,” Malzahn said. “We’re relying on those guys for leadership.”

Louis said the receiving corps will continue to work hard to improve, with or without Williams.

“We don’t skip a beat,” Louis said. “We have a goal and we want to accomplish that. We’re going to do whatever it takes and not let distractions hold us back.”

FILE PHOTO

If Duke doesn’t return, the Tigers could be in trouble.

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The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

Thursday, August 13, 2015

SOCCER

Tigers aim to rebound from 2014 Evan McCullers SPORTS REPORTER

Auburn volleyball did not have the season it was hoping for in 2014, but the Tigers are working hard to improve in 2015.

Coach Rick Nold is happy with where the team is entering the 2015 season.

“Last year [we] struggled, but I thought we had a great spring, made some big improvements,” Nold said. “The girls worked hard this summer, and you can see that.

We’re starting off on a much higher level than we did last year.”

The team returns all six starters and the libero from last year’s team, which went 13-18 overall and 5-13 in SEC play.

While there are only two seniors on the team, most players have extensive experience and are ready to build off the lessons learned during the tough 2014.

“The group we have, they know what to expect,” Nold said. “They know the things that maybe we struggled with some last year and that’s why they’re determined to start right this year and really, really compete this year.”

Junior middle blocker Stephanie Campbell will be counted on as a leader of this year’s team.

“We had a taste of what losing was like last year,” Campbell said. “This year we definitely have a drive to get better every single day in practice, and there’s just a really big focus on holding each other accountable and not letting losing be OK.” The Tigers have five newcomers this year, three freshmen and two transfers, who have pushed the veterans for playing time.

“It’s been really fun in practice,” Nold said. “Normally I have a feel for what kind of lineup we’re going to have, but right now it’s been a battle at every spot.”

Auburn will play a school record eight nationally televised games in 2015 on the SEC Network and ESPNU, giving the program unprecedented exposure.

“Fans that maybe weren’t volleyball fans before, they’re getting an opportunity [to watch games],” Nold said. “They fall in love with the sport, so it’s been a huge blessing for us.”

Auburn will open the 2014 season against Stephen F. Austin on Aug. 28 at Auburn Arena.

EMILY ENFINGER / PHOTO EDITOR

Stephanie Campbell (32) celebrates with teammates against Alabama on Oct. 22, 2014.

SOCCER

Balance important to Tigers’ success Emily Shoffit SPORTS REPORTER

The Auburn women's soccer team is motivated to usher in their 2015 season with the determination to continue the program's improvement for a third year.

The Tigers exited the 2014 NCAA Tournament in the second round, one goal short of advancing to the program's first-ever NCAA Sweet 16.

Auburn is primed for conference play with sights set on the next step into the postseason.

Defense has been the team's success strategy and it continues to improve.

Last season, Auburn recorded 10 shutouts with rising redshirt junior Alyse Scott in goal, tying for second-most ever in a season by an Auburn team. When entering second round match-ups in the NCAA tour-

nament, four of Auburn's previous five matches ended in the a shutout.

Improvements have been made on the offensive side of the ball as well.

Auburn should see a boost in scoring this year with an offense as talented as the defense.

The team lost two starters from one year ago, so it will still be bringing back nearly 80 percent of its offense. Five of the team's top six goal scorers will return this season, as the 36 goals netted last year was the most since 2011.

Of those returning scorers, four had 10 points or more last year, reaffirming Auburn as one of the more balanced attacks in the SEC. In preseason voting by the league's 14 coaches, Auburn was predicted to finish seventh in the SEC this season.

Last season's preseason poll tabbed the Tigers at an 11th place fin-

Casie Ramsier (24) fights for the ball.

ish, which led to an expectation-shattering tie for fifth finish following five conference match wins and a 14th-straight berth in the SEC tournament.

The team's first home match of the regular season is Aug. 28 with a 7 p.m. start versus UAB.

FILE PHOTO

Redshirt junior Alyse Scott anchors an Auburn team looking to improve upon 2014.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

39

The Auburn Plainsman: Welcome Back

EQUESTRIAN

Equestrian poised to rein in a successful season Maria McIlwain COMMUNITY EDITOR

After falling to Georgia in the semifinals of the National Collegiate Equestrian Association Championship, Auburn is preparing to begin the 2015-16 season with “pretty high expectations,” according to coach Greg Williams.

Williams said a strong group of newcomers will supplement a core of returning riders.

“I have huge expectations for this year,” Williams said. “Even just building from that, I think we will be national championship contenders this year.”

Williams said he has built up an incredible staff that has worked hard before the team had even come to the Plains.

“I don’t think we’ve worked any harder than we have so far this year,” Williams said. “If the girls come back as ready as I think they will, with winning a national championship on their mind, I think we’ll be very hard to beat.”

Williams said he hopes for more consistency across events this season and said he expects the entire team to work together.

“Overall, we’re going to drive for one goal,” Williams said. “Prior to college, it’s very much an individual sport. So it is different when you come together. When you come to Auburn, that’s something you have to buy into.”

He said one weak point in their game was the Western event. However, new coach Mary Meneely

FILE PHOTO

Elizabeth Benson competes during a match in the 2014-15 season.

will help improve that area.

“We weren’t pulling in enough wins, and there’s a lot more meets we could have won,” Williams said.

Williams said the coaching staff is more unified with the addition of Meneely.

“It just feels like kind of one machine now,” Williams said.

Williams said he hopes to build a dynasty through good recruiting and performance.

“If people think that Auburn equestrian has been a success so far, they need to stay tuned,” Williams said. “We’re about to dial it up.”

He said any of the SEC matchups are exciting for him, as well as a meet against Oklahoma State on Oct. 17.

“Anytime we’re going to be playing the Georgias, the South Carolinas, the Texas A&Ms, those are always really big ones,” Williams said.

The first competition is the Orange and Blue Scrimmage on Friday, Sept. 11, at 3 p.m. at the Auburn University Horse Center.