Auburn Tigers football program is looking to bounce back and contend in 2024. To regain their status as one of the premier teams in the SEC, they need to make strategic offseason moves. Here are five bold steps the Tigers can take to revive their contention:
1. Recruit a Top-Tier Quarterback
One of Auburn’s biggest needs is at quarterback. Finding an elite QB who can lead the offense with confidence will be crucial. While Hugh Freeze may focus on developing current options, pursuing a transfer or landing a high-profile recruit could be a game-changer. A transfer portal addition like North Carolina’s Drake Maye or a five-star high school recruit could provide the firepower needed to take the offense to the next level.
2. Upgrade the Offensive Line
The Tigers’ offensive line struggled to provide consistent protection, making it essential to bolster this unit. Auburn must prioritize recruiting top linemen or hitting the transfer portal to secure veterans with experience. Targeting transfers like Amarius Mims from Georgia or highly-rated high school recruits could help Auburn stabilize its offense and open up the run game.
3. Revamp the Wide Receiver Corps
Auburn’s passing attack has lacked explosive playmakers in recent seasons. To change that, the Tigers need to recruit or transfer in fast, dynamic receivers who can stretch the field and create big plays. Auburn should target players like Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. or explore transfer options such as wideouts from smaller programs ready to make a jump.
4. Strengthen the Defensive Front
The Tigers’ defensive line has always been a cornerstone of their identity, but they need to reinforce it with elite talent to get back to competing with the best teams in the SEC. Recruiting or transferring in physical defensive linemen or edge rushers with the ability to disrupt the pass game and stuff the run will be key. A focus on developing younger talent, combined with adding veteran transfers, will give Auburn the defensive power to match up against top-tier offenses.
5. Secure Top Talent with NIL Deals
In today’s college football landscape, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals play a significant role in recruiting and retaining top talent. Auburn should ensure they are competitive in the NIL market by offering attractive deals to star players and high-profile recruits. This will help the Tigers retain key talent like running back Jarquez Hunter while drawing in the next wave of stars who can contribute immediately.
With these bold moves, the Auburn Tigers can reposition themselves as contenders for the SEC title and potentially make a run at the College Football Playoff in 2024. By addressing key weaknesses and adding elite talent, Auburn has the potential to turn things around and compete with the best teams in the nation.
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