Following Auburn's first game against Arkansas, many things became clear: Jeremy Johnson is extremely overqualified as Auburn's backup quarterback, Duke Williams is a special player and Arkansas is much improved from last season.
Perhaps most of all, though, is Jordan-Hare Stadium needs some updating.
Right from the start, the scoreboard clocks malfunctioned and could not be repaired until halftime.
For this to happen at all, let alone in the first game of the year, is unacceptable.
The sound system is also subpar. While that does not seem like a huge deal, it is something that is missing from the game day experience.
After the game, Arkansas head coach Bret Bielema complained his assistant coaches were stuck in an elevator during halftime, something that is, again, unacceptable.
Those are just the technical problems.
Aesthetically, Jordan-Hare falls short of other conference rivals' stadiums, many of which have recently undergone significant upgrades.
LSU is finishing their expansion to Tiger Stadium, which brings its capacity to more than 102,000 and cost approximately $80 million.
Texas A&M is also finishing renovations to Kyle Field, bringing its capacity to more than 102,000, as well, and costing $450 million.
Mississippi State finished renovations to Davis-Wade Stadium, adding approximately 8,000 seats, as well as several suites.
Not to mention Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa is one of the best-looking stadiums in America.
The renovations are not just about adding seats; they are about improving the game day experience.
I'm not saying Jordan-Hare needs to expand.
Considering this was the first year since 2011 Auburn sold all of its season packages, it would be difficult to consistently sell-out for most of the smaller games.
First of all, the little things need to be fixed: improve or add scoreboards, improve the sound system, renovate the usually forgotten press box.
Instead of expansion, the outside of the stadium needs to be focused on.
Large, plastic murals are the most aesthetically pleasing aspects of the outside of our stadium.
Those are nothing compared to the stadiums of Auburn's rivals.
The concrete "ribs" descending from the upper decks need to be covered or at least made visually appealing.
The metal bleachers in the end zones are outdated and need attention sooner rather than later.
With Gus Malzahn leading the program, Auburn football is heading in the right direction.
But to stay in that direction, you need to be able to recruit.
Recruits love nothing more than being wowed by impressive stadiums. As it stands, several other stadiums in the SEC outshine Jordan-Hare.
If Malzahn continues his success on the field, other programs with more impressive facilities will come calling with loads of cash.
I do not see Malzahn leaving for another school, but why give him any reason to?
Just improve the man's facilities, especially the stadium, and enjoy rooting for one of the smartest coaches in the country.
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