The Auburn Observer

C Dylan Cardwell (Shanna Lockwood/Auburn Athletics)If you’re receiving this free podcast episode email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including this week’s spring practice coverage — and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.Justin and Painter discuss Bruce Pearl’s fluid yet promising roster. They talk about Sharife Cooper’s draft declaration, Justin Powell’s decision and the need to invest in Johnnie Harris and Auburn women’s basketball *right now*.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

If you’re receiving this free podcast episode email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including the Observations from last Thursday’s scrimmage — and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.WR Ja’Varrius Johnson (Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics)Justin and Painter discuss both good and bad news for Bryan Harsin’s football program. They talk about a wide-open basketball transfer market and dismiss dumb arguments about college sports.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

DC Derek Mason (Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics)If you’re receiving this free podcast episode email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including tomorrow’s newsletter on what we learned from Week 1 of spring ball — and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.Justin and Painter discuss Auburn’s open practice inside Jordan-Hare Stadium. They begin with the good news Bruce Pearl secured and laugh at Tennessee. Primarily, they focus on what we learned in week one of spring practice.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

HC Bryan Harsin (Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics)If you’re receiving this free podcast episode email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including our projected football depth charts — and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.Justin and Painter talk about the promise of a new era under Bryan Harsin’s leadership. They discuss Auburn’s transfer options after Justin Powell’s departure.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

SF Allen Flanigan (Shanna Lockwood/Auburn Athletics)If you’re receiving this free podcast episode email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including last week’s projected football depth charts — and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.Justin and Painter recap Auburn’s win against Mississippi State. They discuss the Tigers’ exciting yet uncertain future and end the episode by thanking y’all for your support.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

(Twitter — @AuburnMBB)If you’re receiving this free podcast episode email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including the first two projected football depth charts of 2021 that will come out on Monday and Tuesday — and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.Justin and Painter recap Auburn basketball’s (and Bruce Pearl’s) sixth consecutive win against Tennessee. They discuss why it’s critical for Al to be Al and how Jamal Johnson was “the key to the game.” Plus, Painter secures the bag.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

If you’re receiving this free podcast episode email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories — including tomorrow’s on Dylan Brooks — and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.HC Bruce Pearl (Courtesy of LSU Athletics)Justin and Painter review Auburn’s loss to LSU. They discuss a variety of factors which led to what Bruce Pearl described as a “disappointing" performance. Plus, why doom and gloom about the program is overwrought. They end the episode on a positive note with Dylan Brooks’ commitment to Bryan Harsin and Auburn.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

If you’re receiving this free podcast episode email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.HC Bruce Pearl and PF JT Thor (Shanna Lockwood/Auburn Athletics)Justin and Painter recap Auburn basketball’s road loss to Kentucky. They discuss the program’s trajectory, the Tigers’ “third quarter” woes, supporting players and, yes, those foul calls.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

PF JT Thor (Shanna Lockwood/Auburn Athletics)Justin and Painter recap Auburn basketball’s loss to Ole Miss. They discuss the Tigers’ defensive struggles, inconsistency in the paint and the tall order of figuring out the frontcourt. They finish the episode with positive news for Bryan Harsin’s team.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including tomorrow’s story on Auburn’s new football facility — you can do so by clicking the button below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter recap Auburn basketball’s loss to Baylor. They discuss another rough “third quarter” and an unusual day for the Tigers’ backcourt. The episode finishes with a discussion about Nick Eason’s hiring and the 2021 football schedule.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including tomorrow’s story on Auburn’s defensive line overhaul — you can do so by clicking the button below.Photo credit: Rod Aydelotte/Waco Tribune Herald This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

HC Bruce Pearl (South Carolina Athletics)Justin and Painter recap Auburn’s win against South Carolina. They discuss stellar offensive preparation and execution, Sharife Cooper’s first half for the ages and improved play in several problem areas.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including tomorrow’s story on one of Auburn football’s newest assistant coaches — you can do so by clicking the button below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

SG/SF Devan Cambridge (Shanna Lockwood/Auburn Athletics)Justin and Painter recap Auburn’s win against Kentucky. They discuss another strong performance from Allen Flanigan and Devan Cambridge, alongside improved play in the game’s closing moments from Sharife Cooper. They end on football with Bryan Harsin’s hiring of wide receivers coach Cornelius Williams. The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including tomorrow’s Film Room piece — you can do so by clicking the button below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

