John Stump Thrower Archives

(1) THE RAY KELLER TRIAL
Last Fall, a Scottsboro, Alabama jury awarded a $5,000,000.00 verdict in favor of the plaintiff, Ray Keller (an admitted Alabama booster) and against the NCAA based on Keller’s assertion that he had been defamed by being called a “rogue booster” by the NCAA Committee on Infractions.
Immediately after the trial, the NCAA filed several post-trial motions such as Motion for Judgment Notwithstanding the Verdict, Motion for a New Trial and a Motion for Remit titus, which would be considered by the same trial judge (William Gordon) that heard the second part of the trial after the original Circuit Court Judge (James Graham) who was presiding over the trial suffered a heart attack. Judge Gordon, who is a retired Circuit Court Judge from Montgomery was appointed to complete the trial.

Last week, Judge Gordon granted the NCAA’s Motion which included vacating the entire $5 million jury verdict and granting a new trial.
Judge Gordon did what should have been done. He examined the facts and testimony of the trial with the law of defamation in the state of Alabama and concluded among other opinions in a written opinion and order, that the jury’s verdict was clearly based on “passion and prejudice” of the jury.
Judge Gordon is a well-respected judge in the state of Alabama. He has one of the lowest reversal rates by appellate courts in the state. He has a proven reputation of reading written briefs and trial transcripts in their entirety, and making decisions and rulings based on the law not what the public (fans, alumni, booster, groups, radio talk-show hosts and callers, and Internet bloggers want to occur so they can “pound their chests”).

This is the second sound defeat for those alumni, fans and booster groups of Alabama who have filed lawsuits against NCAA. Several years ago, Circuit Court Judge Steve Wilson of Tuscaloosa vacated a $30 million jury verdict (predicated on “passion and prejudice”). It has withstood several appeals; as it should have.
Since 1995, radio talk show hosts, newspapers and television sports programs have not only reported the filing of lawsuits by Alabama fans, alumni, etc., but have utilized enormous amounts of their time and energy to promote them. In fact, some of these individuals have testified as witnesses in these trials, rather than just promote the plaintiff’s case..
All to no avail.

Perhaps the time is near when certain parties realize that the days of the past are gone, not only on the field but also off the field. Court cases, in the long run, are not won on talk shows or in the newspapers. The primary injustice in the promotion of these lawsuits is the unsupported building up of these cases for its pro-lawsuit listeners, and which, to this date, has resulted only “in making the fall harder” for these same listeners when the court makes its rulings based on the facts and the law not on passion and prejudice. By the way, both Judge Gordon and Judge Wilson are both Alabama undergraduates and law school graduates. Judge Gordon is, additionally, an avid Alabama fan.
Is the NCAA scared because it continues to be sued? I think not. To the contrary, it may be tired and fed up.

II. AUBURN BASKETBALL
Ever wonder how some college basketball teams continue to be great year-after year? Many, of course, deserve to be because they spend the money to support the program, have avid alumni and fans who support the team and decades of tradition in winning basketball.
Some, such as current NCAA National Champion Kansas, can simply “cross the street” to “bump into” (ahem) about 50 of the top 75 high school basketball prospects for the Class of 2009.
This past weekend the AAU sponsored the Jayhawks Invitational Basketball Tournament in Lawrence, Kansas; the home of the University of Kansas. Approximately 40 AAU basketball teams competed in the tournament. AAU teams are composed of high school players from the 9th through 12th grades
One team in the tournament was the Atlanta Celtics (what timing). It had two of the top 5 high school prospects in the country as part of its roster: Derrick Favors, a 6'9" center from South Atlanta, Georgia High School; and Lance Stephenson, a 6'5" wing guard from Lincoln High School of Brooklyn, New York.
Another member of the Atlanta Celtics, who received praise from several observers, was Auburn verbal commitment Andre Malone, a 6'5" wing guard from North Clayton High of Riverdale, Georgia. Said one observer about Malone, “Auburn flat out stole one when they got him to commit early. This 6'5" wing can stroke it from deep, finishes above the rim and is pretty well put together.”
Hopefully, there are more like Malone on the way.

III. SPEED AND DEDICATION IS ON THE WAY
Two of Auburn’s football signees from the Class of 2008, and both from the state of Florida, brought home individual state championships in their respective class state track and field championships. Philip Pierre-Louis, a wide receiver from St. Thomas Aquinas of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Pierre-Louis won the Class 5-A, 200 meter dash with a time of 21.29 seconds, which for the year of 2009 is the fastest time recorded in the nation in high school track.
Meanwhile, Onterrio McCalebb, a running back from Fort Meade, Florida won the 200 meters and finished 2nd in the 100 meters at the state of Florida 1-A state championships in Winter Park, Florida.
On a collateral matter, two other 2008 football signees will be arriving on Auburn’s campus in about 10 days. Derek Winters a wide receiver from Plant High School in Tampa, Florida and linebacker Spencer Pybus from Northview High School in Dothan will begin school on May 19th, which is the 1st mini-semester for the summer.

STATE OF AUBURN HIGH ATHLETICS - AN INTERVIEW WITH CHUCK FURLOW, AHS ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

A few weeks ago, Chuck Furlow, the Athletic Director of Auburn High School announced that at the conclusion of the 2008-2009 academic year, he will retire after 39 years in education. The effective date of his retirement as Athletic Director is officially August 1, 2009.
It appears that the state of Alabama Department of Education’s Deferred Retirement Opportunity Program is a very enticing way to retire; and, in Coach Furlow’s case, who is in good health, the opportunity to exercise his retirement program, at this time, is difficult to turn down.
About two weeks ago, “The Auburn Villager” met with Coach Furlow to discuss his future retirement, the current status of the AHS Athletic Department and his plans and goals for the Department until his retirement.

Furlow feels that the overall program is in good shape and very competitive in every sport. For example, this spring alone, AHS teams have and are performing well. The baseball team, despite losing in the first round of the playoffs, was ranked in the top 10 in Class 6-A most of the season. Both girls and boys golf units are ranked in the top 5 of the state, and the tennis teams (girls and boys) are performing well. Likewise, both boys’ and girls’ soccer teams are very competitive.

For Fall, 2008, Furlow is confident that the football team will be very competitive in Region 3, Class 6-A. “We are going to miss some very good skill people, particularly in the secondary from the 2007 team, but Coach (Tim) Carter and his staff will have a team with a lot of potential.”
“Volleyball will continue to be a strong point in AHS athletics” Furlow added. As has been the case over the years, the Tigers’ boys and girls basketball programs will remain strong. (For the 2008-09 season, AHS will be playing in an Area that consists of Wetumpka, Stanhope Elmore and Benjamin Russell).
“I have always believed in running a department that demonstrates class, integrity and sportsmanship. All I have asked all of our coaches is to coach and teach the same; and they have,” said Furlow. “I have never believed that a team in any sport should win at any cost. At AHS, we will never sacrifice any other sport for the sole reason of success of another sport.”

