THE BIG STORY

Meet Auburn’s new linebacker. . .Quentin Groves.

Moving from defensive end to linebacker may not be a huge adjustment, since Groves was already playing a hybrid role — setting up on the line on some plays, taking a few steps back on others. He mad the switch this week because linebacker Craig Stevens is out with an ankle injury and probably won’t play Saturday against Tennessee Tech. Antonio Coleman has played well in place of Groves at the weak-side end and coaches are eager to keep him on the field as much as possible.

“(Coleman) can have it. I’m a linebacker now,” Groves said.

Groves said he’s working as a strong-side linebacker. When Auburn uses a 4-3 set, Groves would likely play alongside Chris Evans and Tray Blackmon.

“I’m used to it now,” Groves said. “I’ve played on my feet for two years now. It’s pretty easy now. It’s pretty much the same thing. You just have to read runs, key the fullback and use your eyes more.”

Auburn’s game against I-AA Tennessee Tech offers Groves a chance to ease into his new position.

“You have to know your assignment on every play,” he said. “It’s a great week to move to linebacker, I can tell you that. (This game) is before the bullets really start flying against Alabama and Georgia. I’m thanking them for easing me in now rather than just jumping into the fire.”

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