Auburn's Taylor Fires Up Team; Talks About Importance Of Iron Bowl

We've talked the past few days about the lack of senior leadership on this Auburn team. Many have pointed to a lack of leadership by the old guys as a reason for the meltdowns against Arkansas and Georgia. Personally, I think that's an over simplification. But it's hard to argue that leadership hasn't played some role in the Tigers struggles this season.

It's ironic that this senior class is on the verge of being the most successful to ever wear orange and blue and yet we're talking about their ability to lead. True, there is really no senior leader on this team. You could argue that the Irons brothers, Will Herring, Karibi Dede or Courtney Taylor are the go-to guys, but it has been hard to see where they've rallied the troops this season. Until now.

Reports out of Auburn on Tuesday are that Taylor gave an impassioned speech to the offense that brought tears to his eyes and others. Taylor knows the rivalry better than anyone on the team. He grew up just outside of Tuscaloosa and has been a part of three wins over the Tide.

Center Joe Cope was impressed. He said it was enough to inspire the offense to go out and have it's best practice of the year. Cope said there were few if any mistakes made during the morning session.

That's certainly good to hear. Auburn needs players like Taylor to step up not only at game time but in the locker room. There's no question Auburn is the better football team. The truth is, they should go into Tuscaloosa Saturday and win convincingly.

Something tells me the game will be won this week before either team steps on the field. It will be won based on how prepared each player is between the ears.