These positions are evident under Furlow’s guidance, Auburn High probably has the best overall athletic program involving the number of sports and each of their successes in the east central Alabama area; and rivals those programs located in south Jefferson/north Shelby counties (Birmingham) and the Huntsville area.
“The Athletic Program at Auburn High has always had the maximum support from Dr. (Terry) Jenkins, his staff, the high school administration and fans. This is the reason why the overall program has had the success that it has had,” said Furlow.
Despite his announcement of a pending retirement, one should not expect Chuck Furlow to be a “lame duck” Athletic Director. It is totally against his nature.
“I still have several goals and plans between now and retirement,” insisted Furlow.
“I want to continue to upgrade the facilities at Duck Samford Stadium, including the fieldhouse and the visitors’ restrooms, concession stands and press box. This has become more difficult to achieve because of the recent tax referendum being defeated by the voters. Next year the budget will be tight, so we will attempt to locate other sources of revenue,” stated Furlow.
“The ACS Capital Campaign for Athletic Facilities, which began in October of 2005 is still in existence, and we hope to generate more interest in it,” said Furlow.

When the retirement date becomes much closer in proximity, what does Furlow want to see accomplished? “I want to insure a smooth transition for the next Athletic Director, just as I received from Coach Wayne Murphy when I succeeded him.” “When I became Athletic Director, the program was in good shape. I want to make sure that it is the case when I retire.”
One can expect Chuck Furlow to accomplish these final plans and meet these final goals. One can be assured more that when Furlow does retire, it will not be the last time we will hear from him.

In January of this year, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) passed and implemented a new football recruiting rules barring a head coach from visiting high schools during the spring of each year. In the past, this was a time when college head coaches would supposedly just meet with prep coaches and administrators in order to evaluate potential recruits.
The question begs: Why did the new rules become so necessary at this point time after decades of high school football recruiting?
Perhaps, and this is just conjecture, because a number of college head coaches were abusing the past rules of no contact with a particular high school recruit during the spring. Instead, perhaps these head coaches were doing more than just contacting the prep coaches to review tapes of the prospect and the high school administrators, to review academics and character, but were, in fact, making a direct, person-to-person contact with the prospect such as private workouts, etc.; all in violation of the no-contact mandate of the NCAA rules, regulations and by-laws.
The most vocal of all of the college head coaches in opposition to these new rules and restrictions is current Alabama head coach, Nick Saban. In fact, the new rules and restrictions have been called by some of the “Saban rules.”

A week ago today, Saban, in a conference call with reporters (“Stump” was not included among those reporters), blasted the new rule and restrictions. Specifically he stated, “I think it’s ridiculous that we’re doing what we’re doing.” Claiming that the new rules and restrictions do not leave head coaches with enough time to do their work, Saban continued by saying “When you’re talking about developing relationships and knowing players and meeting guidance counselors and talking to principals and all those kind of things, I think we’ve put ourselves at a tremendous disadvantage in terms of evaluation.”
An initial thought about this statement is the following: Are not all members of the NCAA subject to the same new rules and restrictions that Saban and Alabama’s program are subject to and must follow? Where is the disadvantage particular school?

In terms of “evaluation” of a prospect, with the ability to talk to and meet with high school guidance counselors, principals, coaches, parents, guardians and other individuals between the spring of each year until the signing date that arrives every February, what difference does the new “spring” restrictions make to only Saban and his staff?
In fact, prior to Saban's arrival to Alabama in January of 2007, Southeastern Conference coaches once opposed this “new” rule which had been considered by the NCAA several times prior to January of 2008. But at the Spring, 2007 SEC meeting, some 3 months after Saban’s arrival to Tuscaloosa, the SEC coaches change positions and endorsed the rule changes. Quoting Vanderbilt head coach Bobby Johnson, “the old system is a hard rule to enforce, and I think (the new rule is) the only way to do it.” It is amazing how long time opinions and oppositions can change in just 3 months.
When someone is on the defensive, many times the best strategy is to go on the offensive.

In this particular matter as to the necessity of these new rules and regulations, no one has taken the offensive more than Saban. Self-proclaimed as a “tireless” recruiter, Saban should not be affected by these new rules and restrictions. In fact, all of the other head coaches of NCAA schools are having to play with and by the same rules.
Frankly, I have never heard of NCAA recruiting rule or rules being changed simply because some head coaches are too lazy to recruit in the spring. The NCAA only changes rules out of necessity not out of convenience.

Further, simply because the NCAA has implemented new rules and regulations pertaining to college head coaches’ contacts with high school prospects, does not mean the NCAA Enforcement Division and the Committee on Infractions are waiving or releasing any school from rules violations determinations and finding and appropriate sanctions. The NCAA’s four-year statute of limitations has yet to expire for any school that may have violated the “old” rules and regulations.

April 2008 - One

S.O.S.

(A) Has it really been almost 20 years?

It is somewhat hard to believe that it has been almost 20 years since the first time the Iron Bowl was played in Auburn (December 2, 1989). Including the game played in Auburn on 12/2/89, and since that time, Auburn and Alabama have played each other in either Auburn or Tuscaloosa 13 times. Of those meetings, the Tigers have won 11 of those 13 games. Auburn ’s wins include the following games:

1989 - Auburn 30, Alabama 20 - at Auburn ;

1993 - Auburn 22, Alabama 14 - at Auburn ;

1995 - Auburn 31, Alabama 27 - at Auburn ;

1997 - Auburn 18, Alabama 17 - at Auburn ;

2000 - Auburn 9, Alabama 0 - at Tuscaloosa ;

2002 - Auburn 17, Alabama 7 - at Tuscaloosa ;

2003 - Auburn 28, Alabama 23 - at Auburn ;

2004 - Auburn 21, Alabama 13 - at Tuscaloosa ;

2005 - Auburn 28, Alabama 18 - at Auburn

2006 - Auburn 22, Alabama 15 - at Tuscaloosa ; and

2007 - Auburn 17, Alabama 10 - at Auburn .

“Neutral” Legion Field in Birmingham was the site for the 1990, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1996 and 1998 Iron Bowls; all Alabama victories.

I never thought, from an Auburn standpoint, that Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa would be more “neutral’ than Legion Field in Birmingham . But then, again, one should not be surprised.

(B) Early A.U. Football Commitments:

Even though the February, 2009 football signing date is just under 10 months, Auburn’s football staff is already obtaining verbal non-binding commitments from some solid prospects; and all are from the state of Alabama.

They include the following:

Terrance Coleman - A 6'1", 250 pound defensive tackle from Williamson High School of Mobile. He selected Auburn over Alabama , LSU, Ole Miss and Tennessee .

Jamontay Pilson - A 6'3", 265 pound defensive end, who runs a 4.9 forty yard dash. He is from Greenville High School .

Raymond Cotton - A 6'4", 200 pound quarterback athlete, who runs a 4.6 forty, and will play this fall for Faith Academy of Mobile.

Eltoro Freeman - A re-commitment who originally signed with Auburn in 2007. Freeman is presently attending Gulf Coast Mississippi Junior College . He is a 5'11", 210 pound, 4.5 forty linebacker originally from Benjamin Russell High in Alexander City . He hopes to be with the Tigers this December.

While it is very early in the Auburn football recruiting process in evaluating high school, prep school and junior college for the 2009 Signing Period, times have changed, and verbal, non-binding commitments are coming in much earlier.

The Tigers’ coaching staff is working hard in its normal recruiting areas such as Alabama , Georgia , Mississippi , Tennessee , Louisiana and South Carolina . In fact, Auburn ’s first four commitments for 2009 are from the state of Alabama .

