The Auburn Tigers enter the 2025 college football season as one of the more intriguing teams in the Southeastern Conference—not because of what they were last year, but because of what they might become. The Tigers underwent significant offseason changes, yet held onto a core group of players who embody the toughness and upside the program hopes to lean on. Among them, center Connor Lew stands out, not just as a returning starter on the offensive line but as a symbol of continuity in a program seeking balance between revitalization and stability. In an era where college football rosters are increasingly fluid—marked by NIL deals, the transfer portal, and coaching reshuffles—Auburn’s retention of Lew could end up being one of their most critical offseason wins.
Connor Lew isn’t the flashiest name on the roster, nor is he one who typically makes the headlines. But for those who understand the importance of line play, particularly in the SEC where trench battles often decide conference titles, his presence is massive. Lew brings with him both the mental sharpness and physical readiness needed to anchor the line in one of college football’s toughest environments. He stepped into the role last season and didn’t look back, earning the respect of coaches, teammates, and opponents with every snap. And now, with another year of experience under his belt and a new offensive scheme being installed, Lew becomes the glue keeping this offense on track amid a sea of changes.
Auburn’s offseason wasn’t just about tweaks—it was an overhaul. Coaching additions and subtractions were made. There were changes at key skill positions. The quarterback room, which had already been under scrutiny, saw new competition arrive. Wide receiver depth was addressed aggressively in recruiting. And on defense, a few big losses required quick replacements through the portal and the development of underclassmen. This wasn’t just spring cleaning; this was a calculated restructure aimed at bridging the gap between Auburn and the upper echelon of SEC contenders. But all of these moves could fall flat if there isn’t consistency in the trenches. That’s where Connor Lew comes in.
His return to the lineup isn’t just about stability—it’s about identity. Auburn’s best teams, historically, have been physical. Whether it was the hard-nosed running of Bo Jackson, the read-option power of Cam Newton, or the dual-threat success of Nick Marshall, the Tigers have always thrived when their offensive line took ownership of the game. Last year’s line showed promise in spurts, but Lew’s growth stood out as a positive development in an otherwise inconsistent unit. Coaches raved about his football IQ, ability to read fronts, communicate adjustments, and physically hold his own against some of the best defensive tackles in the country. For Auburn to take a step forward this year, they’ll need Lew to do even more—both as a blocker and as a leader.
Auburn’s quarterback situation remains unresolved, though there’s optimism around several options. Regardless of who wins the job, having a reliable center makes life a whole lot easier. Lew’s ability to handle protections and read blitzes allows the quarterback more time and mental space to focus on their responsibilities. That trickle-down effect is real. A confident quarterback is often a productive one, and that confidence starts with trust in the offensive line—particularly the center. Add in the fact that the SEC is stacked with elite pass rushers and aggressive defensive play callers, and the need for a cerebral, rock-solid center becomes even more evident.
One of the most overlooked aspects of Connor Lew’s game is his athleticism. He’s not just a space-eater. Auburn uses him on pulls, screens, and zone schemes that require him to get out in space and find second-level defenders. His feet are light for a player of his size, and his technique has steadily improved since arriving on campus. What’s more, he seems to be growing into a vocal leadership role—something that isn’t always easy for a lineman. But Lew’s work ethic and steady presence have made him a voice worth listening to in the locker room. Coaches have pointed out that he’s one of the first in the building and one of the last to leave. That kind of example sets the tone for a team looking to reestablish itself.
Auburn’s running game, which will likely be a focal point under the revamped offensive staff, also benefits directly from Lew’s return. The Tigers want to impose their will at the line of scrimmage, and having a dependable center who can set angles and create movement is a huge advantage. Running backs, especially younger ones, thrive when the interior line holds up and creates daylight in tight spaces. If Auburn can get consistent production up the middle, it opens up everything else—play-action passes, bootlegs, and even tempo changes. Connor Lew won’t get credit in the box score for that 60-yard touchdown run or a pinpoint deep ball, but in many cases, his block is what makes it possible.
Defensively, Auburn is undergoing a bit of a transition as well, with new personnel and some schematic shifts. That’s another reason why a stable offensive line is important—they can help control time of possession, keep the defense fresh, and limit the number of possessions the opposition gets. It’s an indirect but significant way Lew and the offense can contribute to the overall success of the team. If Auburn can grind out drives, wear down opposing defenses, and control the pace of the game, they’ll give themselves a real shot against just about anyone.
There’s also something to be said about program culture and the role Lew plays in it. Amid transfers, coaching carousel rumors, and the constant pressure to win now, Auburn has managed to keep a few players who simply love the school and want to win there. Lew appears to be one of those guys. He isn’t chasing headlines or NFL Draft buzz—though both could come if he continues to develop. He’s focused on being a foundational piece in Auburn’s return to relevance. And that commitment resonates. Young players look up to it. Coaches appreciate it. Fans rally around it.
It’s easy to get swept up in the hype of recruiting rankings, transfer portal wins, and quarterback controversies. Those stories dominate headlines and spark debate. But often, it’s the unheralded veterans like Connor Lew who determine how far a team can go. The flashy new five-star can make plays, yes. But can he do it consistently without reliable protection? Can a rebuilt defense hold up if they’re constantly being put back on the field because the offense can’t move the chains? These are the kinds of questions Auburn hopes Lew helps them answer with a resounding “yes.”
This year, the expectations around Auburn aren’t sky-high, but they are rising. The SEC West remains a brutal division, and there’s no margin for error. Teams like Alabama, LSU, and Texas A\&M aren’t going to take a step back. Auburn doesn’t need to beat them all, but they do need to close the gap—and that starts with being competitive in the trenches. Every coaching staff will say games are won and lost on the line of scrimmage. This year, Auburn has a center capable of tipping that balance in their favor.
Lew’s role might expand even further as the season progresses. Injuries, matchups, and game scripts can all create unexpected situations where leadership is needed. Whether it’s calming a jittery quarterback in a hostile road environment or picking up a confused offensive tackle on a tricky stunt, the job never ends for a center. And it’s a job Connor Lew embraces. He doesn’t seek the spotlight, but if Auburn’s offense takes off this year, don’t be surprised if his name starts getting more attention.
It’s also worth noting that Lew’s long-term impact on the program could be felt even beyond this season. Offensive linemen often act as mentors to younger players because their development curve is longer. A freshman lineman likely isn’t ready to start right away, but having a guy like Lew to learn from can accelerate that process. And when a team is trying to build sustained success, that kind of internal development pipeline becomes vital. Lew is helping to lay the groundwork for future offensive lines that can uphold Auburn’s physical brand of football.
So while the offseason has been marked by headlines about new quarterbacks, high-profile recruits, and coaching hires, there’s something steadying about knowing Auburn has a proven center returning. The Tigers may have a lot of questions to answer, but Connor Lew isn’t one of them. He’s an answer—a steadying force who can help Auburn navigate the uncertainties of a new season.
In the weeks leading up to kickoff, all eyes will be on Auburn’s high-impact newcomers and breakout candidates. But when the ball is snapped on first down, the play begins with Connor Lew. He’s the first touch, the first read, and often the first collision. In the most literal and figurative ways, the offense runs through him. And in a season full of unknowns, that makes him one of the most important players on the roster. If Auburn surprises people this year, don’t overlook the quiet, composed center who made it all possible.
