In 2010, Auburn went a perfect 14-0, defeating Oregon in the BCS championship game for a national title. Gene Chizik was the head coach of a Tigers team led by Cam Newton’s historic production in Gus Malzahn’s offense.

These days, Chizik is an analyst for the SEC Network. Malzahn recently recorded a special message for Chizik, shown on “SEC Now.”

“Hey Chiz, just wanted to say congratulations,” Malzahn said. “This is the 10-year anniversary of us winning the national championship under your leadership. I think back at that year, the leadership that you showed our team when we faced great adversity – think about all the close wins that went down at the end – you just did a super job. And then, of course, winning the national championship – as good as it gets.

“So, just wanted to say congratulations. I learned a lot from you that I still keep to this day. I’m a big fan of yours. War Eagle!”

Chizik was appreciative of Malzahn’s kind words, noting that he always pulls for his former offensive coordinator. Chizik will certainly be watching as Malzahn’s Tigers face Kentucky at 11 a.m. CT Saturday.