Nov. 5, 2016
By Jay Jacobs
On your way into Jordan-Hare Stadium today, many of you stopped outside to take pictures by the statues of Pat, Bo and Cam.
Auburn's Heisman heroes - Pat Sullivan, Bo Jackson and Cam Newton - are popular pregame destinations on the east side of the stadium.
But you won't just find our Tiger trio outside the stadium.
If you've been to a game this season, you know you're just as likely to see Bo inside the stadium, cheering for the Tigers from the sideline.
Cam, the reigning NFL MVP, came back for our season opener, just a few days before his season opener. Like a lot of you today, Cam wore a No. 34 jersey.
And Pat, our first Heisman winner back in 1971, visited with the team one Sunday evening after practice. By the way, since Pat's visit in September, we've won every game we've played. Five in a row. Coincidence? Perhaps. Or maybe it's some of that Sullivan magic I listened to on the radio as a kid.
That's one of the things that makes Auburn so unique. Just like you, our legends long to reconnect with Auburn. To its people and places. To their friends and family, the Auburn Family.
I asked Pat why he comes back to Auburn and how it feels when he's here. This is what he said:
Coming back to Auburn is about the people. It is about seeing many of the friends I have made down through the years. I now have the opportunity to go to some games and practices and it allows me to get to know the current players and coaches. I must admit, I will reminisce about some of the great memories I have as a player and as a coach. I feel the kindness I have always been shown. It gives me great pride being with the Auburn Family.
Cam Newton admires his statue outside Jordan-Hare Stadium at Auburn's 2012 A-Day game." style="width:100%; height:auto;" class="imported_image" legacy-link="http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/aub/sports/m-footbl/auto_a_storywide/12223525.jpeg"> Cam Newton admires his statue outside Jordan-Hare Stadium at Auburn's 2012 A-Day game.
From tailgating to Tiger Walk. From the eagle flight to our outstanding Auburn University Marching Band. Gameday at Auburn is an experience unlike any other.
Many of us bring our children and grandchildren to Auburn games because our parents and grandparents brought us. In doing so, we pass along part of our heritage as Auburn people.
Speaking of statues, if you were here for our record-setting victory over Arkansas, you saw another Auburn legend, Charles Barkley, learn that he'll soon have a statue outside Auburn Arena.
This permanent tribute is our way of showing Charles how much Auburn loves and appreciates him.
After learning he'll soon have a statue at Auburn Arena, Charles Barkley shares a laugh with Coach Bruce Pearl." style="width:100%; height:auto;" class="imported_image" legacy-link="http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/aub/sports/m-footbl/auto_a_storywide/12223537.jpeg"> After learning he'll soon have a statue at Auburn Arena, Charles Barkley shares a laugh with Coach Bruce Pearl.
Seeing Bo break the news on the video board was a sight to behold. On the first play after the announcement, Eli Stove ran 78 yards for a touchdown. Coincidence? Perhaps. Or maybe more Jordan-Hare magic.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Coach Malzahn said, like he has on many occasions this season, "Our crowd was unbelievable."
That is a tribute to you, the loyal Auburn Family. Thank you for being unbelievable. Thank you for giving our student-athletes the greatest home-field advantage in college football.
Today, we also pause to honor the men and women who defend, and have defended, our freedom. Because of their service and sacrifice, at home and abroad, we are all free to pursue our dreams.
To all who have worn the uniform in defense of our country, we say a heartfelt, "Thank you."
God Bless and War Eagle!
Jay