During last year's dismal 3-9 season, leaders on Auburn's football team were limited.
If any team is going to be successful, leadership is something a team has to have an abundance of.
This year, veterans are assuming more of a leadership role than they have in the past, which is something they learned from previous teams at Auburn.
"When I first got here we had Darvin (Adams)," junior receiver Trovon Reed said. "Darvin was the leader of the room, and I saw how he led. Then I saw Emory (Blake) become the leader of the room, so what I try to do is mimic all those guys. Those guys knew what it took to win. This young group now, I'm trying to help them know I know what it takes to win. I've been here when we've won and I've been here when we've lost, so just roll with me because I'm not going to let you down."
Many have written off this group of receivers and don't expect them to do much this season, which puts much more of a priority on leadership for success.
But Dee Ford and the defensive line have very high expectations for their season, especially with potential new stars Carl Lawson and Elijah Daniel at defensive end.
Even with the talent on the defensive line, leadership will still remain a priority, and Ford does not see that as being a problem.
"It's really us pushing them and guiding them, and trying to make their job a lot easier," Ford said. "One thing they came in with is violent hands, and that is the most important key to pass rushing. They are a little wild, but they have violent hands. So from there you can clean up the technique, because pass rushing doesn't have to be pretty."
Both Ford and Reed are veteran players that have seen a lot during their time at Auburn, but sophomore defensive back Josh Holsey is showing that you do not have to be a veteran to become a leader.
While veteran safety Demetruce McNeal is out with an injury, Holsey has been leading and helping the new players learn the new defense.
"I'm teaching the ones that play my position. I know I'm learning as well but I know a little more than they do," Holsey said. "They are asking me questions and I'm telling them whenever they need help to just come ask me. When we are in the film room I sit next to two of them. So I'm helping them out telling them what checks to make and all that."
After getting an interception today in practice, Holsey is showing the younger guys that he not only knows how to lead off the field, but on it as well.
If Auburn wants to improve from last year's season, then leadership like this will need to continue throughout the season.
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