Returning kickoffs for touchdowns is nothing new for freshman running back Tre Mason.
In the season opener vs. Utah State, Mason did what he's been doing his entire career with a 97-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the second quarter.
"Since seventh grade, I always have taken the opening kickoff back," Mason said. "This past senior year, the first three games, I ran back three kicks for touchdowns. And no one kicked it to me until the last game of the season, and I took that back for a touchdown."
For his efforts in the opening game, Mason was named co-SEC Freshman of the Week.
"I was hungry, hungry to play," Mason said. "I was anxious to get on the field to show everyone what I can do and what we can do as a team.
"I know we have a lot of talent on this team and that we're underrated. We're going to be the underdog a lot, but we're just coming out to shock everyone."
For Mason, there is a difference between preparation and practice intensity at the college level, but whenever he touches the ball his goal remains the same: get the ball to the endzone.
"Football is going to always be football," Mason said. "I was excited to get my first carry. When I first got it, I was trying to break it for a touchdown. I always aim to score whenever I touch the ball. To me, there's no such thing as a short-yardage play; everything should lead to a touchdown. If it doesn't, it should be a big play."
One of the best at making big plays is Mason's favorite running back Chris Johnson of the Tennessee Titans. Mason notes that he wants to have his own style, but he loves with way Johnson plays the game.
"Speed kills, and he's got it all," Mason said. "He's got hands coming out of the backfield, he's agile, he's elusive, and everyone knows he's fast."
Before each game, Mason has one pregame ritual he never forgets.
"I always call my family," Mason said, "at least one family member no matter who it is. I try and call my parents. They always get me into my comfort zone.
"Then I listen to my music. My music gets me in that mindset. It puts me in that mode where I'm hungry where I can just go out and fight."
Mason said he knows Auburn is the place for him because he can go about his daily activities without any worries.
"Everyone here is so nice and polite,"
Mason said. "It's no trouble on campus. That's what I love most. I feel like I can get through my day without a hassle, without worrying about things."
Even though Mason is only playing in his third collegiate game this Saturday, he has already become a special teams asset for the Tigers--as long as teams continue to kick to him.
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