This year, however, and particularly at this time, is somewhat different in the direction of Auburn ’s recruiting.

As a credit to the type of football program Coach Tommy Tuberville and his “entire” staff have developed and maintained since the beginning of 1999, Auburn is being sought out by outstanding high school and junior college prospects from all parts of the nation, and Auburn is ready to oblige them.

The staff has received a number of unofficial visits from recruits outside of Auburn ’s normal geographical area, and in fact, the Tigers have made scholarship offers to a number of these prospects. They include, though not inclusive, the following, and are in no particular order:

David Aku, a 5'10", 180 pound running back from Albert High School of Midwest City, Oklahoma. Aku runs a 4.5 forty yard dash who is also considering FSU, Missouri , Oklahoma , Oklahoma State, Tennessee and Texas ;

Cierre Wood, a 6'0", 200 pound running back from Santa Clara High School of Oxnard, California, who runs a 4.5 forty is looking at A.U., and A.U. has offered. He is also looking at USC, Florida State , Notre Dame, California , Oregon and UCLA;

Tate Forcier, a 6'1", 190 pound, 4.65 forty quarterback from Scripps Ranch High School of San Diego, California, is looking at Auburn as well as considering UCLA, Michigan, LSU, Penn State, Oregon and Virginia Tech;

Sam Simpson, a 6'5", 260 pound center from Clay High School of Lexington, Kentucky, and who also is considering Kentucky , Michigan , Ohio State , West Virginia and Maryland ;

Brandon Wegher, a 5'11", 190 pound running back from Heelan Catholic High of Sioux City, Iowa, who runs a 4.45 forty. He is also looking at Iowa , Illinois , Michigan , Iowa State and Nebraska ;

Manti Téo, a 6'2", 225 pound linebacker/running back from The Punahou School of Honolulu, Hawaii. Téo runs a 4.5 forty, and is also looking at Florida , Tennessee , LSU, USC, Notre Dame, BYU, Colorado , Oregon and Stanford;

Alanzi Langstaff, a 6'4", 305 pound defensive tackle from Las Vegas High, Nevada . Langstaff is also considering USC, UNLV, Washington , Nebraska , UCLA and California ;

Dorian Bell, a 6'1", 205 pound, 4.5 linebacker from Gateway High School in Monroeville, Pennsylvania. Bell is also looking at Penn State , Pittsburgh , Ohio State, Alabama , Notre Dame, West Virginia and Virginia Tech;

Eric Shrive, a tall 6'7" offensive lineman, who weights 280 pounds. He is from West High in Scranton , Pennsylvania . Shrive is also considering Penn State, Syracuse, West Virginia, Maryland, Boston College and Notre Dame; and

Montee Ball, a 5'11", 200 pound running back from Timberland High School of Wentzville, Missouri. Ball runs a 4.45 forty, and is also considering Missouri , Nebraska , Iowa State , Iowa and Illinois .

Perhaps the most interesting state targeted by the Auburn staff is Texas . There are several high school prospects that the Tigers are after. They include:

Ryan Mossakowski, a 6'5", 200 pound quarterback, who runs a 4.7 forty. Ryan is also considering Texas A&M, Arizona , Nebraska , Notre Dame and Kansas . He attends Centennial High School of Frisco, Texas;

Drew Allen, whose grandfather attended Auburn , is from San Antonio , Texas and plays at Alamo Heights High. He is also considering Texas A&M, Purdue , Iowa and Oklahoma State . He is in 6'5", 205 pound quarterback;

Rex Burkhead, a 5'10", 185 pound, 4.5 forty running back/safety from Plano , Texas High School. He is also looking at Alabama , LSU, Texas Tech, Kansas and Arizona ;

Stavion Lowe, an offensive lineman from Brownwood Texas High School . He is 6'5" and weighs 195 pounds. He was present for A-Day, and is also looking at Arkansas , Kansas and Texas A&M;

Brandon Mahoney, a 6'2", 210 pound linebacker, who runs a 4.55 forty, and is from Fossil Ridge High School of Keller, Texas. He is also considering Texas Tech, Houston , Texas A&M and Arkansas ;

Justin Isadore, a 5'11" 200 pound, 4.6 forty linebacker from Ozen High School of Beaumont, Texas, and is also considering Baylor , Kansas , TCU and Kansas State ; and

Josh Hunt, a 5'9", 185 pound running back with 4.5 speed from Lancaster , Texas High School. He is also looking at Kansas , Texas Tech, Arkansas and TCU.

MARCH 2008

WHAT ABOUT AUBURN MEN'S BASKETBALL FOR 2008-2009

Last Thursday, March 13, 2008, I had just had a birthday dinner with my two daughters, Mary Louise and Elizabeth. On that day, I was celebrating (I think) my 55 years on this earth, and, for many reasons, thankful that I remained present in body and soul.

Earlier that day, I had listened to Auburn lose to Vanderbilt (93-82) in the 1st round of the SEC Men's Basketball Tournament, to finish the 2007-08 season with a 14-16 record. I listened to an Auburn team, again, take a beating underneath the boards and simply "wear itself down." I did not listen to a team give-up and lose its effort to try to win the game. I listened to a team that had begun the season with little depth and lack of height, but, as in most of its games, battle to the bitter end. Another "moral victory."

    But, frankly, when it comes to Auburn basketball, moral victories need to cease and be replaced by 20 win seasons and post-season trips.

    Later that birthday evening, I dreamed of being able to watch an Auburn team with a 7'11" player; two 6'9" players; three 6'8" players; a 6'6" player; and a 6'5" player (a total of 8 players 6'5" or taller.).

    Initially, I thought that this scenario was a dream. But then, after some more thought, could it really happen?

What does the 2008-09 basketball season project for Head Jeff Lebo, his staff and the players? Perhaps the first of several 20-win seasons and post-season appearances are in order. Believe me, simply because I just turned 55, I have not completely misplaced a majority of my common sense abilities to think and reason.

On paper, Lebo and his staff return eight players that will be either juniors or seniors. Add to that number two junior college transfers, and, as an result, there will be ten upperclassmen available.

These players include seniors and returning starters Quantez Robertson (guard), Rasheem Barrett (guard) and forward Korvotney Barber (may be classified a junior if the NCAA grants him a medical hardship). Additionally, Archie Miaway, a senior shooting guard, may be available if his academics are in order. Further, there will be four juniors available. They include Josh Dollard, Lucas Hargrove, Dwayne Reed and Matt Heramb; all with playing experience as well as junior college signees Tay Waller and Johnnie Lett.

Supplementing these veterans will be medical redshirt freshman, 7'11" Boubecar Sylla, and two true freshmen signees, point guard Frankie Sullivan and weak forward Kenny Gabriel.

    Let's look at what is "black and white" for the 2008-09 season.

    There will be four juniors or seniors who stand 6'8" or better; Barber at 6'8", Dollard at 6'8"; Heramb at 6'9"; and Lett at 6'10" (240 pounds).

    There be three guards with starting experience: Robertson at 6'4"; Barrett at 6'5"; and Reed at point guard and 6'2".

    Throw in Lucas Hargrove (6'6"), who was probably the most improved player on this year's team and Sylla, and depth should not be a problem for 2008-09.

