AUBURN, Ala. — Auburn defensive linemen Nosa Eguae and Dee Ford had very different experiences during their first year on the Plains.

The former watched from the sidelines, his foot in a protective boot most of the season; the latter was thrown into the fire, inexperienced and undersized.

The Tigers are counting on much more in year two, hoping the duo can provide much-needed depth at defensive end, a position weakened by the graduation of SEC sacks leader Antonio Coleman.

“We just have to get them better even faster,” Auburn defensive line coach Tracy Rocker said. “I feel good about them right now.”