Auburn hit the field in full pads for the first time Tuesday, but it was missing faces who caught the headlines from practice.
Expected starting offensive guard Chad Slade was joined by offensive tackle Austin Golson on the sideline not dressed out in pads.
Cornerback Trovon Reed, who moved to defense after spending much of his Auburn career as a wide receiver, was also not dressed out.
Now that the Tigers are dressed out in pads, full preparation for the 2014 season can truly begin.
"We've been in shells and I think everybody gets excited, especially on defense, because the offense feels like they're running us when we have just shorts on," defensive back Josh Holsey said. "So I think it's great for us to get in pads and get a little contact going on to get ready for tomorrow."
The presence of fresh talent has pushed a number of more firmly entrenched veterans to improve in the offseason.
"I watched the players before I got here and I watch them now," defensive lineman Montravius Adams said. "I know if I was starting and somebody came in trying to get my spot, I know I'd get better so I'm sure they're working to be better."
The shorts and t-shirts of spring are gone for now as Auburn's athletes put on the pads and inch ever closer to the beginning of the 2014 season.
"It's my favorite part," Auburn tackle Shon Coleman said. "Getting out there and being physical, that's why I love this game so much."
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