Which Auburn Football Position Groups Are Poised for a Breakout Season in 2025?
Heading into the 2025 college football season, the Auburn Tigers football program is poised for a potential resurgence under head coach Hugh Freeze. After a period of instability and transition, Auburn has made key adjustments in both their coaching staff and player development system, which sets the stage for a breakout season in 2025. As the Tigers prepare for what promises to be an exciting year, certain position groups on the roster are positioned for significant improvement and could emerge as key factors in Auburn’s success.
The 2025 season will be a critical one for Hugh Freeze, who is in the midst of reshaping the Tigers into a contender once again. Auburn’s performance will depend heavily on several position groups stepping up, particularly as the Tigers face some of the toughest competition in the SEC. Let’s break down which Auburn position groups are poised for a breakout season in 2025, examining the key players, potential areas of improvement, and the overall outlook for each group.
1. Quarterback Position: A New Era Under Hugh Freeze
Arguably the most crucial position for Auburn’s success in 2025 is the quarterback position. With the departure of Robbie Ashford, the team is entering a new era under the guidance of Hugh Freeze, who has a proven track record of developing quarterbacks. Freeze’s ability to mold quarterbacks was a key reason for his success at previous stops, and Auburn fans are hoping he can work the same magic with whichever quarterback earns the starting job.
Holden Geriner, a redshirt freshman who has shown flashes of potential in limited action, is expected to be a key contender for the starting role. Geriner, a former four-star recruit, has the physical tools and football IQ to become a star for the Tigers. His ability to read defenses, his arm strength, and his leadership qualities are some of the reasons why many are optimistic about his future under Freeze’s tutelage.
Additionally, T.J. Finley, a senior with significant game experience, could also challenge for the starting position. Finley’s experience and familiarity with SEC defenses could give him an edge as the Tigers look for consistency at the quarterback spot. Zach Calzada, another veteran quarterback who transferred to Auburn, could also factor into the competition.
With a new offensive scheme and a revamped quarterback room, the competition will likely be fierce. Hugh Freeze’s system is designed to elevate the play of his quarterbacks, and whichever player wins the starting job will have a significant impact on the team’s offensive success. If Geriner or Finley can establish themselves as reliable leaders, the Tigers could see significant improvements in their passing game.
2. Offensive Line: The Key to Auburn’s Offensive Success
The offensive line is often regarded as the most important position group for any football team, and for Auburn, this group is crucial in ensuring the success of their offense in 2025. The Tigers have struggled with inconsistency on the offensive line in recent years, but with Hugh Freeze at the helm, there is hope that this unit will take a major step forward.
Auburn’s offensive line in 2025 has the potential to be one of the best in the SEC. The team returns several experienced players, including Brandon Council and Tate Johnson, who are expected to be key anchors in the trenches. These veterans provide the leadership and stability needed to help the Tigers improve in both run blocking and pass protection.
One player to watch is Cameron Stutz, a highly talented offensive tackle who has the potential to break out in 2025. Stutz has been a key contributor for Auburn in recent seasons, and with another year of development under his belt, he is expected to take on a more prominent role in the offensive line.
Additionally, Auburn has made strides in recruiting, bringing in some highly touted offensive linemen in the 2024 and 2025 classes. Bradyn Joiner, a promising freshman, could make an immediate impact, providing depth and competition at the guard and tackle positions.
If Auburn can establish a dominant offensive line in 2025, it would have a ripple effect on the entire offense. A stronger offensive line would not only provide more time for quarterbacks to throw but also open up lanes for the running backs to find success. Given Hugh Freeze’s emphasis on balanced offensive play, the offensive line will be key to the Tigers’ ability to control the game and put up points.
3. Running Back Position: The Return of Power Running
One of the brightest spots for Auburn in 2025 is their running back group, which is poised for a breakout season. Auburn has a storied tradition of producing elite running backs, and the 2025 season could see the return of a potent rushing attack that powers the offense and sets the tone for the rest of the team.
The Tigers return several talented running backs, including Jarquez Hunter, a powerful and explosive back who has been a consistent contributor over the past two seasons. Hunter possesses great vision, balance, and speed, and he will be counted on to be a workhorse for the Tigers in 2025. With Hugh Freeze’s emphasis on running the football and wearing down opposing defenses, Hunter will likely be a key piece in the offense.
