October 25, 2012
Auburn vs. Texas A&M
The Auburn Plainsman
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The Auburn Plainsman
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Auburn’s season to date leaves much to be desired Despite hiring two talented coordinators, the Tigers have been unable to get anything going on both sides of scrimmage. Here’s a recap of the games played so far. Ali Jenkins Sports@ theplainsman.com
No. 14 Clemson 26 Auburn 19 Auburn entered the Chick-filA game with one thing in mind: to take a step forward from the 2011 season. The players knew it would be tough. The coaches knew they couldn’t underestimate a talented Clemson team. The fans knew it would be a long shot but still had faith. Tied at 16 going into the fourth quarter, Auburn had a chance to force the upset. Junior kicker Cody
Parkey made a 36-yard field goal, his career-high fourth field goal of the game, to push the Tigers to a 19–16 lead with 12:50 left on the clock. Then it happened. The Tigers from South Carolina roared back with 10 unanswered points to outlast Auburn and escape with a 26– 19 win. Mississippi State 28 Auburn 10 The Tigers’ trip to Starkville, Miss. for their SEC opener was a chance to prove to the nation that this Auburn team can compete in college football’s toughest conference. The Tiger offense struggled through the first 30 minutes of play, with sophomore quarterback Kiehl Frazier
completing just 1-for-7 at the half. Senior running back Onterio McCalebb returned the second-half kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown, giving Auburn a 10–7 lead. But the momentum didn’t last long. Mississippi State quickly responded with a 75yard touchdown drive to regain the lead. Quarterback Tyler Russell picked apart the Auburn defense, throwing for three touchdowns and 222 yards on the day to hand the Tigers their second straight loss. Louisiana-Monroe 28 Auburn 31 OT Auburn’s lone win of the season came against a red-hot Louisiana-Monroe team coming off a huge upset against then-
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ranked No. 8 Arkansas. Auburn was leading 28–14 in the fourth quarter, but ULM rallied back to tie the game with 1:18 left in regulation. Auburn’s special teams came through in overtime as Parkey’s field goal clinched the team’s first win. The offense again struggled, with Frazier completing 10-of-18 for 130 yards with one touchdown and one interception. And again, for the third week in a row, the defense was manhandled. ULM’s quarterback, Kolton Browning, threw 28-of-46 for 237 yards and three touchdowns. No. 2 LSU 12 Auburn 10 To most, this game represents what could have been for the 2012 Tigers. Auburn’s defense showed an ESPN audience what it could do against a top-10 team, forcing two key LSU turnovers and holding the Bayou Bengals to a season-low 351 total yards. But in the final minutes, Auburn was unable to make a crucial stop and allowed LSU to continue its drive. By the time the Tigers got the ball back, there were only 37 seconds left on the clock. The offense, starting on its own 20, managed to move only 17 yards, forcing a desperation throw by Frazier with no time remaining, which was intercepted. The defense stole the show for Auburn, as Frazier was just 13-of-22 for 97 yards with two interceptions. Arkansas 24 Auburn 7 Auburn took another step back against the Razorbacks, turning the ball over an incredible five times. The Tigers tried three different quarterbacks in the game in hopes of creating a much-needed offensive spark. Frazier got the start, but was pulled after completing 9-of-14 for 118 yards and one interception in the first half. Junior Clint Moseley entered the game for the first time all season and fin-
ished 13-of-21 for 163 yards and a touchdown, but his two interceptions and four sacks tell the real story. Freshman Jonathan Wallace helped the offense when called upon, rushing twice for 11 yards. Auburn’s defense had a similarly dismal game, allowing Arkansas to score in the second half of an SEC game for the first time this season. Ole Miss 41 Auburn 20 The Tigers showed a spark of offensive production after scoring 17 straight points in the second quarter. Ole Miss took no time to respond, outscoring the Tigers 27–3 in the remainder of the game. Moseley earned the starting quarterback position, but a bad snap in the first quarter paved the way for a 14–0 Rebel lead barely 10 minutes into the game. Auburn started its scoring streak following a 74-yard touchdown drive at the start of the second quarter, but the Tiger defense couldn’t compete with Ole Miss quarterback Bo Wallace and company. Vanderbilt 17 Auburn 13 Auburn’s offensive woes continued at Vanderbilt as Moseley completed 14-of-20 for just 98 yards on the day. The Commodores outgained Auburn 382– 212 in total offense. Following a fumble recovery by senior linebacker Ashton Richardson midway through the second quarter, the Tigers started from the Commodore 36-yard line trailing 7–0. On third-and-goal from the 10, Moseley threw behind a wide-open Emory Blake in the end zone, setting up Parkey for a 27-yard field goal attempt with 8:10 left in the half. Tied 10 all at the half, Vanderbilt scored the game-winning touchdown at the 7:34 mark in the third quarter. Currently 6–1 on the season, the ball is in the Tigers’ court if they hope to add a win.
