This is an opinion column

Dr. Christopher B. Roberts is different. That’s what they said from the start. The unsolicited testimonials began even before he took office. One after another, Auburn family members of long standing came forward to share their good feelings about the incoming president and how he would set a new course for the front porch of the university, better known as Auburn Athletics.

The dean of the school’s Samuel Ginn College of Engineering may be no stranger to the Plains, they said, given his 28 years there overall, but his leadership style might be a shock to the system.

Their message, in short: Just watch.

They were not kidding.

Athletics Director Allen Greene found that out when Roberts refused to extend his soon-to-expire contract and allowed him to walk out the door in August on the eve of the football season.