By John Zenor
The Associated Press

AUBURN, Ala. - As a former defensive coordinator, Auburn coach Tommy Tuberville is getting a kick out of finally having an offense that confounds his former peers.

The third-ranked Tigers (7-0, 4-0 Southeastern Conference) have fashioned a dangerous blend of running and passing, pounding and pizazz, under new offensive coordinator Al Borges.

Compared to last year's offense, there's only one real constant: The players. And, in the case of quarterback Jason Campbell and the formerly shaky receivers, even they have undergone quite a transformation.

"How do you play us? Nobody has found that answer yet," Tuberville said. "Either we've gotten stronger or people are playing us wrong."

It's no wonder Tuberville is taking such glee in the metamorphosis rendered by Borges.

The Tigers have ridden the versatile, balanced offense to six blowouts in seven games entering Saturday's visit from Kentucky (1-5, 0-3).

Led by a rejuvenated Campbell and tailbacks Carnell Williams and Ronnie Brown, the Tigers lead the league in total offense, ranking second in running and third in passing and scoring.

Auburn averages eight more points and 72 more yards than last year's team.

"This is the first time since I've been at Auburn that we've really had any imagination offensively," Tuberville said.

After two seasons at Indiana, Borges is in football heaven with a senior quarterback, senior tailbacks and a veteran line and receiving corps.

"After what I've been through in the past few years, it's just such a great feeling to be in a situation where you've got a chance to win some games," said Borges, who also has stints at UCLA, California and Oregon. "It's just great to know that your coaching makes a difference."