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Thursday, October 25, 2012
Recruiting class holds promise Andrew Yawn Sports@ theplainsman.com
At 1–6, Auburn has no chance of being ranked in the BCS, AP or USA Today/Coaches polls. Its recruiting class, on the other hand, remains ranked No. 9 nationally, despite the team’s poor play. As Auburn dropped game after game this season, the commitment of the recruits has become a question mark. So far, however, the class remains intact and littered with prospects who have the ability to return Auburn to its former success. Reuben Foster (5-star) Foster’s transfer to Auburn High School and subsequent tattoo of the Auburn logo on his forearm all but cement his place on the team next year. The No. 1 linebacker in the country — and the No. 2 overall prospect — already has the ability to lead the team with his play making. In time, he may become the kind of defensive leader Auburn hasn’t had since Takeo Spikes. Carl Lawson (5-star) In addition to the No. 1 linebacker, Auburn also nabbed the No. 1 defensive end. The 6-foot2-inch, 253-pound lineman has the size and speed to contribute immediately. If Corey Lemonier opts to stick with Auburn for his senior season, the Tigers’ edge rush from Dee Ford, Gimel President, Lawson and Lemonier will be one of the most feared groups in the SEC. Dee Liner (5-star) In addition to the No. 1 defensive end, Liner’s commitment gives Auburn the second-best defensive end as well. At 274 pounds, the Muscle Shoals native has more bulk than Lawson and will most likely be used to set the edge on the strong side.
Courtesy of Inside The Auburn Tigers
Dee Liner, 5-star defensive end recruit, is set to give Auburn’s defense the edge. With Lawson rushing the quarterback’s blind side and Liner collapsing the pocket opposite him, the future is bright for a defense desperate for playmakers. Earnest Robinson (4-star) Robinson is Auburn’s lone wide receiver recruit thus far. McGill-Toolen Catholic High School quarterback Jason Smith has also committed to Auburn as an athlete, but his size would most likely limit him to playing slot receiver should he convert to receiver full time. At 6-feet3-inches, Robinson looks more like the go-to wideout Auburn’s offense lacks. With freshman Sammie Coates emerging this season, Robinson’s development will be key with senior receiver Emory Blake departing after the season.
Jeremy Johnson (4-star) Auburn’s quarterback woes are no secret. Heading into 2013, it seems neither Clint Moseley nor Kiehl Frazier is the answer for the eighth-worst passing offense in the nation. At 6-feet-6-inches and 215 pounds, Johnson is already drawing comparisons to what Cam Newton was and what Frazier was supposed to be. Assuming Johnson sticks with the Tigers, the coaching staff will have a decision to make between disappointing experience and unproven potential. Other recruits: Trey Johnson (4-star LB) Jordan Wilkins (4-star RB) Tashawn Bower (4-star DE) Jason Smith (4-star ATH) Jarrad Davis (3-star LB)
Thursday, October 25, 2012
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Auburn’s top five gameday drink recipes Luke Corona, bartender at En Fuego in downtown Auburn, spills on his customers’ favorite gameday drinks and shots.
1. Luna Azul Ingredients Bacardi Dragon Berry Blue Curacao Malibu Banana Lime Juice Sprite Directions Pour ingredients into a shaker and shake. Serve in a martini glass, using a lemon as a garnish. The appeal “It’s a martini, so girls feel classy. But it’s blue and very pretty. …And that’s signature to En Fuego.”
2. Ocean Water Ingredients Malibu Blue Curacao Soda water Lime Juice Sprite Directions Shake the sprite, lime, blue curacao and rum in a shaker. Then, pour the mixture through a strainer into a glass with one hand while pouring soda water into the same glass with the other hand. The appeal “It’s more tangy. It tastes like the ‘Ocean Water’ from Sonic.”
