Although I have problems with Auburn winning the national title, based on my belief that Cam Newton should have been ineligible and that I am getting tired of the SEC, the better team did win. And while Dyer's not-totally-down run was huge, they were driving and would have positioned themselves for a longer FG that Bynum would have nailed. Oregon's defense did yeoman's effort to keep Ducks in the game but they easily could have lost by two TDs. Then again, if they call Cliff Harris's near INT in 2nd Q an INT (Auburn scored TD after retaining ball)and Lavasier Tuinei does not get tripped up heading toward end zone in 4th Q (Ducks ended up with 0 points on that drive), Oregon wins. It was that close.
What's next for these programs? Auburn takes a step back in terms of star power as both Newton and Nick Fairly depart, but they are recruiting well and will be strong for years to come barring any possible sanctions (nothing brewing but NCAA did say investigation was not over). As much as I want to say that they will take a step back, Alabama lost a lot of studs early to the pros, Arkansas is losing Mallett, LSU may have to deal with a coaching change, etc. Oregon needs to figure out a way to play their BCS game in mid December. The Ducks have lost four games total in the past two years but three have come when their opponents--all powerhouses--have had multiple weeks to prepare for their offense. All three of those schools, Boise State, Ohio State and Auburn, get good play from their D-lines and have athletic linebackers. But Chip Kelly will tinker and his QB will gain more experience. They are what they are and played hard. They will be the Pac 10 favorite next season.
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