Anders Carlson and Oscar Chapman lead the Auburn Football Specialists, looking to make their impact on the 2022.
An often overlooked portion of football is the third phase, Special Teams. The War Rapport Crew discusses the Kickers, Punters, and Long Snappers for Auburn Football. This unit has had mixed results this past season. Can one of the more experienced units turn out to be one of the strongest on the team?
This is the senior year for Anders Carlson, returning from a late season injury (torn ACL) during the Mississippi State game. The 2021 season had its ups and downs for Carlson. It has been speculated that Sophomore Kicker, Evan McGuire, may be handling kickoff duties this season to allow Carlson to focus on place kicking. We will see if Carlson can return to form after the injury and be the consistent presence that Auburn needs in the Field Goal and PAT unit.
Oscar Chapman saw some success in 2021 and was ranked 2nd in the Conference in Yards Per Punt (44.1) and 2nd Team All-SEC Honors from Pro Football Focus. He was voted to the All-SEC Pre-Season 2nd team by both the Coaches and Media heading into this season. Could there be a Ray Guy Award for Chapman in the near future?
There is depth in the unit as well. With the recent departure of Ben Patton to the transfer portal, the door is open for back up kicking duties. The aforementioned, Evan McGuire has experience in Punting and Place Kicking and can fill in admirably, if needed. Also, there is a dynamic freshman incoming that has Auburn fans buzzing. The No.1 Rated Kicker in the country, Alex McPherson is on the Plains and ready to contribute. I anticipate a solid performance from this Specialist in the fall and maybe some award finalists in the group.
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