Auburn's recruiting class for 2008 has been ranked by some recruiting services as among the top 20 classes in the nation. Sullivan, a point guard, recently led his high school team (R.C. Hatch of Uniontown, Alabama) to a 4th consecutive state championship by scoring 51 points in the championship game. Waller is considered the #1 shooting guard in the nation's junior college ranks, while Lett will add strong rebounding strength in the middle. Gabriel, who may need to become a little stronger for SEC play, averaged over 25 points per game his senior year in high school.

The past four years have been very trying for the team, Coach Lebo and his staff and the fans (and there are out there many Auburn basketball fans). Perhaps between now and the start of the season in November, 2008, the world will become perfect for Auburn men's basketball and all of the above-mentioned players will be available and ready. This has not been the norm for various reasons, for the Tigers during the past four seasons.

AUBURN MEN'S BASKETBALL: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

Insofar as new faces, who are the players that Auburn will have for the 2008-09 season. During the early signing period of November, 2007, the Tigers signed four players who should partially address some of A.U.¢s needs.

    This early class includes Frankie Sullivan of R.C. Hatch High School of Uniontown, Alabama. The 6'2" point guard can score and is a proven winner in high school, having led Hatch to four straight 2-A Alabama state championships. Wing guard signee Tay Waller, a high school teammate of Korvotney Barber at Manchester, Georgia High School, comes from Okaloosa Walton Junior College of Niceville, Florida. He is considered by many to have been the best junior college shooting guard in the nation. Waller averaged 19.5 points per game this past season. His teammate, Johnnie Lett, a 6'10", 240 pound center also signed with the Tigers. Originally from Mobile, Lett averaged 6 points and 7 rebounds per game for Okaloosa-Walton. The final early period signee is Kenny Gabriel, a smooth 6'7" forward from United Faith High School of Charlotte, North Carolina. For a 6'7" player, he handles the ball well, and has a quick first-step to the basket. This past year he average 21.3 points and 12 rebounds per game. Coach Jeff Lebo has one scholarship remaining for the late signing period in April. It is not certain if he will use it in April, but there are a few prospects that he and staff are still considering for the April signing period. They include, David Diakite, a 6'5" guard/forward from National Christian Academy of Fort Washington, Maryland; Jordan Henriquez, a 6'11" center prospect from Port Chester, New York, High School; Blaise Ffrench, a 6'1" point guard from Holy Cross High School of Flushing, New York; and Dustin Steele, a 6'3" wing guard from the Glenwood School of Phenix City, Alabama.

    The high number of very good prospects for Auburn¢s class of 2009 may be the primary reason that Coach Lebo will hesitate in using his last available scholarship in April for the 2008 class.

    Presently, Auburn has two non-binding verbal commitments from two of the top ten players from the state of Georgia. Robert Chubb, a 6'10" center from McIntosh High School of Peachtree City, Georgia, and Andre Malone, a 6'4" shooting guard from North Clayton High School of College Park, Georgia. Chubb completed the 2007-08 season averaging nine points, seven rebounds and five blocks per game. Malone averaged twenty-two points and eight rebounds this past year.

    It appears that Coach Lebo and his staff are just beginning. The following are some prospects that are considering Auburn for its class of 2009, in no particular order:

Derrick Favors a 6'9", 200 pound center from South Atlanta High School of Atlanta, Georgia. Generally considered one of the top 10 players in the nation regardless of position. He is also considering Florida State, North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Clemson and North Carolina State;

Taariq Muhammed - a 6'2", 190 pound point guard from Norcross, Georgia High School. He is also looking at Miami (Fla.) and South Carolina;

Richard Howell - a 6'7", 215 pound power forward from Wheeler High School of Marietta, Georgia, and his teammate Ari Stewart, a 6'7", 190 pound small forward. Howell is also considering Alabama, Georgia, Florida, FSU, North Carolina, Georgia Tech, Michigan State, and Virginia Tech while Stewart is also eyeing Florida, Georgia Tech, North Carolina, Wake Forest and Xavier;

Mfon Udofia - a 6'2", 180 pound guard from Miller Grove High School of Lithonia, Georgia. He is also considering Alabama, Florida State, Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech and Miami (Fla.);

Bawa Maniru - a 6'9", 200 center from Madison, Alabama Academy. He is also looking at Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, South Alabama, Texas A&M, Tulane and UAB;

Omari Lawrence - a 6'3", 175 pound shooting guard from St. Raymond High School for Boys of the Bronx, New York, who is also considering Arizona, Georgetown, Memphis, St. John¢s, Xavier and West Virginia;

Tevin Baskin - a 6'6", 185 pound small forward from Trinity Catholic High School of Stamford, Connecticut. He is also considering Arizona, Louisville, Pittsburgh, Xavier and Rutgers.

Terrance Shannon - a 6'7" 190 power forward from Mary Persons High School in Forsyth, Georgia. He is also considering Georgia, Florida State, Tennessee and Clemson; and

Torrin Walker - a 6'9", 221 pound center from Northside High School of Columbus, Georgia, who is also looking at Alabama, Clemson, FSU, Georgia, Tulane and Texas.

2/17/08

(A) IS THE NCAA REALLY SCARED TO INVESTIGATE?
On Wednesday, February 13, 2008, Indiana University received a written list of five (5) allegations of potential NCAA violations regarding improper telephone calls made by Kelvin Sampson, its head basketball coach. As you know, Indiana is considered among the top 10, if not the top 5, major college basketball programs in the nation. It has not been on NCAA probation since 1960. My question to some of the readers to this Web Page is this: Prior to last Wednesday, 2/13/08, how many of you had even heard that the NCAA Enforcement Division was investigating Indiana, for any reason?
One might want to keep this in mind as the next few weeks go by.

(B) WHO IS REALLY SCARED: THE SCHOOLS OR THE NCAA?
When one hears, listens to and watches the state of Alabama media, sports writers and radio talk show hosts continue to state that the NCAA is too scared to investigate any member school, or is under-staffed to investigate, one wonders why is this so important to them? Is this part of a pro-active cover-up for events that are about to occur? Many times, guilty parties will take the offensive from a media standpoint to cover up the obvious. They believe that perception is the ultimate reality. When the dust settles, however, the fact will prevail. In most cases, this just takes time. Frankly, I am glad that the tactics previously stated still exist. Their arrogance, denial and stupidity, which still exist, after being severely sanctioned two (2) times, can only mean more problems for them in the future.

(C) DEVIN AROMASHODU:
After being pressed into the playing rotation by the Indianapolis Colts last year because of injuries to other wide receivers, look for former Auburn wide receiver Devin Aromashodu to receive a great deal of attention during the off-season from the Colt’s coaching staff.

(D) KENNY IRONS:
Word is that Kenny Irons’ rehab from his early 2007 exhibition game knee injury is progressing very well. While he will be limited in off-season practices, he is expected to be 100% healthy by the start of the 2008 fall practice/training camp for the Cincinnati Bengals.

