Now that Gus Malzahn has found his way down to the Plains, I wonder what will become of the Auburn quarterback position?
The Tigers aren’t known for having great signal callers, though there have been a few decent ones over the years, including recent first-round pick Jason Campbell (and let’s not forget the great Reggie Slack).
But if anyone has shown that he can create an instant star at quarterback, it’s Malzahn.
In his first year as offensive coordinator at Arkansas, he had touted freshman Mitch Mustain and not-so-touted Casey Dick to work with. The problem was that Malzahn didn’t get to run the type of quarterback-centered offense he prefers, instead shaping the attack around the talents of Darren McFadden. Still, Mustain went 8-0 as a true frosh starter before Dick took over and helped lead the Hogs to the SEC West title.
Malzahn left for Tulsa the next season and finally got a chance to run his offense. He had one year with Paul Smith and promptly turned him into a 5,000-yard, 47-touchdown passer in 2007. Last year, he had another senior to work with, David Johnson, who produced 4,000 yards and 46 touchdowns.
At Auburn, Malzahn will have a bit more talent at his disposal. Heading into the fall, both Neil Caudle and Kodi Burns have a shot to be the quarterback. If history is any guide, one of these guys will probably lead the SEC in passing in 2009.
My point: If Gene Chizik can keep Malzahn in place for a while–and assuming Malzahn has full control of the offense–I think the Auburn quarterback could become one of the marquee positions in college football.
One might even win a Heisman Trophy.
Not gonna happen just yet but help is on the way to the Plains. Caudle is the best bet to start in 2009 but one of the RF or true Fr may see plenty of playin time. Rollinson is a very athletic QB and will eventually get a shot to lead the offense. Surely Malzan will attract top prospects if he stays long enough to establish his offense. The key to this season for my Tigers will be Ted Roofs defense. Can it hold up under the fast paced change of possession the spread can create? If yes, the Tiger will be a big surprise in the SEC. Contrary to belief we are not depleted of good players they were just grossly missused in ’08. The O-Line is shaping up like it did in 2007 and will be one of the best nation wide. They have beefed up and are blocking strait ahead not that finesse crap like Otis had em doing last season. Looks like a 9 or 10 win season if we find a lil depth across the board.