3. Grape Monster 4. Grateful Dead Ingredients Bacardi 151 Blue Curacao Grenadine Sour Mix Pineapple Mix Directions Pour into a shaker and shake, then pour through a strainer into a shot glass. The appeal “The interesting thing about that is they make it, but we don’t have any grape flavor, so you have to mix all these things to make it taste like grape.”
Ingredients Vodka Rum Gin Tequila Triple Sec Sprite Sour Mix Razzmataz Directions Mix in a glass, Long Island Iced Tea-style. The appeal “Basically, it’s a Long Island Iced Tea, but instead of Coke, it’s raspberry.”
Emily Morris / Assistant Photo Editor
From left: The Luna Azul, the En Fuego Shot and the Grape Monster are some favorites served by En Fuego bartender Luke Corona.
5. En Fuego Shot Ingredients Vodka Triple Sec Grenadine Sour Mix Directions Pour the ingredients into a shot glass. The ingredients should form a series of layers that will appear to be floating. The appeal “(The ingredients) float, like half and half.”
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The Auburn Plainsman
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Junior Jay Prosch speaks about optimism, improvement Ali Jenkins Sports Reporter
Coming into a new offense as a junior isn’t an easy task, but fullback Jay Prosch has shown it isn’t impossible. Despite having his own set of personal setbacks, namely losing his mother to cancer, Prosch has shown a sense of determination in the face of adversity. While his main role is lead blocking for the running back, as the season progresses he has found himself being called upon to do a little extra. In last week’s matchup against Vanderbilt, Prosch had two catches for 9 yards and a 5-yard rush. The Illinois transfer is happy with his expanding role and looks forward to seeing more catch and run opportunities in the games ahead.
“I’ve always thought I had hands, but I’ve never really gotten the opportunity to catch the ball much,” Prosch said. “So now hopefully that will open up some more, but we’ll see.” It is no secret this season has been less than perfect. As a player, nothing hurts worse than losing, especially close games, but Prosch said he knows that to improve as an individual and a team as a whole, he and the rest of the Tigers can’t get caught up in the negativity that surrounds them. “It’s a grind,” Prosch said. “I think everybody is a little down, because it is almost impossible not to be; but you know, you just have to stay positive. Even though some people may think that’s stupid or that’s impossible, it’s not about that. “We’re in this together, and
“
It’s a grind. I think everybody is a little down, because it is almost impossible not to be; but you know, you just have to stay positive.” —Jay Prosch Fullback
we have no other choice except to be positive and look forward, so that’s what we’re trying to do — just look forward and just take it game by game to do what we can to get better.”
Courtesy of Todd Van Emst
Fullback Jay Prosch blacks for Tre Mason during the Mississippi State game Saturday, Sept. 8.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
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Other weekend games for serious sports fans Friday, Oct. 26
Swimming vs. Notre Dame (women only) 4:00 p.m. Volleyball at South Carolina 6:00 p.m. Cross Country vs. SEC Cross Country Championships All Day Mens Tennis vs. UNLV Fall Classic All Day
Saturday, Oct. 27
Mens Tennis vs. UNLV Fall Classic All Day
Sunday, Oct. 28
Volleyball at Ole Miss 1:30 p.m. Womens Golf vs. Betsy Rawls Longhorn Invitational All Day Mens Tennis vs. UNLV Fall Classic All Day
Katherine McCahey / photographer
The swimming team will host Notre Dame Friday, Oct. 26 at 4 p.m.
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Thursday, October 25, 2012
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Weekend at a glance: events and attractions Occurring all month Farmer in the Dell pumpkin patch Hayrides, a pumpkin-launching trebuchet and pumpkins still on the vine are some of the main attractions at the Fifth Annual Farmer in the Dell pumpkin patch, located in Loachapoka off County Road 61. For hours, visit Farmerinthedellpumpkinpatch.com Pope’s Haunted Farm With an all-new 3-D haunted house, Pope’s Haunted Farm should attract even more visitors this year. Other events include a haunted hayride, barn and forest. Tickets are $12 for one event, $20 for two events and $25 for three events, and the 3-D event is an extra $5. For tickets, hours and directions, visit Popeshayride.com.
