Malzahn: Marshall "embarrassed' after legal run-in

HOOVER, Ala. (AP) - Auburn coach Gus Malzahn said quarterback Nick Marshall will "suffer the consequences" but isn't elaborating on what punishment he'll face after being cited for possession of less than an ounce of marijuana following a traffic stop in Georgia.

The first public penalty: The Tigers' dual-threat quarterback was pulled out of Monday's scheduled appearance at Southeastern Conference media days. As the biggest name on the national runner-up Tigers, Marshall was still a big topic.

"We have high expectations for our players, specifically our quarterback being the face of our program," Malzahn said. "Up until last Friday, Nick has been a model student, model teammate and model citizen. But he made a mistake, and he's going to have to suffer the consequences of that mistake. I'm not saying what that consequence is right now but it will be addressed."

Auburn opens the season against SEC opponent Arkansas on Aug. 30. Asked if Marshall could be suspended for all or part of that game, Malzahn said he's "not at that point yet."

But he added that backup Jeremy Johnson "could start for the majority of the teams in college football. We'll just see what happens."

Marshall came to Auburn by way of junior college after getting dismissed from Georgia as a freshman. Malzahn said he hadn't been in trouble since arriving on the Plains.

On the field, Marshall evolved into a dangerous weapon running the zone read for Auburn. He had 1,976 yards passing and 1,068 rushing last season, leading the Tigers to the national title game where they lost to Florida State on a touchdown with 13 seconds left.

Most of the offseason, the biggest issue facing Marshall was whether he would become more consistent as a passer. Now, he faces more questions about his behavior.

Marshall was pulled over Friday for a window tint violation Friday afternoon in Reynolds, Georgia. He won't have to appear at a Sept. 10 court date if he pays $1,100 in fines.

"He's very regretful, and he's embarrassed that he hurt his teammates, his family, his coaches, all of the above," Malzahn said.