(E) ZACH CLAYTON:
It is interesting to see that going into Spring Practice defensive lineman Zach Clayton is listed as #1 on the depth chart at his position. After following his football and track and field career at Opelika, Alabama High School, as well as his first two (2) years at Auburn, there is not a harder worker in the weight room and off-season conditioning program. Also, do not be surprised if James Swinton, in his last year at WR for the Tigers, has an excellent year. James is a fine person, and was raised by a great family. I sincerely hope that he does well. Remember, at a minimum, he solicited and encouraged Rod Jones to walk-on at Auburn. They remain close friends to this day.

(F) AUBURN/ALABAMA BASKETBALL GAME/JUNIOR DAY:
I strongly encourage you and your family to attend this Sunday’s (Feb. 24) A.U. Basketball game against Alabama scheduled for a 1:00 p.m. CST, tip-off. Be there; not only to cheer for the basketball team, but to show your support for all Auburn athletics.. It is Junior Day this weekend on the Plains, and there will be a large number of junior class football, basketball and baseball recruits and their parents present. After the basketball game, slip on over to Plainsman Park and watch the Tigers play East Tennessee State University in baseball. What else are you doing on a February Sunday afternoon; unless, of course, you forgot someone on Valentine’s Day, and you are still paying for it!

(G) ALABAMA BOOSTERS: “THE CLEAN-HANDS” DOCTRINE:
Word is that immediately after, in fact within the hour, Alabama Head Coach Nick Saban had his press conference on Wednesday, February 6, 2008 to discuss Alabama’s recruiting, he met with 400-500 UAT boosters in a conference room on the campus.. Wonder what they were shown, and what they talked about?

(H)    EDITORIAL:
The following is my editorial from last Thursday’s (February 14th) Edition of “The Auburn Villager.” I hope that you enjoy it:
S.O.S.
A REVIEW OF 2008 FOOTBALL RECRUITING:
        College football recruiting for the year of 2008 has, in essence, been completed. The National Signing Date began in the A.M. of Wednesday, February 6, 2008, and any unsigned prospect has until April 1, 2008 to sign a letter of intent with the college of his choice.
        Auburn received signatures from 29 high school, prep school and junior college players, and unless something unusual occurs, the Tigers have signed their Class for 2008; a class some “pay me for a subscription recruiting services” rank as high as #19 of 117 colleges and universities in the country.
        My position has already been reviewed and discussed regarding the significance of recruiting rankings. I really have not and do not place much faith in them. What is the difference between them and pre-season football polls. The question is did Auburn, for this year’s class, meet its needs for position requirements. More times than not; yes it did.
        Going into this year’s recruiting season, the A.U. staff was definitely attempting to restock the defensive line and the defensive secondary areas. This the Tigers did by signing two interior defensive linemen (Jomarcus Savage and Freddie Smooth) and four defensive ends (Raven Gray, Cameron Henderson, Derrick Lykes and Andre Wadley). Additionally, the Tigers signed six defensive backs (T’Sharvan Bell, Drew Cole, Marcus Jemison, Neik Lipscomb, D’Antoine Hood and Christian Thompson).

ALABAMA RECRUITING AND NICK SABAN:
In following football recruiting over the years (decades) in the state of Alabama, I have always been amazed by the state of Alabama’s print media promotions (year long) of the University of Alabama’s football ( and basketball) recruiting efforts. These efforts would include front page articles of Alabama commitments, ranking prospects from #1 to #12 only to change the rankings positively in favor of Alabama when a certain prospect commits to the Tide and to now awarding mythical national championships based on a recruiting class.
The Alabama “nation” is euphoric over Head Coach Nick Saban’s first full recruiting class at “The Strip.” I remember the 1960's 1970's and early 1980's when Alabama fans would only talk about national championship and SEC championships that came solely from playing on the field of competition. My, have times changed!
Coach Saban has always been an excellent recruiter. In fact, that is his forté. I have never , however, been impressed with his “on the field coaching.” Saban philosophy in winning games, is by simply having the better talent. Thus he recruits; and the end justifies the means.
An example of the basis for this opinion would be the examination and reviewing of his short stint as the Miami Dolphins head coach. At Miami, Saban’s strength, recruiting, was practically eliminated by the NFL’s mandated draft system. Further, trading for players in the NFL is very expensive and controlling. Therefore, Saban had to depend and to rely on his coaching ability on the sidelines and his ability to work with his assistants. The results were not good!
The record shows that while he has a national championship from his tenure at LSU, his LSU team was fortunate to even participate in the BCS national championship game. Further, having “superior talent” has not always been successful for Saban. He is 2-4 against Tommy Tuberville. He, with superior talent, has suffered large margin losses to other teams in his career (e.g. Auburn 31-6 in 2002). And no one can tell me that last November, Louisiana-Monroe had more talent than Alabama.
With that said, I have never seen the likes of the promotion of Alabama’s recruiting for 2008 by the state of Alabama printed media, video media, radio talk shows and recruiting services, and the concentrated downgrading of Auburn’s recruiting efforts, since the January 3, 2007 hiring of Nick Saban. Many of the above could possible meet the minimum requirements of being a “Booster” as defined by the NCAA.
Despite this situation, in my opinion, Auburn recruited well. The proverbial statement of “let’s check the contributions of this class four years from now” has never been more soothsaying.
Sometimes, too many “superstars” will not make a great team. They still have to be coached; and not just on the field.

(I) LAST POST:
This is my last post of the football season on the WAUD web site. I want to sincerely thank a vast majority of you for reading my information, thoughts and opinions.
My only requests for each of you in the future are to respect each Auburn person you talked to; work together as Auburn; and put your ego aside when trying to analyze Auburn when certain situations arise. I love Auburn; and outside of my family, nothing makes me want to fight harder than when someone or something wants to hurt Auburn particularly by cheating to do it; and then lying about it. It is that simple; and I am not ashamed to say! Alabama will do whatever it takes to win; within and/or outside the rules and the code of ethics.
As long as the true facts are reported (which they will), Auburn will be okay.
“War Eagle!”; and “Thank you!”
John Thrower
Class of 1975

I will continue to write for “The Auburn Villager”. This includes editorials and feature articles on all Auburn sports. As stated previously, “The Auburn Villager” is a weekly newspaper, published in Auburn, and mailed to its subscribers every Wednesday. The address, telephone and “fax” numbers and subscription rates are listed below:

The Auburn Villager
Post Office Box 1633
Auburn, Alabama 36831-1633

Telephone #: (334)501-0600
Facsimile #: (334)821-9981

Subscription Rates:

In Lee County, Alabama - $9.00 per year

In Alabama but
Out-of-Lee County, Alabama - $18.00 per year; and

Out-of-the State of Alabama - $27.00 per year.

S.O.S.
Has the NCAA become “too scared”?

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is one of the governing athletic administrative entities designed to organize and promote intercollegiate sports in the United States and its territories. Membership is voluntary and all of its member institutions draft and adopt the NCAA’s rules, regulations and by-laws and, more importantly, promise to abide by them. This includes governing the recruitment of high school, prep school and junior college prospects for all intercollegiate sports, male and female.
When a member institution violates the NCAA’s rules, regulations and by-laws regarding recruiting, the NCAA is empowered by all of its member institutions to investigate, to enforce and, if necessary, sanction the guilty member.

