College Football 2011: 10 Expectations for Gene Chizik and Auburn in 2011

Expectations for Auburn Tigers coach Gene Chizik were most likely at an all-time low as a newly-hired coach in 2008.

Two years later, Chizik has the chance to become a legend or a Larry Coker-type. The Auburn faithful are quick to announce their joy, but they also add a quick quip to make sure everyone knows the fan base hasn’t laid the red carpet just yet.

Going into 2011, there doesn’t appear to be a repeat title run on the horizon, but a winning season and possible New Year’s Day bowl could be in the cards. A lot of hard work and time have to pass before the Tigers are bowl eligible, but the expectations are there.

Will Chizik continue with another winning season? Will the defense improve for the third straight year? How will the staff adjust to coaching mostly veterans to all underclassmen?

These are hurdles that have to be crossed, and the fan base will be watching every step of the way. With that said, here are 10 expectations for Chizik and the Auburn Tigers in 2011.

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