I find the 3 year thing a bit far fetched. No matter how they've turned out, 07 was ranked #6 or #7 by Rivals. The 06' class was pretty highly ranked as well. It was the total lack of effort in the 08' class and the one started for 09' that he should be accountable for. Again, not because of how any of those may or may not turn out, but because it was obvious CTT was tanking it and could have done so much better.
Agreed here.
There are two reasons our talent level is down.
1. The lack of consistent effort the last year or two. I think that Tony Franklin, while he should have helped us, ended up hurting us after the Clemson game. By that I mean, with the coaches not buying in behind the scenes, the consistent effort to recruit the type of players needed for Franklin's offense didn't happen. Nobody believed in him, or his scheme well enough to sell it to top rated recruits.
2. Inconsistent coaching for players already on scene. Our Offensive line was the poster child for this problem last year. Big three point stance ogres turned into two point stance pass blockers. They were a monster and exciting group when they came to Auburn, then for some reason, we changed their whole game by going with Franklin. Players like Kodi Burns were left to suffer because of infighting and other behind the scenes issues. We've got juniors and seniors that have no more consistent coaching behind them than true and redshirt freshman on the field.
One thing I don't agree with is the 2011 issue (seen it pop up in a few places). I believe with the JUCO level recruiting and the positive playmakers signing on, our OL will be good over the next few years and fill in rather quickly. (that's my hope anyway)
Tyrik Rollison will be a veteran (or I'm assuming he will be) by 2011 with a great defense behind Jr. Safeties Demond Washington and Bates. Great linebackers in Sophmores Jake Holland and White, Owens, etc... WR talent will be good. IF Malzahn is still there, it will be one of the first times in a long time that Auburn would have had at least three years, or consistent offensive coaching and philosophies.
Only time will tell, but it's pretty clear that removing the emotional element, and love of Auburn and the national perspective is that Auburn seems, anyway, to be moving in the right direction.