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By B.J. Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com Senior Editor
SouthernPigskin.com Senior Editor B.J. Bennett takes a quick off-season look at the Auburn Tigers.Follow us on Twitter at Twitter.com/SouthernPigskin. Become a fan of us on Facebook at the SouthernPigskin.com Facebook Page
2009 Recap - The Tigers bolted out to a 5-0 start, a run which included wins over West Virginia and Tennessee. Three straight league losses then slowed down expectations. The end result was a 7-5 regular season, a year perhaps highlighted by a near-upset of eventual national champion Alabama. The Tigers came within a few plays of ending the Crimson Tide's perfect season. Auburn's bowl game against Northwestern was arguably the best of the postseason. The Tigers survived an overtime battle with the Wildcats, prevailing 38-35 by stopping a fake field goal attempt.
Biggest Strength - The offensive line will be one of the best in the SEC. Led by all-conference center Ryan Pugh, the Tigers will boast a front five that has four senior starters. Pugh is the top returning center in the league and 6'8'' tackle Lee Ziemba is one of the best as well. Auburn finished second in the SEC in total offense a year ago compiling over 431 yards per game. The front line was a big reason why. One year after paving the way for an offense that scored over 33 points per game, the Tiger offensive line should be even better.
Biggest Question - You could point to the quarterback position, where senior Chris Todd must be replaced, but this defense must make major strides. The Tigers ranked last in the SEC in scoring defense last season, allowing 27.5 points per game, and is faced with the challenge of replacing their top two stars: end Antonio Coleman and cornerback Walter McFadden. Who steps us when this defense needs a big play? Players like linebacker Craig Stevens and corner Neiko Thorpe will have to adjust to leadership roles.
Top Returnee, Offense - Darvin Adams, WR
Top Returnee, Defense - Craig Stevens, LB
Rising Star - Onterio McCalebb, RB
Newcomer to Watch - Cameron Newton, QB
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