Auburn fans ready to see defense, quarterbacks at A-Day game
Jovon Robinson makes a move during an Auburn spring practice. (Auburn Athletics)
Offensive lineman Alex Kozan said Auburn may have its deepest defensive line since he’s been on the Plains. The senior left guard rattled off the names of seven D-linemen who have shined as he has faced them in spring practice before he paused to think.
Auburn players, defensive coordinator talk spring practice from Alabama NewsCenter on Vimeo.
“I’m sure I’m forgetting some of them,” he told media following a practice this week. “There’s about 10 of them. They’re deep. I think the D-line’s going to be ready to play and I’m excited to see them this season.”
Fans will get a chance to see the defensive line and rest of the Tiger team during the A-Day Game Saturday at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Gates open at 1 p.m. and kickoff is at 3. Tickets are $5.
Buck end Carl Lawson has been a stalwart on that defensive line, especially when injuries didn’t keep him out of the lineup. He’s excited that Auburn has “a lot of bodies” available on the defensive line.
“And we’re getting some more,” the junior said. “I’m happy, rotating and being able to stay fresh like we did in 2013.”
Defensive coordinator Kevin Steele said the depth and skill of the line will help other aspects of the defense.
“We’ve got a chance up front with as many guys as we’ve got. … That’s a pretty good group that they’re playing behind,” he said. “That affects the linebacker play and I think the guys feel comfortable.”
Steele was asked what it means when players are moved from practicing with the first team, second team or third team. His answer: Nothing, adding that coaches have moved players around to create a selfless group.
“We don’t worry about where they are on the depth chart,” he said. “It’s all about the team.”
The moves have been done by design – from first team to second team, second team to third team and vice versa – to see how players will react.
“Are you going to pout?” Steele asked. “Are you going to step on your lip or are you going to go play?”
On the other side of the ball, senior Jeremy Johnson, sophomore Sean White and junior John Franklin III continue to vie to be the starter at quarterback.
“I’ve seen guys raising their level,” wide receiver Marcus Davis said of the signal-callers. “They’re giving us a quality competition and may the best man win.”