PG Sharife Cooper (Shanna Lockwood/Auburn Athletics)Justin and Painter review Auburn’s 94-90 loss to Alabama. They discuss Sharife Cooper’s first performance and what it did for Bruce Pearl’s Tigers. Plus, they talk about Bryan Harsin’s staff and where all the money goes.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including tomorrow’s story on Derek Mason’s defense — you can do so by clicking the button below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review a busy week with mixed results for Auburn football and basketball. Plus, the Bryan Harsin era is officially underway. Bruce Pearl builds a team for the future.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including tomorrow’s research-heavy story on Auburn’s offensive line situation — you can do so by clicking the button below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter react to Auburn’s hiring of head coach Bryan Harsin. They talk about a clear shift from past hires, who they believe moved the needle on this program-defining decision and run down Harsin’s career.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including Ferg’s story Wednesday morning on Harsin — you can do so by clicking the button below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter assess Auburn football’s coaching search to date. Plus, they discuss a variety of paths available to the program and end with tentative optimism about Bruce Pearl’s basketball program.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including the Postgame Observations — you can do so by clicking the button below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

(Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics)Justin and Painter discuss what’s next now that Auburn has decided to move on from Gus Malzahn after eight seasons. Plus, some previously recorded basketball talk.Apologies for a second email today, as the previous podcast for today was immediately out of date as soon as the Malzahn news dropped.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including the Postgame Observations — you can do so by clicking the button below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

RB Tank Bigsby (Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics)Justin and Painter review Auburn’s loss to No. 5 Texas A&M. Plus, they focus on Auburn’s lackluster run defense, a rough fourth quarter, more red-zone woes, inconsistent offensive play and another major missed opportunity. Auburn basketball provides a glimmer of promise.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including the Postgame Observations — you can do so by clicking the button below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review Auburn’s Iron Bowl loss. Plus, they discuss why the Tigers’ performance reaffirmed their beliefs about the current state of the program. In order to back you away from a ledge, the guys finish talking about the promise Auburn basketball has displayed early in the season.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including the Postgame Observations — you can do so by clicking the button below.Photo Credit: Crimson Tide Photo This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review Auburn’s 30-17 win against Tennessee. They discuss the Tigers’ self-described “little bit rusty” start, break down they left room for improvement (run defense, red-zone offense, game management) and highlight where they found success (Bo Nix’s performance, timely defensive stops, special teams) ahead of a difficult challenge in the Iron Bowl next Saturday. The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode via email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes — including the Postgame Observations — you can do so by clicking the button below. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review another weekend of college football, one unlike any other. They discuss the direction of Gus Malzahn’s program and why it is incomparable to South Carolina. Plus, they talk about Ferg’s Film Room, the Tigers’ offensive line surge, another critical win on the recruiting trail for Bruce Pearl —this time over Kansas— and wrap up with with wishful thinking about Auburn golfers on tour.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode via email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below. Photo credit: Auburn Athletics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review the college football weekend while Auburn took deserved time off. Plus, they discuss a paradox of high expectations for Bruce Pearl, deep conference competition and take a look ahead at the Tigers’ rugged non-conference schedule.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode via email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.Photo credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review Auburn’s 48-11 win against LSU. They discuss an offensive explosion, dominant defense and even some good tackling on special teams, which culminated in the program’s most impressive win since 2017.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode via email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories, including the postgame Observations, and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.Photo credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review Auburn’s 35-28 win against Ole Miss. Plus, they look at how the Tigers reversed their fortunes from one week ago, discuss the brilliance of Kevin Steele’s game plan and wonder aloud if Chad Morris’ offense found its identity. The guys also share a special 20 percent off promo code for you to buy awesome Auburn shirts at Homefield Apparel.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode via email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories, including the postgame Observations, and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below. Image credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review Auburn’s 30-22 loss against South Carolina. Plus, they discuss the next step for Gus Malzahn, Bo Nix and the Tigers after another inconsistent offensive output. They talk about what went wrong for the 2-2 squad, where Chad Morris’ offense found success and why promises of potential are not enough. On a positive note, basketball is near, as Bruce Pearl spoke to media members ahead of an auspicious 2020 season. The guys also share a special 20 percent off promo code for you to buy awesome Auburn shirts at Homefield Apparel.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode via email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories, including the postgame Observations, and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.Photo credit: Travis Bell/South Carolina Athletics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review Auburn’s 30-28 win against Arkansas. Plus, they re-examine expectations for 2020 while discussing the Tigers’ biggest flaw. In much brighter conversations, they wrap up with talk about Auburn hoops and the latest pickup of 5-star Jabari Smith Jr. The guys also share a special 20 percent off promo code for you to buy awesome Auburn shirts at Homefield Apparel.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.If you’re receiving this free podcast episode via email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories, including the postgame Observations, and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.Photo credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review Auburn’s 27-6 loss against Georgia. Plus, they discuss another woeful offensive performance in Athens, the Tigers’ struggles in the trenches and a path ahead as Gus Malzahn tries to refocus his team ahead of the Arkansas game. The guys also share a special 20 percent off promo code for you to buy awesome Auburn shirts at Homefield Apparel.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Apologies to our premium subscribers for the duplicate email, as there was an error on the back end with Substack. If you’re receiving this free podcast episode via email and would like to upgrade to a paid subscription that gives you access to all stories, including the postgame Observations, and premium podcast episodes, you can do so by clicking the button below.Photo credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter review Auburn’s 29-16 win against Kentucky. Plus, they discuss Bo Nix and Seth Williams’ stellar performances, impressive adjustments, the Tigers’ clean play and — yeah — Roger McCreary is an NFL-caliber corner. The guys also share a special 20 percent off promo code for you to buy awesome Auburn shirts at Homefield Apparel. The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter discuss two surprises on Auburn’s 2020 depth chart. Plus, what Auburn’s offense looks like built around Bo Nix’s strengths and how Kentucky’s effective but potentially one-dimensional attack will be limited by the Tigers’ defense. The guys also share a special 20 percent off promo code for you to buy awesome Auburn shirts at Homefield Apparel. (Note: For some reason, the audio makes it sound like we’re in a fishbowl for the second half of the podcast. Our apologies — and we’re glad that this is a free one!)The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.Photo credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter preview Auburn’s schedule and a strength vs. strength matchup that could decide the Tigers’ opener against UK. Plus, they discuss an another impressive weekend for former Tigers in the NFL — including Cam Newton’s monster SNF performance. The guys also share a special 20 percent off promo code for you to buy awesome Auburn shirts at Homefield Apparel.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Justin and Painter discuss the case for Shaun Shivers as running back No. 1. Plus, they project Auburn’s moving 2020 depth chart, revisit Darius Slayton’s Auburn career and have a brief discussion about a looming game week against Kentucky. The guys also share a special 20 percent off promo code for you to buy awesome Auburn shirts at Homefield Apparel.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

