With a new defensive coordinator, last year's defensive line performed well under the pressure of learning a new system. This year's line returns three starters, including a defensive end that needs four sacks to become Auburn's all-time sack leader.

In his first year as defensive coordinator, Will Muschamp was pleased with how his defensive unit responded to the tough transition of learning new schemes and new terminology. At times though, the defense played inconsistent and gave up some big plays, especially in the lopsided losses to Arkansas and Georgia. On a positive note, the defense was able to create turnovers in the opponent's plus zone which were converted into points by the offense. Muschamp believes the depth and experience on this year's line will help the unit be more consistent throughout the entire season. Quentin Groves looks to become Auburn's all-time sack leader in 2007. (Photo courtesy of autigers.com) The line got a big boost in the offseason when defensive end Quentin Groves decided to forgo the NFL Draft and return for his senior year. He was projected as a mid-round pick - between the third and fifth rounds of the seven-round draft. By staying, Groves can work on getting better at stopping the run which he believes will improve his status in next year's draft. Last season, Groves had 37 tackles, a career-high 9½ sacks and a team-leading 12 tackles for a loss. With 23 sacks in his career, he needs just four more to move into first place on Auburn's career sacks list. As a versatile player, Groves will see playing time at linebacker when Auburn uses a 3-4 defense in blitzing situations. The defense will be centered around the talented senior and the coaches expect him to be one of the dominating players in college football this year. Sophomore Sen'Derrick Marks will be lined up at the other defensive end spot but he'll play more as a defensive tackle, especially in pass-rush situations. Marks played in all 13 games last year as an effective pass rusher in the 4-3 defensive scheme. He had 38 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and 10 ½ tackles for a loss. Antonio Coleman and Michael Goggans are the backups at defensive end. Coleman had 18 tackles and six quarterback hurries in a backup role last season while Goggans is moving back to his natural position after trying out tight end in 2006. Josh Thompson starts again at tackle for the Tigers. (Photo courtesy of autigers.com) The two tackle positions belong to senior Josh Thompson and junior Pat Sims. Thompson started all 13 games at tackle last year and led Auburn linemen in tackles with 43. Sims started out slow as a backup last year but saw improvement as the season progressed. His best game came in Auburn's 17-14 Cotton Bowl victory over Nebraska when he posted three tackles and a sack. Reserve tackles Tez Doolittle, Mike Blanc, Jermarcus Ricks, and Zach Clayton will all have a chance to play when Muschamp employs the 3-4 defensive scheme against teams that like to run and in 4-3 packages against West Coast offenses. Phil Marion Coming next week: With Will Herring and Karibe Dede gone, Tray Blackmon and Merrill Johnson will be the leaders for Auburn's linebackers. Cox Is Healthy, Ready To Lead Offense In 2007 Auburn's Backfield Has Wealth Of Talent Offensive Line Is Work In Progress