The Kodi Burns-Chris Todd competition at quarterback isn’t the only unsettled position battle on Auburn’s depth chart.

Seniors Chris Evans and Merrill Johnson have been locked in a competition for the starting job at weakside linebacker since early in spring practice. Linebackers coach James Willis says it’s been extremely difficult to rate one ahead of the other.

“You hate to take away somebody’s good work and say, ‘OK, you’re second-team now,’” Willis said.

Evans started nine games last year, splitting time between middle linebacker and the weakside. He was Auburn’s third-leading tackler, with 64 stops.

Johnson started four games last season and finished with 19 tackles; he also started five games in 2006.

Willis has carefully monitored the duo’s competition throughout spring practice and the preseason, and he still hasn’t decide who will take the first snap. Though both are sure to play extensively regardless of who is named the starter, Willis doesn’t want to rush the decision.

“I have two first-teamers, and we’ll continue to go into the season that way,” he said.

For Willis, the longer the competition continues, the better. He says Evans’ and Johnson’s competition has given both seniors increased intensity, and the two are passing it on to their position-mates.

“It’s every practice, every day,” he said. “That’s good for our room — not only for that position, but for our entire room. Everybody can see it. Sooner or later, that thing becomes contagious.”

Injury report
Wide receiver Montez Billings and defensive end A.J. Greene are both doubtful for Saturday’s game with hamstring injuries. The duo could be the only injured Tigers who don’t play this weekend, according to Tuberville.

Tailback Tristan Davis, who missed more than nine practices with a hamstring injury, might find his role limited. Davis is Auburn’s third-string tailback and top kickoff returner, but Tuberville said he might not play on special teams.

“I don’t know if he’ll return kicks,” Tuberville said. “It just depends on how good he feels that day.

“I’d like for him to be back there. He’s missed so much practice that we’re just trying to get him back on the offense right now.”

Pay-per-view information
Charter Cable customers in the Lee County area can purchase Saturday’s game by calling 1-800-GET-CHARTER and requesting the single-game Auburn-ULM pay-per-view event, for $24.95.

The game is expected to be broadcast on Charter channel 861 in Lee County.

Fans who would rather watch the game in person can still purchase tickets, for $35 each. Tickets are available at http://www.auburntigers.com or by calling the university’s ticket office at 1-800-AUB-1957.

| 737-2561