History has proven that the NCAA will perform its duty in this regard, and there is no reason to conclude that it will not continue to do so.
Currently, there seems to be an attitude and a feeling that the NCAA is now afraid to investigate and sanction a member institution for recruiting violations. This attitude and feeling is apparently based on a number of self-conceived opinions that are based on facts that do not exist. Frankly, these individuals feel that the NCAA’s Enforcement Division and Committee on Infractions are disorganized, lack credibility and are just plain scared of certain members and their power.
These individuals believe that because the NCAA has been sued by some of its alumni and boosters that the NCAA will not conduct any future investigations of allegations of violations by that member.
These same individuals believe that by utilizing the state media and radio sports talk shows to criticize the essence of the NCAA, that it will not investigate allegations of illegal recruiting.
Likewise, it is believed by this same group that the NCAA will never sanction a member institution by ordering the “death penalty” against member’s particular athletic program.
Further, it is believed that the possible threat of future lawsuits will cause concern among the staff of the NCAA’s Enforcement Division, and deter the NCAA from exercising any of its investigative and enforcement powers.

Each of these beliefs are just that: beliefs; accompanied by hope and conjecture. They are fictitious in nature.
The following are some facts that can be “taken to the bank.”
The NCAA and its Enforcement Division and Committee on Infractions are still functioning and conducting their mandated duties.
The NCAA does not advertise or give notice of who it is investigating until after most of the investigation is completed. In other words it does not issue a press release that states it is investigating “John Doe” member, and that this week it will be conducting its inquiries in Atlanta, Anniston or Eufaula. The reasons for not issuing such a press release are obvious.
The NCAA never forgets that it has an obligation to all of its members to enforce violations of its rules, regulations and by-laws.

The so-called “death penalty” sanctions are still contained within the NCAA’s By-laws and can be properly utilized, if the evidence supports it..
Outside of statute of limitations restrictions, there is no timetable for an investigation to be completed. More times than not, while the NCAA is investigating one particular allegation, its enforcement staff will uncover or discover other allegations and investigate those also.

The NCAA Enforcement staff has a very burdensome and difficult task in examining possible recruiting violations. It does not, however, back-down from this responsibility to its members. No single member is bigger than the entire membership of the NCAA.
For a member institution to believe that the NCAA has become too scared or too weak to investigate possible recruiting violations could be disastrous to that particular school; particularly if it is not the first-time for that member to be under the NCAA’s microscope.
One would be wise to not try to out-guess the NCAA when the NCAA is simply following what it members have asked it to do.

1.30.08

PREAMBLE:    REMEMBER!

   “There ain’t nothing to it, because the NCAA is scared of us!”

(A)   ERIC RAMSEY - IN THE LONG RUN WHO GOT HURT THE MOST?

Recently, I have heard discussions and talk about the Eric Ramsey matter that was in the news from September of 1991 to until August of 1993 when, in August of ‘93, the NCAA Committee on Infractions sanctioned Auburn for providing extra benefits to a current player on the roster. It eventually cost Auburn a chance at the National Championship in 1993, and basically prevented the nation from observing on television an Auburn football team go undefeated for the 1993 season.

The discussion of the Ramsey matter can and will be made at another time, but it is commonly known who was behind the whole set-up; particularly since a particular school at that time, had a new athletic director and a new head football coach. It was the type of set-up that had been used by this particular school to hurt Auburn in the eyes of the NCAA many times before. Again, these details can and will be reviewed at a later date.

But what this other school did not realize in 1990, 1991 and 1992, was that there was a number of Auburn graduates who were tired of these set-ups and, for the first time were ready with factual evidence of improprieties (not a set-up) by this particular school and were also ready to fight back. These A.U. graduates had grown-up in the 1960's, attended Auburn in the 1970's and had watched Auburn’s football team have to fight and scrap against this other school, in every which way possible, for every one of its victories in the football series that was played every year on a “neutral” field. This group of Auburn graduates had listened for years to degrading comments about its school and football program from supporters of this other school, with many of this supporter never attending this school or nor could spell the name of the city where this other school was located.

Coach Pat Dye came and he and his staff did a tremendous job in taking over on the football field. But continuing with the Ramsey matter, this other school was still up to its deceiving tactics to bring Auburn down.

This group of Auburn graduates (though few in number) had enough and were ready to fight back, and they did.

It began with Gene Jelks, and since then this other school has not been the same. The only championships they talk about now are mythical recruiting championships. Desperate people do Desperate things. Therefore, for your consideration, and think about it, in the long run, Eric Ramsey and his supporters’ tactics benefited Auburn far more than hurt it. Ramsey and his co-horts were the last straw. Many times good things evolve from initial bad situations. (Think about this year’s recruiting season).

Have you noticed, that since 1992, Auburn’s football program has not received a Preliminary Letter of Inquiry from the NCAA?

Thank you, the younger Auburn alumni, fans and supporters for continuing the fight. Remember, in the minds of that other school, “it has never been just a game!” And whether or not that is the correct way to look at a football series, it is still a fact; that is the way it has been and is.

(B)   WIDE RECEIVER COACHING DUTIES CHANGED

With the spread offense being under the direction of new Auburn offensive coordinator Tony Franklin, there has occurred one change of duties involving some assistant offensive coaches. Steve Ensminger will now coach the tight ends and inside wide receivers and wide receivers coach Greg Knox will coach the outside wide receivers. Franklin states that “the inside guys are different from the outside guys.” Inside guys have to run quicker routes and do more blocking on linebackers like tight ends than outside guys.

(C)   This is a random depth chart of Auburn football for Spring Practice:

QUARTERBACKS

   Kodi Burns - Soph.
   Neil Caudle - Soph.
   Chris Todd - Jr.
   Deron Furr - Fresh.

RUNNING BACKS

   Brad Lester - Sr.
   Ben Tate - Jr.
   Triston Davis - Sr.
   Mario Fannin - Soph.
   Jeremy Anderson - Soph - Walk-on

FULLBACKS

   John Douglas - R. Fresh.
   Jason King - Soph. - Walk-on
   Jeffrey Tarver - Soph. - Walk-on

TIGHT ENDS

   Gabe McKenzie - Jr.
   Tommy Trott - Jr.
   Bailey Woods - R. Fresh.
   Ryan Burse - Jr. - Walk-on

WIDE RECEIVERS

   Rodgerigus Smith - Sr.
   Robert Dunn - Sr.
   James Swinton - Sr.
   Montez Billings - Jr.
   Tim Hawthorne - Soph.
   Chris Slaughter - Soph.
   Terrell Zachery - Soph.
   Quindarius Carr - R. Fresh.
   John Cubelic - Soph. - Walk-on
   Zach Shaw - R. Fresh - Walk-on
   Brian Anyadike - Jr. - Walk-on

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

   Jason Bosley - Sr.
   Tyronne Green - Sr.
   Ryan Pugh - Soph.
   Lee Ziemba - Soph.
   Chaz Ramsey - Soph.
   Andrew McCain - Jr.
   Byron Isom - Soph.
   Mike Berry - Soph.
   Antwoin Daniels - Sr.
   Lee Tilley - Soph.
   Jared Cooper - R. Fresh.
   Kyle Coulahan - R. Fresh.
   Rudy Odom - Jr.
   Bart Eddins - Soph.
   Jackson Timmerman - Soph. - Walk-on
   Michael Hatter - Jr. - Walk-on
   Shaun White - R. Fresh. - Walk-on
   Brantley Poe - R. Fresh. - Walk-on

DESIGNATED SNAPPERS

   Robert Shiver - Jr.
   Rick Cherry - Soph.

