Undercover Barner: Nah.

I mean, what is there to say about Auburn’s dismal performance in Athens this past Saturday?

Much like last year, this year’s game against a struggling Georgia squad could arguably determine Auburn’s bowl tier. Unlike last year, however, Auburn doesn’t have the luxury of cruising into that game at Jordan-Hare. It’ll face Kirby Smart’s frustrated team between those blessed hedges and likely get the Bulldogs’ best shot. To put it mildly, this is not a game I’m comfortable with.

Last week, I was cautiously optimistic that Auburn could finally beat a Georgia team it was supposed to. But even acknowledging the similarities between that and last year’s game, I had no idea history would repeat itself quite so vividly. Auburn’s head coach and/or offensive coordinator* let Auburn down. They especially let down the Auburn’s defense, who gave up TWO FIELD GOALS the entire game.

Ghosts of last year aside, more than anything, it reminded me of the Clemson game. Not the multiple quarterback problem, because our problem was just the opposite**, really. But the sense of panic at the top that hamstrung the offense with bizarre play-calling. The offensive effort was there, it was just misplaced. Saturday was truly a perfect storm of awful: injuries, drops, lucky bounces going the other way. But there’s excuse for Auburn not to be able to score two touchdowns against that team, and that’s on the coaches.

Honestly, I just wanted to hug the Defense for standing the hell up and putting the team on their backs. They were asked to do the impossible on Saturday, they almost did, and they never complained. I’m going to miss Carl and Montravius*** more than my own future children. Third downs are still a problem, but Auburn’s defensive line is absolutely scary, and it was just about the only bright spot in a whole week of horribles.

Anywho, there’s not really anything else I can say that Auburn fans super want to read this week, so here’s the second half of this column:

Screenshot courtesy of espn.com

Regardless, I will always believe in Auburn and love it.

Until next time—War eagle.

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*I think we witnessed the return of the dreaded GUSHLEE double-headed play-calling monster. Perfect timing, I think.

**Instead of too many quarterbacks, we had one half of a quarterback and no backup plan.

***I truly hope they join Dee Ford atop the NFL sack leaders list one day. My boys.