Thursday, Oct. 25
Friday, Oct. 26
2012 Beat Bama Food Drive CANstruction Competition With bins placed all around Auburn’s campus, it’s almost too easy to help “Beat Bama” in the East Alabama Food Bank’s competition. This year’s goal is to receive more than 315,000 pounds of food, which is the amount the Food Bank distributes each month.
Football Friday This all-day series of events will include everything from lectures to walking tours. See Auburntigers.com for the complete schedule. 24th Annual Pumpkin Carve Sponsored by Auburn University’s chapter of the American Institute of Architecture Students, the pumpkin carve will begin at 9 a.m. at the Dudley Hall courtyard.
“Red Tails” screening and discussion A screening and discussion of “Red Tails,” a film based on the crew of African American pilots in the Tuskegee training program in World War II, will take place at Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art from 5:30– 8:30 p.m.
Cotton Pickin’ Pumpkin Patch at Lazenby Farm A corn maze and hayride are the main attractions at Lazenby Farm off Lee Road 54. It will be open from 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Haunted Auburn & Opelika The Alabama Paranormal Research Team will spook locals with haunted history starting at noon at the Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library in Opelika.
9th Annual Celebrity Home Run Derby Partnering with the Hudson Family Foundation, Auburn’s baseball team will host this event at 7 p.m. at Plainsman Park. A $2 donation is requested.
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Sunday, Oct. 28 3rd Annual “Step It Up Auburn” 1-mile walk/5k run Alpha Xi Delta sorority’s walk and run will fund Autism Speaks, and the event will feature a visit from Aubie, face painting, games and prizes. Registration begins at 11 a.m., and the event will start at12:30 p.m. Registration is $10 and includes a T-shirt. 3rd Annual Orangefest Donations to the East Alabama Food Bank, activities and snacks are all happening at the 2012 Orangefest at Trinity United Methodist Church of Opelika from 3 p.m.–6 p.m. There will also be a trunk-ortreat event for children. Admission is free.
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The Auburn Plainsman
Thursday, October 25, 2012
The real AU family: A call for support Robert Lee Editor@ theplainsman.com
When the news was confirmed that Rita Chizik had passed away, an emotion far beyond the reach of football struck the Plains. No matter how many games we lose, the Tigers will recover and fight back. Losing a football game is unfortunate; losing a family member is devastating. I want to extend my deepest condolences to the Chizik family. We understand the difficult times the family is going through, and our thoughts and prayers are with them. As Saturday draws closer, our football team prepares to challenge a team that is new to the SEC, but has shown promise with its young and vivacious roster. Texas A&M will travel to Jordan-Hare Stadium, an afternoon game, finally, to face the Tigers. Our football program has seen tremendous leadership skills over the years, and possibly none more than the 2010 national championship team.
But when the players are recruited as top recruits, the coaches are brought from the NFL and the team is just two years removed from a national championship, wins are expected. Whether personnel changes are made is not up to us, but when you have thousands of students screaming their hearts out on Saturday to support a team they love, the decision to play hard and with passion is a decision that needs to be made. Although I have never experienced such a dramatic swing in wins and loses in any football team, it’s not too late to battle. As the Aggies find their way to Auburn, I expect the student section to be packed before their cowboy boots hit the ground. College Station can be a rowdy environment, but the Auburn family has a responsibility to be loud and support our team Saturday afternoon. The talent is obvious; now it’s time to show college football the difference between a team that has talent and a team that can utilize it. The Tigers must find a way to remain consistent. The Auburn family is behind the Tigers. Are you?
The Auburn Plainsman Newsroom 334-844-9108 Robert E. Lee, Editor Chelsea Harvey, Managing Editor Andrew Yawn, Sports Editor Ali Jenkin, Sports Reporter John Burns, Sports Reporter Jenny Steele, Copy Editor Bianca Seward, Asst. Copy Editor
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Rebecca Croomes / Photo Editor
Above: Jonathan Mincy runs onto Jordan-Hare Stadium before the game against LSU Saturday, Sept. 22. Below: Tight end CJ Uzomah filled in for injuried starter Phillip Lutzenkirchen during the Vanderbilt game Saturday, Oct. 20.Courtesy of Todd Van Emst.