DEFENSIVE ENDS

   Antonio Coleman - Jr.
   Sen’Derrick Marks - Jr.
   Antoine Carter - Soph.
   Michael Goggans - Soph.
   A.J. Greene - R. Fresh.
   Luke Farmer - Soph. - Walk-on
   Raven Gray - Jr. - Injured

INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINEMEN

   Mike Blanc - Soph.
   Jake Ricks - Jr.
   Zach Clayton - Soph.
   Bryant Miller - Soph.
   Darrell Roseman - Soph.
   Randall Robinson - Soph. - Walk-on

LINEBACKERS

   Chris Evans - Sr.
   Merrill Johnson - Sr.
   Courtney Harden - Sr.
   Tray Blackmon - Jr.
   Craig Stevens - Soph.
   Bo Harris - Soph.
   Brent Slusher - R. Fresh.
   Adam Herring - R. Fresh.
   Wade Christopher - R. Fresh. - Walk-on
   Jacob Shirey - Jr. - Walk-on
   Brian Summerhill - Sr. - Walk-on
   Deshaun Barnes - Fr.
   Robert Clifton - Jr. - Walk-on

DEFENSIVE BACKS

   Aairon Savage - Jr.
   Jerraud Powers - Jr.
   Mike McNeil - Soph.
   Zac Etheridge - Soph.
   Walter McFadden - Jr.
   Ryan Williams - Soph.
   Mike Slade - R. Fresh.
   Lorenzo Ferguson? - Jr.
   Brett Carr - Jr. - Walk-on
   Jeremy Flowers - Soph. Walk-on

KICKERS

   Wes Byrum - Soph.
   Zack Kutch - Sr.
   Morgan Hull - Soph.
   Graham Sutter - Soph.

PUNTERS

   Ryan Shoemaker - Soph.
   Patrick Tatum - Soph.

“War Eagle!”

1.22.08

PREAMBLE:

One does not have to be a “rocket scientist” to know and to realize that the next 2-plus weeks before National Signing Day will be very interesting and particularly very revealing.

There seems to be a number of Auburn fans who have begun to waive the white flag pertaining to this year’s recruiting efforts and the current results. I truly believe that those Auburn fans are in the minority; but are most vocal. It reminds me of the time from 1992 to 1995 when so many Auburn people would either call me, write me or come by to talk to me only to say that “Alabama will never go on probation.” Of course the Tide did receive the NCAA hammer, and they have never been the same since. And, in response to one particular individual who posts on the “Inside the Auburn Tigers” free board and stated that in 1992, 1993 and 1994 I bragged about the Tide going on probation, he is absolutely correct. More importantly, however, my bragging proved to be 100% correct.

Some may recall that two years ago Georgia’s recruiting class was rated by Rivals as the #4 class in the nation. For various reasons, when this #4 class reported for Fall Practice, there were only 13 members of the class remaining.

For the Class of 2008, perhaps Auburn could be doing better. Frankly, I am convinced that Auburn is and will do well by signing day. The Tigers are recruiting for needs. A coach, like Tuberville, who is going into his 10th year at Auburn, by now, should be recruiting for needs.

Frankly, any one who places a program’s worth solely on what a Jamie Newberg, Forrest Davis, Scott Kennedy, etc. (all paid “experts”) rate a player, then he or she probably believes that professional wrestling is the epitome of reality.

There is only one group of individuals who are the “experts” in recruiting. They are the coaches. If the coaches at Auburn had not been the evaluators of talent over the years, then players like Lionel James, Tim Jessie, Gerald Williams, Edmund Nelson, Gerald Robinson, Mike Pelton, Todd Boland, Reggie Slack, Alex Lincoln, Dontarrious Thomas, Karlos Dansby, Aaron Savage, Zac Etheridge and many, many others would have never been offered a scholarship.

Yes, if the world ended right now, Alabama would have a great recruiting class. But, since it was proven Sunday night in Green Bay that global warming has yet to go into full force and effect, it appears that the earth is still on its proper axis. Therefore, there are a number of events that are going to occur between now and the start of Fall Practice, 2008.

Let’s see what happens by two-a-days.

(A) APPLEWHITE/MUSCHAMP AT TEXAS

I can only speak for myself, but I would cherish the possibility of being a “fly on the wall” in a conference room at the University of Texas at Austin Athletic Department with Will Muschamp talking to Major Applewhite about football recruiting and tactics at Alabama since the hiring of Nick Saban.

I wonder what Coach Applewhite would say.

(B)        Interesting note: Star Jackson’s head coach at Lake Worth, Florida High School in Errick Lowe, a former wide receiver at Auburn (#8) while Terry Bowden was head coach. Lowe is also a graduate of Lake Worth High School.

(C)        Northside High School in Warner Robins, Georgia won its second straight Georgia Class 4-A state championship last December. Northside has won 31 consecutive games. Northside’s head coach is Conrad Nix, a 1967 graduate of Auburn, and the father of former A.U. quarterback Patrick Nix.

(D)        Rex Sharpe, a linebacker from Fairfield, Alabama High School, who signed with Auburn two years ago, has signed to play at the University of Minnesota. Sharpe, after signing with the Tigers did not qualify academically and, therefore, has attended, in order, Butler Community College in Kansas, and then to Arizona West Community College.

(E)    Q.V. LOWE

Auburn-Montgomery Head Baseball Coach Q.V. Lowe has been named the 2007 Alabama Baseball Coaches Association College Coach of the Year. Last season (2007), Lowe led Auburn-Montgomery to its second consecutive Southern States Athletic Association Conference regular season championship; finishing the season with a school record 51 wins and a 4th place ranking in the final NAIA Top 25 poll. His overall coaching record is 995 wins, 529 losses and 4 ties. Coach Lowe was an outstanding pitcher on Auburn’s 1967 College World Series attendee’s team, and is a graduate of Auburn. Congratulations, Coach Lowe.

(F)        Beginning with this Thursday’s Edition (January 24, 2008) of “The Auburn Villager,” I will be writing not only feature articles about Auburn teams, sports and events, but, additionally, an editorial column. Both of these will appear in each week’s Edition of “The Auburn Villager.” If you would like to subscribe to “The Auburn Villager” or advertise, the newspaper can be contacted at the following:

“The Auburn Villager”
P.O. Box 1633
Auburn, AL 36831-1633;

Telephone #: (334)501-0600
Facsimile #: (334)826-0205
E-Mail: adv@auburnvillager.com

or
circ@auburnvillager.com

The newspaper is mailed to its subscribers every Wednesday.

(G)        I have one question, of many, that has been on my mind. With all of the wide receivers committed to Alabama, when they become sophomore or redshirt freshmen, who is going to throw to them?

(H) My thoughts and prayers are with Bob Otto and his recovery...a great Auburn man.

