From the Other Sideline - Auburn
Earlier this week, we did a little Q&A for warblogle.com and today, they returned the favor.
Coming into the season (setting aside the opener), what was the Auburn fan vibe about the program?
Recruiting has everything abuzz right now. Auburn is looking at a top 5, possibly top 3 finish for 2025. While that has nothing to do with this year’s team, any offseason positivity always helps. Of course, the new crop of 4 and 5-star receivers, something that is not normal at Auburn, has given some real-time hope for this season. We are still in Hugh’s honeymoon phase, so the amount of pressure is lesser than the positivity and hope for now.
What were the biggest causes for optimism about the program heading into the season?
Aside from the aforementioned receivers, a veteran QB, set of running backs, and offensive line joined with Hugh Freeze returning to calling plays is what I was most ready to see. So far, the optimism has been warranted.
What are some of the strengths of both sides of the ball and who are the standout players at each level?
He wasn’t used a ton in the opener, but Jarquez Hunter is elite. His backup Damari Alston is close. Thorne to freshman WR Malcolm Simmons may end up being the connection we hear most as freshman WR Cam Coleman gets the most attention from the defense. On the other side of the ball, Eugene Asante had a coming out party in Berkeley last year, and it hasn’t stopped. He cleans up the middle of the field and is the vocal leader of the team.
How satisfied are fans with the Auburn coaching staff?
Last year’s staff was some of Hugh’s quick hires mixed with Auburn royalty. This year’s staff is more of his style. So far, there are no complaints.
What will the program have to do this year to have a successful season?
Outscore everybody. The defense is young and learning. The secondary may give up some deep balls. The offense has a goal of 40 points a game. I think that will do.
What would be considered a successful season at Auburn?
I think most people would be semi-accepting of 8 wins. That seems to be the number. 7 wins just feels like the same again.
How do Auburn fans feel about The Tide and the Georgia Bulldogs?
We live with Alabama fans. It’s a familial hate. Georgia fans are Alabama fans without a real rival to occasionally shut them up. They are vile, disgusting, rude, and just plain mean. Alabama fans are just dumb.
What should Cal fans traveling to Auburn most look forward to?
Toomer’s Corner lemonade, Samford Hall and lawn, the eagle flight, and the 4th quarter light show. You will not meet a nicer fanbase. Expect a lot of people just excited to see somebody from California and welcome them in. Of course, you may have the random gameday drunk that may try to impress his buddies, but we’d rather get to know you, beat you, and then talk about it like friends.
Related:
Ultimate Insider Podcast E89: UC Davis Review, Auburn Preview