Youthful talent The Tigers are 1–6, but have seen exceptional performances from a few underclassmen. Freshman cornerback Jonathan Mincy has 39 tackles on the season and 26 solo, and sophomore backup tight end CJ Uzomah caught two passes for 23 yards against Vanderbilt after replacing an injured Phillip Lutzenkirchen. Courtesy of Todd Van Emst AU Student Center Suite 1111 255 Heisman Dr. Auburn, AL 36849
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Thursday, October 25, 2012
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Aggies make SEC even better John Burns Sports@ theplainsman.com
Courtesy of The Battalion
Christine Michael protects the ball from defenders. Michael has 49 rushing attempts so far this season with five rushing touchdowns.
Those who thought it was impossible for a team to enter the SEC and fit in need to take a good look at Texas A&M and think again. The Aggies have only lost two games this season, falling short to two of the best teams in the league by slim margins. They lost early in the season to Florida and last week to LSU. Texas A&M has become another competitor in an already stout SEC conference, and it is only the football team’s first year in the conference.
They have one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks to play college football in freshman Johnny Manziel, who already has 24 combined rushing and passing touchdowns this season. To put that in perspective, Cam Newton had 25 total touchdowns through the first seven games in 2010. Manziel’s favorite target, freshman wide receiver Mike Evans, has been a large part of the offense, with 625 receiving yards this season. Because of Manziel’s arm and legs, the Aggie offense has been one of the most powerful in the conference so far. The future is bright for the Texas A&M football team. They have brought a young, talented team to the SEC and
will be able to continue building it. Having roots in Texas, one of the best states to find football players, has made the Aggies a competitive football team, but being a member of the SEC will do wonders for the team. The label of SEC will help Texas A&M with recruiting, but it works both ways. Because the conference now has a foothold in arguably the deepest talent reservoir in the nation, more recruits will funnel into other SEC schools. The addition of Texas A&M has brought, and will bring, even more talent into what is considered the strongest conference in the nation, and the SEC will be much more competitive because of it. ©2012 MOE’S FRANCHISOR LLC
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Thursday, October 25, 2012
Auburn vs. Texas A&M key matchups
What the Tigers have to do to stay alive in the SEC hunt for success Texas A&M defensive line vs. Auburn offensive line The Aggies’ defensive line is ranked No. 14 in the nation with 21 sacks, 9.5 of those coming from junior defensive end Damontre Moore, and 49 tackles for a loss on the season. Auburn’s o-line is on the other end of the spectrum. The front five have allowed the second highest number of tackles for losses in the nation and rank No. 116 nationally with 24 sacks allowed. Auburn has shown it can’t win without an offense. With starting right tackle Avery Young out for the season, the challenge is that much greater for the inexperienced offensive line. When the Tigers have the ball, whichever team controls the line of scrimmage will control the tempo of the game, and Auburn’s best chance to win lies in its ability to keep the ball away from the Texas A&M offense.
Texas A&M running game vs. Auburn linebackers Auburn has had difficulty against dual-threat quarterbacks this season. With Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel and running back Ben Malena coming to town, the team must rectify its tackling problems. The Tigers’ defensive line has had difficulties stopping the run at the line of scrimmage, and it’s almost a certainty that Manziel and Malena will get to the second level. The linebackers’ job is to keep them there. Manziel leads the team with 108 carries for 703 yards and 10 rushing touchdowns. As a result of his quarterback’s game-breaking ability, Malena has seen fewer touches than Manziel, but has still produced 462 yards and four touchdowns on the ground while averaging 6.4 yards per carry. The Tigers’ tackling issues have helped opponents amass 194 yards per game on the ground against them. Senior Daren Bates, the team’s leader in tackles, has been one of the few bright spots of the Auburn defense and is the surest tackler of the bunch. The linebackers’ second leading tackler, Jake Holland, had no tackles in last week’s loss to Vanderbilt as the coaches handed the middle linebacking reins to freshman Cassanova McKinzy. Texas A&M has a powerful offense that can score on the ground or in the air. The key for Auburn is to eliminate one of the two options and make the dynamic Aggie offense more predictable.
Courtesy of The Battalion
Aggies quarterback Johnny Manziel has rushed and passed for a combined 24 touchdowns this season.
