BULLDOG BEAT: South’s oldest rivalry overshadowed by Newton saga

Georgia will take on Auburn Saturday in yet another riveting chapter in the history of the Deep South’s oldest rivalry. But, despite the regionl and national importance of the game, it isn’t the game that is capturing the nation’s attention at this point. The biggest story going in is not the competitiveness of the series (one separates them through 133 meetings) or the deep ties between the two (each has had graduates of the other’s institution coaching them) or even the SEC and national title implications on the line. Everyone is instead talking about the eligibility of Tiger QB Cam Newton.

Newton, who, according to most, is leading the Heisman race, suddenly is questionable for the game as rumors are swirling about whether or not Newton’s father was shopping him to prospective college programs. Auburn coach Gene Chizik said on Wednesday that the allegations were “garbage and that Newton was definitely starting Sat. But new information has apparently surfaced that the FBI is now involved and Newton may be forced to sit.

Getting to the on-the-field action, Auburn’s offense is one of the most potent in the nation. The Tigers are sixth nationally in total offense and scoring offense. Newton ranks 10th nationally in rushing and has accounted for 35 touchdowns this season. The junior from College Park can become the first SEC QB to throw for 2,000 yards and rush for 1,000 in one season by passing for 110 yards Sat.

“Well, you can’t simulate him,” Richt said. “He’s one of a kind. We don’t have the body type to be Cam Newton. We just have to make sure we take care of all the looks and the pace as close as we can. We couldn’t simulate (Tim) Tebow, either. It’s the same kind of thing.”

However, the Tigers seem to have trouble stopping people. Auburn is ranked eighth in the conference in scoring defense and is allowing more than 24 points per game. The Georgia offense has scored more than 30 points in five consecutive games, a school record, and will look to keep the streak going. If they do, the Dawgs have a fighting chance against the No. 2 Tigers.

The big question tomorrow will be whether or not Newton suits up. Auburn is no longer commenting on the situation which is possibly more incriminating than any evidence than has been brought forth yet. Either way, the nation will likely be more interested in the Newton situation than they will the outcome of the game.