Auburn Football: Five reasons why Tigers will win 2017 national title

3. Offensive line

Auburn’s offensive line can compete with any other team in the country, including Alabama. Braden Smith was a third team All-American selection last season at right guard. He will slide out this season to right tackle as Auburn moves to a more versatile offense. Smith is a versatile, athletic lineman.

Smith and senior center Austin Golson will be the leaders of the unit. Golson is also versatile, having started nine games at center in 2016 and also starting four games at left tackle. Darius James returns at left tackle after making nine starts at the position last season.

Wilson Bell joins the line after 18 starts in his time at Florida State. Mike Horton rounds out the group at right guard after playing as a reserve last season in every game. Guard Marquel Harrell and highly touted freshman Calvin Ashley should provide relief as key reserves.

The program has developed a reputation for producing great run blockers, but this season the Tigers will need lineman who can both pass protect and run block. The team appears capable of doing so, at least on paper.