1/13/08

(A)    WHEN THERE IS NOTHING LEFT TO TALK ABOUT, LET’S TALK FOOTBALL RECRUITING

For the weekend of Friday, January 18th through Sunday, January 20th, Auburn has already received confirmation from four (4) 2008 football prospects who make official visits. They include the following:

NAME    POS.    HT.    WT.    SP.    HIGH SCHOOL    HOMETOWN
(1) Jerrell Harris    LB    6'4"    220    4.5    Gadsden City    Gadsden, AL

    Also considering Alabama, Clemson, FSU, Florida, Georgia, Southern Cal and Tennessee;

(2) T.J. Barnes    OL    6'7"    320    5.2    Enterprise    Enterprise, AL

    Also considering Georgia Tech, Mississippi State and Clemson;

    The son of former A.U. Tiger Terry Jones, and the nephew of former A.U. players Randy Holt and Fred Baxter.

(3) Mark Barron    RB    6'2"    205    4.5    St. Paul’s    Mobile, AL

    Presently committed to Alabama.

(4) Courtney Upshaw    DE    6'3"    240    4.6    Eufaula    Eufaula, AL

    Presently committed to Alabama.

Burton Scott, a 5'11", 195 lb. 4.4 forty athlete was a late addition as an official visitor to A.U. this weekend (1/11 - 1/13/08). Scott, from Vigor High School of Mobile, Alabama, is committed to play for the University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa.. His high school coach, Kerry Stevenson, as interviewed by Stephen Atkinson of “Inside the Auburn Tigers,” did not seem to be pleased that Scott had decided to visit, officially, Auburn. I wonder why?!

I have been an avid follower of college football recruiting since 1974, even before the days of Forrest Davis and Joe Terranova.

If Burton Scott, Courtney Upshaw and Mark Barron, all current Alabama commitments, all make official visits to Auburn, it is the first time I can ever remember that 3 Alabama commitments have made subsequent visits to Auburn.

Even for those readers of this blog who have taken “personal shots” at me, this should give you more than a “cryptic hint” as to what is occurring at UAT and what is going to happen. I expect more UAT commits to do the same. Current high school athletes are much more knowledgeable than those of the 70's, 80's and 90's.

(B)    UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA (Eskimo Home for Sale):

The University of South Alabama will begin a NCAA Bowl Championship football team with its first game being played in the Fall of 2009. As a result, USA has begun the interview process for its head coach.

Eddie Gran of Auburn is one (1) of the candidates that has been interviewed.
Perhaps the news this past week with the most intrigue, however, is that involving current Alabama Defensive Coordinator Kevin Steele.

For several days last week, it was rumored that Steele was also interviewing for the USA job. Enough became enough, and finally The Alabama media and sports talk show hosts came to the “apparent” rescue of Steele and the Tide. Unable to deny that Steele had met with USA officials, it was (and currently is being) represented that Steele had met with USA officials (not sure of how many times) only as a “consultant.”

Give me a break, or as my 16-year old daughter says to me: “Whatever!” If anyone believes that, then I have an Eskimo igloo, with a lifetime no-melt warranty, for sale cheap in the country of Ecuador, South America.

One only has to use common sense here. For example:

(1)    Why would the Tide’s Defensive Coordinator take time away from a very important recruiting year to assist another football program get started, not only in the state of Alabama but also the Mobile area, who could eventually recruit against the Tide for the valuable Mobile area talent (one or two players per year, at least)?

(2)    The defense of “well, he only consulted with South Alabama during the NCAA Recruiting dead period,” has many holes in it. Even if that is true, isn’t it convenient for Coach Steele to be in the Mobile area during the mandated recruiting no contact dead period? Both Steele and Tide assistant coach Lance Thompson have responsibility for recruiting the Mobile area and both have spent a great deal of their time in that area since being hired by Saban.

It is important, right now during recruiting, for Alabama to show to recruits that the remaining assistant coaches on Saban’s staff are there permanently, and that there is stability. Let’s see what occurs after National Signing Date.

Just food for thought!

(C) In the January 14, 2008 weekly edition of “The Sporting News,” mock draft of the NFL first round (which is held in April) was published with some very interesting predictions. TSN predicted that the New York Jets would take Auburn senior defensive end Quentin Groves as the #6 player to be selected in the NFL Draft following #1 Chris Long (Dolphins - DE - Virginia); #2 Glenn Dorsey (Rams - DT - LSU) (and according to the Alabama media, after surviving the worst block in the history of college football); #3 Darren McFadden (Raiders - RB - Arkansas); #4 Brian Brohm (Falcons - QB - Louisville); and #5 Matt Ryan (Chiefs - QB - Boston College).

Perhaps one of the most interesting predictions by TSN is that Auburn senior offensive King Dunlap will also be drafted in the 1st round by the San Diego Charges (the #27th overall selection). The proposed reasoning by the Chargers is that “A.J. Smith has shown a willingness to gamble on elite athletes in the first round with the belief they will develop into elite players.” Let’s hope so for King!

Pat Sims was not listed as being a projected 1st round selection.

(D)    AUBURN MEN’S BASKETBALL RECRUITING:

For the April, 2008 signing period, Coach Jeff Lebo of the A.U. Mens Basketball Team will have at least one (1) scholarship available. Expect Coach Lebo to attempt to sign a big man. Some possibilities include Bawa Muniru, a 6'10" Center from Madison Academy of Huntsville, Alabama and Larry Jackson, a 6'8" forward from Moss Point, Mississippi High School.

“War Eagle!” - “Remember, we did not pay Albert Means $200,000.00; it was only $20,000; and that is okay!”

(I) I have listed below a list of Football Prospects who will making an official visit to Auburn this weekend (Friday, January 11 through Sunday, January 13). This, of course, is subject to change .

Also considering Clemson, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama and Virgina Tech.

(15) Philip Pierre-Louis-WR5’9” 165 4.25 St. Thomas Aquinas Fort Lauderdale, FL

Also considering Mississippi State, Colorado, Syracuse, Iowa State, Central Michigan, and Florida International

Just an update about Auburn’s latest commitment, D’Antoine Hood of Central High School of Phenix City, Alabama. He is close friends with De Ron Furr and Jarmon Fortson. In Fact, Hood and Fortson both began their high school years at Russell County High School in Seale, Alabama, with Fortson later crossing the Chattahoochee River to attend Carver High of Columbus, Georgia and Hood later transferring to Central of Phenix City. I saw Hood play this past fall when Central played Opelika High. He performed well as Central’s kick-off returner.

PREAMBLE:

The next 30 days are going to be interesting; not that the last 45 days have not been.

I hope to be able to post more than weekly blogs due to the approaching upcoming football signing date of February 6, 2008, as well as the current status of the Auburn coaching staff; and the ongoing sagas at Alabama. I want to sincerely thank the kind comments and support of my Web Page that many have stated in forums, by telephone calls, letters and E-Mail. To those who criticize my column I do appreciate your comments because I will attempt to improve on the articles and their substance. Just remember, the site is free. "Don't cost you nuthin!"

It is very important that Auburn people stay together; particularly at this time.

WILL MUSCHAMP

With Coach Will Muschamp leaving A.U. to take the defensive coordinator's position at the University of Texas, there are many questions as to how this will affect Auburn's football recruiting for its 2008 Class. Coach Muschamp was and is an excellent recruiter. His primary assignment area was north Georgia, but he was heavily involved with a number of defensive prospects across the South. Current commitment Drew Cole was and is one of those players.

Listed below are current defensive prospects that have either signed with or given non-binding verbal commitments to Auburn for its Class of 2008:<