Quarterbacks - An obvious area of emphasis for coach Malzahan, look for sophomore Jonathan Wallace and junior Kiehl Frazier to battle for the starting position, while sophomores Ben Durand and Tate O’Connor continue to adjust to the past-paced, no huddle offense.
As seen during Malzahan’s tenure prior to coaching Arkansas State, the quarterbacks in his system tend to thrive. Cam Newton started one season for Auburn in Malzahan’s system, winning the national championship and the Heisman trophy along the way. Don’t expect a Cam-tacular explosion from the start this year, but do expect cohesive and consistent play from whoever starts Saturday, August 31, against Washington State. Malzahan is preaching the basics to his players this year who, at times last season, were lacking. A much more composed and prepared leader of the huddle should arise this year in Malzahn’s system.
Runningbacks - Junior Tre Mason was last season’s highlight reel, and coming into a new offensive scheme where anyone has the opportunity to shine, expect Mason to continue where he left off last year. Offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee won’t be afraid to spread the ball around, giving Mason even more touches with catches out of the backfield and a well-rounded screen game.
Junior Corey Grant, who saw limited action last season, is a formidable backup for Mason, but sophomores Andrew Williams and Chandler Shakespeare, as well as junior Patrick Lymon and Cameron Artis-Payne could also see time, especially with the fast-paced tempo Malzahan is known for.
Fullback Jay Prosch is possibly the strongest man on the team, leaving Lashlee and Malzahn with endless possibilities. Prosch should be seen as the Phillip Lutzenkirchen of 2010, catching passes from the tight end position and out of the backfield. More carried from Prosch is also likely, as his linebacker-like stature is ideal for short-yardage situations.
Tight Ends - Junior Brandon Fulse and C.J. Uzomah have starting experience from last season, although Uzomah was injured toward the end of the season. Both are experienced pass catchers as well as blockers capable of snagging passes in the middle of the field to split the defense or in the red zone with their height advantage.
Redshirt freshman Spencer Smith, Ricky Parks and Michael Clifton are excellent candidates to learn and become solid prospects for years to come, but expect Fulse and Uzomah to see most of the starting time.
Wide Receivers - In a report on al.com, Lashlee said junior Jaylon Denson is someone to count on, a player most Auburn fans aren’t familiar with.
Sophomore Sammie Coates should also continue his consistent performance in 2013. Sophomore Ricardo Lewis is another young receiver the coaches have been talking about during spring practice, while junior Trovon Reed and Quan Bray should still be utilized as mostly outside threats, with Reed remaining a dangerous punt and kickoff return man as well.
Offensive Lineman - The 2013 offensive line will have no seniors to lead the charge, but with the coaching of new offensive line coach J.B. Grimes, the Tigers should have a much more consistent and effective line than last season to steer Malzahan’s power-running attack.
Expected starters include sophomore Greg Robinson at left tackle, Dismukes at center, junior Chad Slad at right guard and sophomore Patrick Miller at right tackle.
Malzahan does have a knack for developing young talent, so don’t be surprised if younger players, such as redshirt freshman Jordan Diamond, step up throughout the season.
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