The Auburn Tigers begin fall camp on Monday with several high-profile positions up for grabs. With just six Saturdays left until kickoff at Jordan-Hare, players will have to show Malzhan and company that they have what it takes to lead the Tigers through a tough SEC schedule. Here is the run down of the most-contested positions going into camp:
The Battle for QB
Obviously, the most-watched battle will be the one for quarterback. After a disappointing season of bouncing back and forth at the position, fans hope to see a steady figure leading the offense. The race will come down to the wire, with veteran Sean White and Baylor transfer Jarrett Stidham competing for the top spot. White has the experience and played well last season, until he was plagued by a shoulder injury. However, during spring camp Stidham showed his accuracy from short, middle, and long distances, and impressed with his agility outside of the pocket. Stidham is the favorite going into camp, but all will be determined on the practice field.
Overwhelming O-Line
Auburn’s offensive line boasts overwhelming talent, and the biggest decision going into camp will be where all of the players end up. Austin Golson should be returning at center, and Florida State transfer Wilson Bell has the skill to step in at guard. Five star recruit Calvin Ashley could take the spot at left tackle if he has an impressive camp. The rest of the positions will be determined on the field, but expect coaches to choose a line soon so that they can start building strength and chemistry.
Wide-Open Wide Receivers
The competition at wide receiver is a little more open, with several talented players vying for spots. Nate Craig-Myers, Kyle Davis, Eli Stove, Ryan Davis, Jason Smith, and Will Hastings will all have to prove they have the hands to take the Tigers to the top. It’s a wide open race, but Auburn definitely has the talent to fill the positions.
Dominating Defense
According to SEC Country, Auburn’s defense finished the 2016 season 7th in scoring defense and 28th in total defense nationally, rising 40 spots since 2015. Defensive coordinator Kevin Steele hopes to capitalize on that successful season, but he has some spots to fill after losing players last season. All eyes will be on who can replace Carl Lawson and Montavious Adams on the defensive line. However, Steele is confident that he has the talent to continue the success his defense had last season.
Auburn begins their season at home with a night game against Georgia Southern before heading to Clemson to face the reigning national champions.
