Mixed Signals-Calling

   Coaches at Auburn and Tennessee, whose teams slopped their way to a 14-12 game Saturday that was won (or not lost) by the Tigers, have examined their queasy quarterback situations.

   Tommy Tuberville has decided to stick with Chris Todd, keeping Kodi Burns in reserve. Phil Fulmer, by contrast, has put Jon Crompton on notice that he could step aside for Nick Stephens.

   Why the different approaches? Easy. Auburn is 3-1, still in the SEC West hunt. Tennessee is 1-3 and on the ropes. 

   Also, if Stephens gets the nod, he'll break in against a soft touch, Northern Illinois. Then it's back to the SEC grind.

   You make the call, Tigers and Vols fans: Todd or Burns? Crompton or Stephens?

   

   

4th Weekend Lesson: Tigers', Vols' "O" Grade A Zero

   Yeah, yeah, the Auburn and Tennessee defenses kicked tail Saturday. But the Tigers can dismiss any SEC West title hopes if their offense doesn't perk up.

  Turns out, the 3-2 win over Mississippi State was no aberration. Auburn was so helpless in moving out of the shadows of its goal line Saturday that offensive coordinator Tony Franklin, who came to town on a white horse, took to calling quarterback keepers and sweeps -- stuff normally not found in the spread offense playbook.

   What can Auburn do on offense, besides pray that running back Brad Lester heals?

   As for the Volunteers, where have you gone, David Cutcliffe? Oh, there you are, reviving Duke as the new head coach. UT sure misses your offensive coordinating. Your replacement, Dave Clawson, has a clueless quarterback, Jon Crompton, and an uncertain strategy. 

   Game stat of the SEC season: All seven of the Vols' second-half possession began outside their 35-yard-line, and four of those launched in Auburn territory. One lousy score resulted.

   Is it time to replace Crompton? Change the offensive approach? Beg Cutcliffe to reconsider?