For the first time since 2020, Auburn football will enter a new season without its leading rusher from the previous campaign. This development marks a significant shift for a program that has traditionally relied on a strong ground game to anchor its offense. The absence of last year’s top ball-carrier raises questions about how the Tigers will adapt, who will step up, and whether the team can maintain its offensive identity under head coach Hugh Freeze.
### **A Look Back at Auburn’s Recent Running Back Legacy**
Auburn has long been known as a program that produces elite running backs. From the days of Bo Jackson and Cadillac Williams to more recent stars like Kerryon Johnson and Tank Bigsby, the Tigers have consistently fielded dynamic rushers capable of carrying the offense. Even in down years, the running game has often been a bright spot, providing stability and explosiveness.
In 2020, Auburn’s leading rusher was Tank Bigsby, who burst onto the scene as a freshman with 834 yards. Bigsby returned in 2021 and 2022, maintaining his role as the team’s primary back before declaring for the NFL Draft. His departure left big shoes to fill, but Auburn managed to find production from Jarquez Hunter, who became the team’s leading rusher in 2023. However, with Hunter now also moving on—whether due to graduation, transfer, or NFL aspirations—the Tigers face a rare scenario where they must replace their top rusher for the first time in four years.
### **Why This Situation Is Unusual for Auburn**
Auburn’s ability to retain its leading rusher in recent years has been a key factor in maintaining offensive consistency. Tank Bigsby’s three-year tenure as the feature back provided stability, and Jarquez Hunter’s emergence ensured there was no major drop-off in production. But now, with neither returning, the Tigers must find a new workhorse in the backfield—a challenge they haven’t faced since the transition from JaTarvious Whitlow to Bigsby in 2020.
This situation is particularly noteworthy because Auburn’s offense has historically leaned heavily on the run. Even as college football has evolved into a more pass-heavy game, the Tigers have remained committed to establishing the ground attack. Losing a proven rusher means the coaching staff must either develop a new star or adjust its offensive philosophy—something that could define the team’s success in 2024.
### **Potential Candidates to Fill the Void**
With last year’s leading rusher out of the picture, Auburn will turn to a mix of returning players, transfers, and freshmen to carry the load. Several names stand out as potential candidates to take over as the primary ball-carrier:
1. **Damari Alston** – A highly touted recruit in the 2022 class, Alston has shown flashes of potential in limited action. With good vision and physicality, he could be next in line for a breakout season.
2. **Jeremiah Cobb** – A talented freshman from the 2023 class, Cobb possesses elite speed and could carve out a larger role in his second year with the program.
3. **Brian Battie (Transfer)** – The South Florida transfer brings experience and explosiveness, having rushed for over 1,000 yards in 2022. He could provide an immediate impact.
4. **Incoming Freshmen** – Auburn has recruited well at running back, and a newcomer could emerge as a surprise contributor, much like Bigsby did in 2020.
While none of these players have yet proven themselves as every-down SEC backs, the competition in fall camp will determine who earns the lion’s share of carries. Hugh Freeze has a track record of developing offensive talent, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see one of these backs rise to the occasion.
### **How the Offense Might Adjust**
Losing a top rusher doesn’t just affect the running game—it impacts the entire offense. Auburn may need to tweak its scheme to account for a less experienced backfield. Here are a few possible adjustments:
– **Increased Committee Approach** – Rather than relying on one bell-cow back, the Tigers might distribute carries more evenly among multiple runners, keeping fresh legs on the field.
– **More Emphasis on the Passing Game** – With quarterback Payton Thorne returning, Auburn could lean more on the air attack, using short passes and screens to supplement the ground game.
– **Creative Play-Calling** – Hugh Freeze is known for his offensive ingenuity, so expect some new wrinkles—whether it’s jet sweeps, wildcat formations, or RPO-heavy schemes—to keep defenses guessing.
### **Historical Precedent: Can Auburn Overcome This Challenge?**
While this is the first time since 2020 that Auburn hasn’t returned its leading rusher, the program has faced similar transitions in the past—and often thrived. When Kerryon Johnson left after 2017, the Tigers turned to JaTarvious Whitlow, who rushed for nearly 800 yards as a freshman. When Whitlow transferred, Tank Bigsby stepped in immediately as a star.
The key has always been recruiting and development. Auburn has consistently reloaded at running back rather than rebuilding, thanks to strong evaluations and player development. If history is any indication, the Tigers will find a way to keep the ground game productive.
### **The Bigger Picture: What This Means for the 2024 Season**
Auburn’s success in 2024 will depend on more than just replacing its leading rusher. The offensive line must improve, the quarterback play must be consistent, and the defense will need to hold its own in SEC play. However, the running game has long been the heartbeat of Auburn football, and if the Tigers struggle to establish it, the entire offense could sputter.
On the flip side, if a new back emerges as a star—much like Bigsby or Hunter did—Auburn could surprise people. The SEC is always unpredictable, and a strong rushing attack can be the great equalizer in close games.
### **Final Thoughts**
Auburn football is entering unfamiliar territory by not bringing back its top rusher from the previous season for the first time in four years. While this presents a challenge, it also offers an opportunity for a new playmaker to emerge. Whether through a returning player, a transfer, or a freshman, the Tigers will need someone to step up and carry the load.
Under Hugh Freeze’s leadership, Auburn has the coaching and recruiting prowess to navigate this transition successfully. If history is any guide, don’t be surprised if the Tigers once again find a way to field a dominant rushing attack—even without last year’s leading rusher. The 2024 season will reveal whether Auburn can continue its tradition of excellence on the ground or if this marks the beginning of a new offensive identity. Either way, it’s a storyline worth watching closely.