Auburn vs. the fans With all preseason expectations now abandoned, it’s difficult to find fans that criticize Auburn more than its own. With every turnover, miscommunication and noticeable mistake comes the wrath of a fan base not quite weaned off the 2010 national championship run. The team already seems to be in a precarious position from a leadership standpoint. Dissent among the coaches and players
has done nothing for a team that will most likely play together for the next few years at Auburn, and on Saturday, the boo birds will be waiting to flock to any and all errors. If the team goes down early or blows another lead, it will be an ugly affair in Jordan-Hare, and the team doesn’t seem to have the camaraderie or the mental toughness to handle losing the fan base completely.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Team depth charts
Defensive End Dee Ford - Jr. Craig Sanders - Jr. Nosa Eguae - Jr.
Quarterback Kiehl Frazier - So. Clint Moseley - Jr. Jonathan Wallace - Fr.
Quarterback Johnny Manziel - Fr. Matt Joeckel - So. Jameill Showers - So.
Defensive Tackle Jeffrey Whitaker - Jr. Gabe Wright - So. Tyler Nero - Fr.
Running Back Onterio McCalebb - Sr. Tre Mason - So. Mike Blakely - RS Fr.
Tail Back Christine Michael - Sr. Ben Malena - Jr. Trey Williams - Fr.
Defensive Tackle Angelo Blackson - So. Kenneth Carter - Jr. Devaunte Sigler - So.
Fullback J.C. Copeland - Jr. Connor Neighbors - So.
Wide Receiver U. Nwachukwu - Sr. Sabian Holmes - Fr.
Wide Receiver Emory Blake - Sr. Sammie Coates - RS Fr. Ricardo Louis - Fr.
Wide Receiver Mike Evans - Fr. Derel Walker - Jr. Nate Askew - Jr.
Wide Receiver 2 Trovon Reed - So. Travante Stallworth- Sr.
Wide Receiver Ryan Swope - Sr. M. Kennedy - So. Kenric McNeal - Sr. T. Johnson - Fr.
Defensive End Corey Lemonier - Jr. LaDarius Owens - So. Nosa Eguae - Jr. Outside Linebacker (WILL) Jonathan Evans - Sr. Justin Garrett - So. Middle Linebacker (MIKE) Jake Holland - Jr. Cassanova McKinzy - Fr.
3-wide Quan Bray - So. Tight End Brandon Fulse - So. C.J. Uzomah - So.
Outside Linebacker (SAM) Daren Bates - Sr. Kris Frost - RS Fr.
Left Tackle Greg Robinson - RS Fr. Shon Coleman - RS Fr.
Cornerback Chris Davis - Jr. Jonathon Mincy - So.
Left Guard John Sullen - Sr. Alex Kozan - Fr.
Safety Jermaine Whitehead - So. Demetruce McNeal - Jr.
Center Reese Dismukes - So. Tunde Fariyike - So.
Safety 2 Demetruce McNeal - Jr. Trent Fisher - So.
Right Guard Chad Slade - So. C. Westerman - RS Fr.
Cornerback Ryan White - Jr. T’Sharvan Bell - Sr.
Right Tackle Avery Young - Fr. Patrick Miller - Fr.
Punt Returner Quan Bray - So. Trovon Reed - So.
Place Kicker Cody Parkey - Jr. Alex Kviklys - Fr.
Kick Returner Quan Bray - So.
Punter Steven Clark - Jr. J.D. Strawbridge - Fr.
Holder Ryan White - Jr.
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Snapper Jake Mathews - Jr. Justin Ortega - So. Defensive End Gavin Stansbury - So. Julien Obioha - Fr. Defensive Tackle Spencer Nealy - Sr. Ivan Robinson - So. Cornerback Dustin Harris - Sr. Tremaine Jacobs - Jr. Cornerback De’Vante Harris - fr. Floyd Raven - Sr. Strong Safety Steven Campbell - Sr. Johntel Franklin - Jr. Deshazor Everett - So.
Left Tackle Luke Joeckel - Jr. Germain Ifedi - Fr.
Free Safety Steven Terrell - Sr. Toney Hurd, Jr. - Jr.
Right Tackle Jake Mathews - Jr. Joseph Cheek - Fr.
Linebacker (SAM) Sean Porter - Sr. M. Richardson - Fr.
Left Guard Jarvis Harrison - So. German Ifedi- Fr.
LInebacker (MIKE) J. Stewart - Sr. Justin Bass - So.
Center Patrick Lewis - Sr. Mike Mathews - Fr.
Linebacker (WILL) Steven Jenkins - Jr. Donnie Baggs - So.
