SEC Spring Check-In: Intrigue surrounds Hugh Freeze's second season at Auburn

Joe Cookby:Joe Cook•04/24/24•

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Before the Texas Longhorns officially join the Southeastern Conference on July 1, Inside Texas is going around the SEC to check in with Texas’ new conference mates for updates on the latest spring storylines, important roster notes, and much more as the Longhorns embark upon life in a new league.

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Cole Pinkston, a reporter for Auburn Live, took the time to answer a few questions about the Tigers as they enter year two under Hugh Freeze. The Longhorns do not face the Tigers this year.

1. How much different will the SEC be in ’24 not only with Texas and Oklahoma joining, but also the elimination of divisions?

It’s going to be different, but the competition in the SEC has always been top-notch, at least at the top. Texas and Oklahoma are probably about to add to that top tier which will make it harder for everyone, of course. The elimination of divisions is interesting. Still not sure what to think of it. It will be tougher to make it to the championship, but there will be more than two teams from the SEC to make the Playoff, if I were to bet.

2. What is the spring storyline to track on offense for the Tigers (transfers, star recruits, coaches coming and going, etc.)?

The biggest thing is Hugh Freeze reclaiming the play-calling. He has had a lot of success as a play caller. He handed that off in his first year while he was lead recruiter in many different recruitments. That will not be the case this season. Derrick Nix was acquired from Ole Miss as the OC and will bring some interesting elements. Cam Coleman could be the freshman phenom of the SEC with Auburn trying to get the passing game going.

3. What’s the spring storyline to track on defense for the Tigers?

Auburn has now added five defensive linemen from the portal. That was the area where things were bare, but are now looking much better. DJ Durkin is an interesting hire. Not sure how he’ll fit yet. There is talent to work with on the Tigers’ defense, but they’re replacing the starters in the entire secondary.

4. Which returner from the 2023 roster was the most important for Auburn?

Offensively, hybrid tight end Rivaldo Fairweather is a weapon. He flashed a ton in 2023 and has gotten rave reviews. Auburn wants to utilize him more this season and should do so. On defense, Jalen McLeod is a big time player at edge. He was banged up a lot last season but was healthy in the last few games and was a terror. He is highly important.

5. Which transfer portal addition was the most important for Auburn?

Isaiah Raikes, an experienced transfer from Texas A&M (and then USC after a spring stint there) was the most important as far as needs. Auburn did not have a good plugger on roster. Raikes is not flashy, but he’s tough to move on the interior. He was a great pickup for Auburn and a recent one.

6. Which class of 2024 signing was the most important for Auburn?

 Without question, 5-star receiver Cam Coleman was a huge one. He may be the biggest recruit Auburn has landed in years. He was electric in the spring game and all throughout spring practice. His ability to catch on quickly was crucial for a receiver room that needs help. So far, all reports have been that he is every bit of the 5-star they thought he was.

7. The game AU fans have circled on the 2024 schedule is…

The answer to this will always be Alabama, but besides the Tide, it has to be Oklahoma. Auburn gets Oklahoma at home and at a good time on the schedule. It’s one that Auburn fans see as a potential toss-up game. If Auburn wins that game, the season will probably be better than expected.

8. What are Tiger fans’ impression of Texas?

Auburn sees Texas as a model of the program it is working to get back to. Steve Sarkisian was 5-7 in his first season at Texas, then 8-5 in year two, then playoff level in year three. Auburn fans think a similar path is possible under Freeze. As far as who Auburn drew between Oklahoma and Texas in 2024, I think all Auburn fans are happy its the Sooners. Texas is seen as a loaded roster with an excellent coach by Auburn fans.

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SEC Spring Check-Ins

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