[Tuck4Bama]

Tigers' lack of fundamentals shows up against K-State

AUBURN - As Auburn running backs coach Eddie Gran watched the tape of Auburn's 23-13 victory over Kansas State, he saw things to like. And he saw things he says must get better in a hurry if the Tigers are to avoid some unhappy Saturdays.

Sophomore Ben Tate ran for 82 yards on 23 carries. There were times when he looked like a big-time tailback and times when he looked like a first-time starter.

"Fundamentals are huge in what we teach," Gran said. "He graded out good there, but not great. He made all his blitz pickups, but he has to finish better and do the little things better."

Gran said Tate will have some time to watch against South Florida. Redshirt freshman Mario Fannin, who didn't play on offense against Kansas State, is slated to get his chance against the Bulls.

"He's had his best week of practice," Gran said.

Other than two missed holes, Gran said Tate was good with the ball under his arm when he had room to run.

"If we don't get a penalty that negates a 22-yard gain, we have a 100-yard rusher," Gran said. "If he doesn't miss those two holes, we get a 100-yard rusher. That's our goal."

Fullback Carl Stewart ran five times and netted just 4 yards. Gran said Stewart paid the price for missing most of preseason camp with a hamstring injury.

"We need a lot more production out of him if we are going to do what we want to do on offense," Gran said. "You could tell he hadn't been hit. He had seven real days of practice, and it showed up. He never got in one of our scrimmages. It's different when you are going against the scout team than when you get out there on Saturday night."

Opener proves AU not running on all cylinders- al.com