Auburn’s Running Back Room: The Overlooked Stars of the SEC

As the 2024 college football season approaches, all eyes are on Auburn’s revamped wide receiver room. But amidst the hype, one position group has been flying under the radar: the running backs. Led by senior Jarquez Hunter, the SEC’s leading returning rusher, Auburn’s stable of running backs is poised to make a significant impact this season.

A Lack of Attention

Coach Hugh Freeze expressed surprise at the lack of attention his running backs have received, but Hunter is not having it. The senior running back called the lack of attention “very disrespectful,” and it’s hard to blame him. After all, Hunter rushed for 909 yards and seven touchdowns in 2023, earning him a spot as one of the top returning rushers in the SEC.

The Auburn running backs are ready to make their mark this season.

A Three-Headed Monster

Joining Hunter in the running back room are junior Damari Alston and sophomore Jeremiah Cobb. Both players are expected to see plenty of reps this season, with Freeze noting that it will be “equal reps between those three.” Alston, who missed a handful of games last season due to a shoulder injury, is looking to bounce back strong. Cobb, on the other hand, is bigger, stronger, and faster than ever before.

“Not that he didn’t before, but man, he’s starting to look like an SEC running back,” Freeze said of Cobb. “He’s bigger, stronger, probably faster.”

A Focus on Pass Protection

In addition to their rushing abilities, the Auburn running backs have been working on their pass protection skills. Hunter notes that this is a crucial aspect of their game, and one that they take pride in.

“That’s a big deal in our game and what we do in the running back room. We’ve got to protect the quarterback,” Hunter said.

A Well-Rounded Group

The Auburn running backs are not just one-dimensional players. They are all capable of catching the ball out of the backfield, and Hunter notes that they can all play multiple positions.

“I think all of us can go from the backfield to the receiver spot. We can do what the tight ends can do. All of us can do all of the positions coach asks us to do and we can do it pretty well,” Hunter said.

The Auburn running backs are a versatile group.

A Confident Group

Despite the lack of attention, the Auburn running backs are confident in their abilities. They know that they have the talent and the work ethic to succeed, and they’re not afraid to say it.

“I feel like we’re very confident, we gain confidence each day,” Alston said. “Even more confident each day just going through practice and getting looks, running the plays and our talent is God-given and we’re just going to go out there and perform to the best of our ability.”

The Auburn running backs may not be getting the attention they deserve, but they’re not letting it faze them. They’re focused on one thing: making a statement on the field this season.

The Auburn running backs are ready to make their mark.