After a strong offseason and growing confidence from the coaching staff, Alston is ready to take the reins in Auburn’s backfield
As Auburn gears up for a critical 2025 football season, the focus is turning toward running back Damari Alston. Now entering his third year on the Plains, Alston is expected to be RB1 in Hugh Freeze’s offense. He is a key part of Auburn’s efforts to reclaim its identity on the ground.
Despite recent doubts voiced by some fans and analysts, the coaching staff has consistently backed Alston. Head coach Hugh Freeze singled him out during his first spring at Auburn. He called Alston “a lot better than we gave him credit for.” Jarquez Hunter garnered the early headlines. Meanwhile, Alston quietly earned the trust of the staff. He achieved this with his physicality and work ethic.
The Numbers Back Him Up
In limited snaps last season, Alston carried the ball 52 times for 276 yards — good for a 5.3 yards-per-carry average. That puts him in the same conversation as some of the country’s more efficient backs. By comparison, Jarquez Hunter averaged 6.4 YPC, and national leaders Ashton Jeanty (Boise State) and RJ Harvey (UCF) averaged 6.8 and 7.0, respectively.
Critics often point to Alston’s ball security. Yet, the coaching staff believes those issues stemmed from inconsistent usage. They also think they were caused by the pressure of making something happen in limited reps. With a clear lead role in the backfield this year, Alston is expected to run with more confidence and control.
Offseason Gains, On-Field Expectations
Alston has spent the offseason improving his speed, acceleration, and strength. He’s also been working on his patience and vision — traits that separate good backs from great ones. The coaching staff has praised his progress, and Alston himself feels confident heading into the season.
With an improved offensive line and a better grasp of the offensive system, Alston is poised for a breakout year. And if he gets a full workload, north of 200 carries, he could easily be among the SEC’s top rushers.
Balanced Offense, Heavy Ground Game
There’s a common misconception that Hugh Freeze’s offenses abandon the run. Historically, Freeze has leaned run-heavy. His teams are at their best when often operating around a 55:45 run-to-pass ratio.
That bodes well for Alston, especially considering the amount of talent Auburn has added at wide receiver. With playmakers like Cam Coleman, Perry Thompson, and Eric Singleton, opposing defenses will be forced to respect the pass. This will open lanes for Alston in the running game.
Auburn Must Finish Drives in 2025
Last season, Auburn struggled in the red zone. They were among the SEC leaders in explosive plays but couldn’t finish drives consistently. Fixing that starts with a reliable running game. That means giving the ball to a running back. The player can pick up short-yardage gains. They can also punch it in near the goal line.
Damari Alston has the potential to be that back.
Auburn must control the clock if it wants to hit eight wins or more this year. It also needs to convert on third down. Additionally, the team must finish in the red zone. That starts with Alston and a renewed commitment to running the football.
Final Word
Damari Alston might not have come to Auburn with the same hype as others. He’s earned the chance to be the guy. If he stays healthy, he could be the engine that drives Auburn. Getting the carries is key for Auburn to have its best season in years.