In addition to Hunter, Damari Alston is another running back to watch. Alston, a sophomore with a lot of upside, showed promise in limited action during his freshman season. He brings a different skill set to the table, with quickness and elusiveness in the open field. Alston’s ability to complement Hunter in the backfield will provide Auburn with a dynamic 1-2 punch at running back.
The addition of freshman Brian Cobb could also add depth and competition to the running back room. If Cobb can adapt to the college game quickly, he could be a key contributor in the rotation, spelling Hunter and Alston when needed.
If Auburn can establish a consistent and powerful running game in 2025, it will take a lot of pressure off the quarterback position and help the Tigers control the clock, making their offense more balanced and difficult to stop. A strong running game is essential for Auburn’s success, especially in the SEC, where dominating the line of scrimmage often determines the outcome of games.
4. Wide Receiver Group: A New Era of Playmakers
The wide receiver group at Auburn is another area of the team that is poised for significant improvement in 2025. Auburn has often struggled to find consistency at the receiver position, but the addition of key players and a new offensive system under Hugh Freeze should bring a new level of production to the Tigers’ passing attack.
Koy Moore, a talented wide receiver with excellent route-running ability and hands, is expected to take on a larger role in 2025. Moore has shown flashes of his potential in previous seasons and will be a key weapon in the passing game. With Freeze’s offensive scheme focusing on quick, efficient throws, Moore’s ability to get open and make plays after the catch will be crucial for the Tigers.
Additionally, Jay Fair and Omari Kelly, both young receivers with high ceilings, will look to make a name for themselves in 2025. Fair has great speed and agility, while Kelly has the size and physicality to be a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. If these two players can develop chemistry with Auburn’s quarterbacks, they could provide the Tigers with a dynamic receiving corps capable of stretching the field and creating big-play opportunities.
The addition of Peyton Kirkland, a highly rated wide receiver from the 2025 recruiting class, adds even more potential to the group. Kirkland is a physical and versatile receiver who can line up both inside and outside, providing Auburn with a versatile weapon in the passing game.
Auburn’s wide receiver group in 2025 has the potential to be much more explosive and consistent than in recent years. If Freeze can unlock the full potential of his playmakers, the Tigers’ passing attack could take a significant leap forward, opening up opportunities for the entire offense.
5. Defensive Line: Disrupting Opponents Up Front
The defensive line is one of the most important groups for Auburn in 2025, as the Tigers look to improve their ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Defensive coordinator Ron Roberts has a history of developing aggressive defensive fronts, and Auburn’s defensive line could be poised for a breakout season if they can take advantage of their talent and depth.
Jalen Carter, one of the top defensive linemen in the SEC, returns for the Tigers and is expected to lead the way in 2025. Carter’s ability to collapse the pocket, stop the run, and apply pressure on the quarterback makes him a key player for Auburn’s defense. Alongside Carter, Marcus Harris and Eku Leota provide a strong veteran presence in the trenches, and their leadership will be crucial for Auburn’s success.
In addition to the experienced players, Auburn has brought in some exciting young talent along the defensive line. Jevon Brown, a highly rated recruit in the 2025 class, could make an immediate impact with his size and athleticism. His ability to penetrate the backfield and disrupt plays will be a huge asset to the Tigers.
If Auburn’s defensive line can generate consistent pressure on the quarterback and shut down the running game, they will be a major force in the SEC. With the right development, the Tigers’ defensive line could be one of the most formidable in the conference, setting the tone for the defense as a whole.
Auburn’s Path to a Breakout Season in 2025
Heading into the 2025 season, several position groups on Auburn’s football team are poised for significant improvement and could play a pivotal role in the team’s success. The quarterback position, offensive line, running back group, wide receiver corps, and defensive line all have the potential to break out and help propel Auburn back to national relevance.
With Hugh Freeze at the helm, the Tigers are well-positioned to make a push for the top of the SEC standings, and the 2025 season could be the beginning of a new era of success for Auburn football. If the Tigers can get