Punter Ryan Epperson - Sr. Drew Kaser - So. Holder Ryan Epperson - Sr. Punt Returner Dustin Harris - Sr.
A LL I N by GENE CHIZIK
Kick Returner Trey Williams - Fr.
Tight End Michael Lamothe Sr. Nehemiah Hicks - Jr.
Kicker Taylor Bertolet - Fr. Josh Lambo - Fr.
Auburn fans, celebrate history:
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Thursday, October 25, 2012
Thursday, October 25, 2012
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The Auburn Plainsman
Questioning the enemy The Battalion Sports Editor Chandler Smith answers the key questions about the Aggies coming into Saturday’s game Chandler Smith
What will be the key(s) for A&M’s success this weekend?
Oct. 8th - Nov. 19th
Protecting the football. Turnovers aside, I would argue A&M outplayed LSU for four quarters and likely would have won Saturday at Kyle Field had the Aggies sufficiently protected the football. A&M has the skill-players and offensive line necessary to move the ball effectively and score points against just about anyone. The Aggie defense played outstandingly against a physical LSU running game and gave A&M plenty of opportunities to beat LSU down the stretch. Turnovers almost cost A&M a victory at Ole Miss in a game that came down to the final minutes. Auburn’s record isn’t indicative whatsoever of the talent on its roster, and the Tigers will certainly make the Aggies pay if they cough up the ball. If A&M can limit or eliminate costly turnovers, the Aggies likely leave Jordan-Hare with a victory. sports@thebatt. com
Who are the players to watch on offense? A&M possesses perhaps the most dynamic offensive player in the SEC with redshirt freshman quarterback Johnny Manziel, known more commonly as “Johnny Football.” Manziel has broken the SEC record for total offense twice this season, his most recent being a 576-yard, six-touchdown effort against Louisiana Tech. Manziel ranks fourth nationally in points responsible for (20.6 points per game) and third nationally in total offense (379.9 yards per game). The electric quarterback is also the SEC’s second-best rusher and passer. Manziel is assisted by two future NFL first-round picks — junior offensive tackles Luke Joeckel and Jake Mathews — both of whom held their own against a gaudy LSU defensive line. Redshirt freshman Mike Evans, a 6-foot-5-inch monster possession receiver with 625 yards receiving, and senior wide receiver Ryan Swope are match-up nightmares for any secondary. Junior running back Ben Malena rounds out the Aggie offense, giving A&M a solid running, pass-blocking and special teams playmaker.
Who are the players to watch on defense? Junior Damontre Moore is one of the SEC’s and nation’s finest defensive ends. Moore ranks first nationally in tackles for loss (2.5 per game) and second nationally in sacks (1.42 per game), making him a bona fide terror for any offensive backfield. Senior defensive tackle Spencer Nealy might not have the flashiest statistics, but he remains one of the Aggies’ most valuable defensive players with the push he creates and the run-stopping ability he provides. The linebacker corps is the most well-rounded group with seniors Jonathan Stewart and Sean Porter ranking second and third in tackles on the roster, respectively. The secondary is the weakest link, but don’t tell that to sophomore safety Deshazor Everett. Everett mixes exceptional coverage and run-stopping ability to give the A&M defense a physical presence over the top. Junior defensive back Tony Hurd, who ranks third on the roster in solo tackles (26), provides another valuable piece for the secondary.
What would an away win at Auburn mean for the Aggies? A win at Auburn would further validate A&M’s ability to compete in the nation’s toughest conference. The Tigers, despite their record, are loaded with talent and play in one of the toughest venues in the league. An A&M victory would also give the Aggies valuable momentum as they continue their brutal three-game road stretch against top-15 foes Mississippi State and Alabama. The win would speak volumes about the physical and mental maturity of a team coming off a close loss to the SEC’s reigning champion. There are no easy games in the SEC (except maybe Kentucky), and a downtrodden Auburn is no exception.
