BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The picks are in. On Friday, following the conclusion of SEC Media Days, the SEC released the media's predictions for the upcoming season, and Auburn was well-represented with eight players on the three All-SEC teams.
Offensive lineman Prince Tega Wanogho and defensive lineman Derrick Brown, both part of the trio that represented Auburn at media days Thursday, earned First Team honors. The senior duo started every game last season, and both turned down an opportunity at the next level to finish out their careers on The Plains.
Fellow defensive linemen Nick Coe and Marlon Davidson were selected to the Second Team along with place kicker Anders Carlson, and the Third Team included running back JaTarvious Whitlow, defensive back Daniel Thomas and punter Arryn Siposs.
The Tigers had nine players chosen last year, though none made the First Team.
The media also predicted the final SEC standings and had Auburn finishing fourth in the SEC West behind Alabama, LSU and Texas A&M. The Tigers (1) were one of eight teams to earn at least one vote to win the conference championship.
"I think the potential to win 10 games is there," SEC Network analyst Cole Cubelic said. "It starts up front; experience on both lines; the best defensive line in college football."
"I like Auburn a lot," added fellow SEC Network analyst Greg McElroy. "I always like when Auburn is under the radar a little bit. I think when you have expectations it adds pressure, and sometimes they haven't always responded well to it. This year they're one of those teams that everybody seems to be sleeping on but probably shouldn't be."
The Tigers open the season on Aug. 31 against Oregon at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. ESPN announced Thursday that College Gameday will be there for the game.