In 2007, Auburn started the season 1-2 with losses to South Florida and Miss State. These were preceded by an embarrassing performance against Kansas State.
It wasn't until three true freshmen offensive linemen had the gall to call out the veterans in practice. Rumors surfaced of Ryan Pugh and Chops BlockMcGee being so physical that the coaches decided to play them.
So Lee Ziemba was moved to LT, Chops to RG with Pugh - a true freshman center - manning the RT position.
From there, Auburn went on to upset Florida in Gainesville, lose to the eventual national champions by a second TD pass, defeat their arch-rival, and win a thrilling New Years Eve bowl game. They finished 9-4 - not bad for three true freshman linemen.
This year (as referenced by CFB Live today), the expectations are at an all time low. We're not even expected to make a bowl game. 6-6 will be respectable. 7-5 a wonderful accomplishment. 8-4 is a homerific prediction.
What's the #1 reason for these predictions?
Not Cam. Not Fairley.
It's the offensive line.
Bring up Michael Dyer and O-Mac?
They won't do anything because of the offensive line.
Bring up the possibility of our QBs being successful?
Not a chance. They won't have time to get a rhythm because of our offensive line.
Our upcoming season is going to be difficult and frustrating especially after experiencing one of the greatest seasons of all time for all teams.
But let 2007 be a glimmer of hope. Sometimes, a hungry young batch of players wanting to prove themselves is all you need to do miraculous things.
Ask Wes Byrum - true freshmen in 2007. If it wasn't for that young, inexperienced line in Gainesville, he would have never gotten to run across the field doing the gator chomp.
68 Days.