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8
The Auburn Plainsman
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Thursday, October 25, 2012
9
The Auburn Plainsman
The Tigers’ top five plays of the season Corey Lemonier’s block of the opposition’s field goal in third quarter (vs. ULM)
A look back at some of the Tigers’ most spectacular moments in the season so far
Quan Bray’s passback to Kiehl Frazier (vs. ULM) Facing an unranked team that defeated ranked Arkansas the week before, then-starting quarterback Kiehl Frazier was making the third start of his career. Up to this point, Frazier hadn’t lived up to his highly sought-after high school talent. The Warhawks played the Tigers close all day long, enough to keep the score even and force a Cody Parkey field goal in overtime. It was the Tigers’ only win thus far. With nearly two minutes remaining in the second half, Frazier handled the snap out of the shotgun and threw a screen pass to receiver Quan Bray. Bray was under pressure, but managed to throw the ball back to a wide-open Frazier, who followed his blockers along the sidelines into the endzone. Although we haven’t seen much trickery from the Tigers this season, and Frazier lost the starting job to Clint Moseley, Scott Loeffler dialed up a great play call for the situation. This play marked Frazier’s first receiving touchdown in his career, showCourtesy of Todd Van Emst ing his speed and versatility as a feasable playmak- Kiehl Frazier runs into the end zone for a touchdown after catching a pass from Quan Bray in the game against ULM. er.
Courtesy of Todd Van Emst
Corey Lemonier blocks a field goal against ULM in the third quarter of the Sept. 15 game.
Although defensive tackle Angelo Blackson’s block deservedly received the most attention, Lemonier’s block was crucial to Auburn’s sole victory. Had it been made, those three points were all ULM needed to get the win and avoid overtime. The block also gave Auburn and its fans much-needed momentum. Auburn had scored a touchdown on two consecutive possessions to break the tie and gain a 28–14 lead, but ULM answered back with a 61-yard drive. The drive stalled on the 14-yard line, and it was there that Lemonier stalled the Warhawks’ comeback. With the turnover and the fans once again out of their seats, Auburn was able to mount a 78-yard drive that — barring the Mike Blakely fumble on the 1-yard line — would have given the Tigers another touchdown and a lead they would have been less likely to relinquish.
Tre Mason’s two-player hurdle (vs. Vanderbilt)
Courtesy of Todd Van Emst
Emory Blake catches Auburn’s first touchdown of the 2012 season against Clemson in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game.
Kiehl Frazier’s 54-yard touchdown pass to Emory Blake (vs. Clemson) After months of waiting and practicing, the Tigers visited the Georgia Dome to open the season.This was the second consecutive game in a row at the Georgia dome following the 2011 Chick-fil-A Bowl victory. Auburn fans didn’t know what to think of two new coordinators and a new starting quarterback, but soon found out that quarterback Kiehl Frazier had
plenty of arm strength. Late in the first quarter, Frazier took the snap and faked it to running back Tre Mason. He eluded one defender and heaved the ball down the field to a wideopen Emory Blake for the 54-yard score. Blake currently holds the Auburn record for the longest play from scrimmage, with a 94-yard touchdown catch in 2010 against the ULM.
Aside from an early fumble in the Chickfil-A Kickoff game, running back Tre Mason has shown consistency all season. His 5-feet-10-inch frame makes him an agile player, but his 198-pound body makes him a viable threat to pound the ball. When Mason hurdled two players, one from each team, in Auburn’s loss to Vanderbilt Saturday, Oct. 20, his athleticism and passion was clearly on display. Although Auburn lost the game, Mason ended with 85 yards rushing and a touchdown. Despite the Tigers’ 1–6 start, Mason runs hard on every play. He currently has 93 carries on the season with four rushing touchdowns. Mason is only a sophomore, but already holds Courtesy of Todd Van Emst two of the top five kickoffreturn-yardage games in Running back Tre Mason hurdles over lineman John Sullen and a Vanderbilt defender Oct. 30. Auburn history.
Courtesy of Todd Van Emst
Running back Onterio McCalebb scores a 4-yard touchdown against LSU Sept. 22.
Onterio McCalebb’s 4-yard rush touchdown (vs. LSU) In a game in which both teams only scored one touchdown apiece, McCalebb’s was the impetus for what should have been one of the best upsets of the year. After the heavily favored LSU Tigers began the game with a safety and a touchdown, Auburn seemed ready to give in to the LSU defense and prove the betting lines right. However, following a fumble by LSU quarterback Zach Mettenberger on his own 26-yard line, Auburn made short work of the short field, and McCalebb punched the ball in to end the first quarter and put Auburn within striking distance. A later field goal would give Auburn the lead, but mistakes in the second half dashed the team’s hopes of an upset.