The second year head coach has regained autonomy over Auburn’s play sheet
A disheartening 6-7 season last year led to many changes for the Auburn offense. Philip Montgomery and Cadillac Williams were both replaced by former Ole Miss coach Derrick Nix. Freeze has stated that he will assume the role of play caller as he did previously in his career. Alongside other personnel changes on the perimeter, and increased production from the trenches, Auburn will look vastly different than a year ago. These are the expectations to have of the first eleven running out onto the field.
Payton Thorne #1 QB
What many forget about Payton is the lack of time he was afforded to learn the system. After transferring from Michigan State in the summer, the Junior had a few weeks at most to learn, his teammates, coaches, and playbook. The previous regime had committed war crimes to the Wide Receiver room leaving Payton with little opportunity for success. This season he will have the same big target in Tight End, Rivaldo Fairweather, alongside two Five Star receivers in Cam Coleman, and Perry Thompson. Marcus Davis also brought in Georgia State transfer, Robert Lewis, and Penn State transfer, Keandre Lambert Smith. All of which are considerable upgrades as pass catchers. Improved offensive line play and a trio of steady SEC backs will complement Payton much better this season.
Jarquez Hunter #27 RB
The Senior power back out of Philadelphia, Mississippi is set to break Auburn’s streak without a 1,000 yard rusher. Off the field issues limited his production early last season, yet he still amassed 909 yards and 7 touchdowns. With a respectable passing attack keeping defenses from stacking the box, Hunter will easily be able to put up All-SEC numbers. He’ll share some touches with both Damari Alston, and Jeremiah Cobb, but without a doubt he’ll be one of the best backs in the country.
Cam Coleman #8 X-Receiver
A top five player in the Class of 2024 and the number one player in the state of Alabama. Coleman possess a big play ability at receiver unseen since the likes of Seth Williams. A big bodied, sure handed receiver is the perfect fit in a Hugh Freeze offense, just ask D.K Metcalf (Seattle Seahawks receiver). An early contender for SEC freshman of the year, Cam can make plays to keep drives alive when needed most.
Keandre Lambert Smith #5 Z-Receiver
The former Penn State receiver is a deep threat at it’s finest. Quick release and a wide catch radius, back shoulder balls belong to him. Great option for taking the top of a defense loading the box. It only takes one play to get him going, Smith is the most explosive receiver on the roster.
Robert Lewis #14 H-Receiver
The transfer from Georgia State was a quiet but key addition. Similar to Coleman, is a physical big body receiver. Possesses nimble footwork with crisp route running. A veteran alongside Smith that will greatly benefit the young receiving room on the Plains.
Rivaldo Fairweather #13 TE
Just a season ago, Fairweather was a top 3 Tight End in the conference. His quick feet, sure hands and strong frame made him a reliable 50/50 ball target. He was Auburn’s stat leader in just about every receiving category you can think of. With a reduced workload and the defense keying on other positions, Fairweather will put up strong numbers and compete with Oscar Delp for the best Tight End in the SEC.
Offensive Line
This is the most interesting group to watch in 2024. Jake Thornton was the best hire Freeze made assembling his original staff and it is paying dividends early. The projected starting lineup of looks strong.
- Percy Lewis #73 LT
- Dillon Wade #52 LG
- Connor Lew #75 C
- Jeremiah Wright #77 RG
- Izavion “Too Tall” Miller #72 RT
True sophomore Connor Lew stands out as an All-American watchlist guy. The freshman put up an incredible performance his freshman season and more of the same is expected. Jeremiah Wright is another guy that if he can bring his consistent mean streak seen earlier in his career, can be a monster on the interior. Izavion and Percy are both solid SEC tackles that can hold a pocket. Dillion Wade was one of the best Auburn had last year and will continue to improve heading into the season.
The improvement across the board is cause for excitement, cautious optimism is the name of the game. It all boils down to whether or not Payton Thorne can replicated his 2021 Michigan State season, that will be the difference between, 7-6, and 9-4.
You can listen to this conversation and more on the The War Rapport’s YouTube channel.
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