On this edition of The Auburn Observer Podcast, Justin and Painter talk about what we learned from the Tigers’ week of practices and the third fall scrimmage. Plus, they break down Auburn’s current wide receivers and take a look at past and present defensive tackles.How confident can Auburn fans be that Gus Malzahn’s program has proper depth to contend for an SEC title in 2020?The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.(Photo of Painter’s favorite player, DT Dre Butler: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

On this edition of The Auburn Observer Podcast, Justin and Painter break down what we learned from Auburn’s coordinators: He Who Must Not Be Named and Kevin Steele.Plus, the biggest thing keeping Auburn from joining college football's elite tier, an increased focus on explosive offense, as well as a look at past and present tight ends and H-backs. Also, a discussion of the defense's warranted confidence.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.(Photo of OC Chad Morris: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

On this edition of The Auburn Observer Podcast, Justin and Painter talk about what we learned from the Tigers’ week of practices and the second fall scrimmage. Plus, a breakdown of Bo Nix’s progression and a deep dive into the Auburn linebacker corps’ evolution under Gus Malzahn and Kevin Steele.The Auburn Observer Podcast is available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU) and Painter (@paintsharpless) on Twitter.(Photo of QB Bo Nix: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

Josh Vitale of the Montgomery Advertiser joins Justin and Painter to talk about his story on rising preseason camp star Mark-Antony Richards. Plus, they discuss Auburn’s new top cornerback, the 11 a.m. kickoff fallacy and the evolution of the Tigers’ running back room under Gus Malzahn.The Auburn Observer Podcast is now available wherever you enjoy podcasts — Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and more. Rate, review and subscribe to support the show.Follow Justin (@JFergusonAU), Painter (@paintsharpless) and Josh (@JoshVitale) on Twitter.(Photo credit: Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe

(Todd Van Emst/Auburn Athletics)In the first episode of The Auburn Observer podcast, Justin and Painter talk about the latest news involving Auburn football. Plus, they discuss the three-tight end formation and why Anthony Schwartz is in for a massive season.The Auburn Observer will soon be available on all podcast platforms. Meanwhile, just mash the play button above or the “listen in podcast app” option to add it manually. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.auburnobserver.com/subscribe