The Auburn football coach, team and program have lost their way

What is an Auburn man?

You can answer that question in the abstract by reading from the Auburn Creed, leaning on the core principle as stated in the lead as you picture the countless individuals defined by it.

"I believe that this is a practical world and that I can count only on what I earn. Therefore, I believe in work, hard work."

That's one timeless way to define an Auburn man. At the moment, in the flesh, you can go to the videotape and spot-shadow two heartwarming examples that soared above the Saturday afternoon wreckage that was Arkansas 24, Auburn 14.

Both involved former Auburn linebacker and defensive assistant Travis Williams, who's now the Arkansas defensive coordinator. ...

You watch those small, personal celebrations after a big win on the Plains - by the wrong team, per the new tradition - and you wonder. What happened to the proud Auburn football program that grew real Auburn men like Travis Williams? How far have the Tigers fallen?

This story is a study in contrasts, the thrill of then vs. the agony of now.

Read the full column in the Birmingham Lede.

Read the entire