AUBURN AUTHORITY

Will Muschamp takes in first practice

James Crepea
Montgomery Advertiser
Auburn defensive coordinator Will Muschamp watches practice on Monday.

AUBURN -- New defensive coordinator Will Muschamp took in his first practice on Monday as Auburn began preparations for No. 18 Wisconsin.

Auburn coach Gus Malzahn said Muschamp "observed" the proceedings, as was planned, and likely would provide some feedback later.

"I'm sure he will (point things out) afterwards," Malzahn said.

Malzahn said his players were "a little rusty" after not taking the field for two weeks, but felt it was similar the first practice between the SEC Championship and BCS National Championship game last season.

Monday's practice was mostly for the younger players, particularly those on scout team, to take more reps than they ordinarily would in a game week.

"I really feel like the rust will be off; we'll come out there (Tuesday), the older guys will have a better practice," Malzahn said. "Young guys, they were very excited and it was good for them. There was some real positive energy. It was good to see those guys do their thing."

Muschamp, who was hired to replace Ellis Johnson on Friday, has yet to decide on his staff.

The firing of Johnson created a temporary void at linebacker coach, which has been filled by defensive analyst and former Auburn linebacker Travis Williams.