A Rough 2024 Season for the Auburn Tigers
The 2024 season was one that Auburn Tigers fans would prefer to forget. The team’s 5-7 record, coupled with only two wins in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC), was a clear indicator of the struggles that the program has faced in recent years. Since the firing of Gus Malzahn in 2020, Auburn has not managed to win more than six games in a single season. The last time the Tigers tasted significant success was in 2017, when they clinched ten victories. Despite making two BCS Championship appearances during the 2010s, Auburn’s football program has not lived up to the expectations of a top-tier SEC powerhouse. The challenges of the 2024 season, however, might just be a turning point for the better.
A New Era with Jackson Arnold
The 2025 season brings a new wave of optimism to Auburn with the arrival of Jackson Arnold, the highly touted transfer quarterback from Oklahoma. Replacing Payton Thorne, Arnold is a former five-star recruit who brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Tigers’ offense. His presence is expected to inject a much-needed spark into the team’s passing game, which has been a point of contention for the past few seasons. The transition to Arnold is not just a change at the quarterback position but a symbol of renewed hope for Auburn football.
The Promise of the Passing Attack
One of the most exciting aspects of the 2025 season is the potential of Auburn’s passing attack. Pro Football Focus (PFF) recently ranked the top returning wide receivers for the upcoming season, and the Tigers are the only team in the country to have two receivers featured in the Top 10. This dual threat is a testament to the talent and depth that Auburn has built on the offensive side of the ball. The presence of these receivers, combined with Jackson Arnold’s quarterback skills, could position Auburn to boast one of the most formidable offenses in the SEC next year.
Eric Singleton Jr.: A Home Run Threat
Eric Singleton Jr., a transfer from Georgia Tech, is ranked fifth by PFF and is known for his exceptional deep-threat capabilities. Singleton Jr. had at least one reception of 45 yards or longer in five of his games during the 2024 season, showcasing his ability to stretch the field and create big plays. His final statistics for the 2024 season include 56 receptions for 754 yards and three touchdowns, along with 131 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. Singleton Jr.’s dual-threat ability and deep-ball proficiency make him a crucial component of Auburn’s offensive arsenal, and his presence should give defenses fits.
Cam Coleman: A Rising Star
Rounding out the Top 10 is rising sophomore Cam Coleman, who had an impressive freshman campaign in 2024. Coleman, a blue-chip recruit from the Class of 2024, finished the season with 37 catches for 598 yards and eight touchdowns. While his overall numbers might not be as eye-catching as Singleton Jr.’s, his performance in the final three games of the season was nothing short of spectacular. Coleman reeled in 22 catches for 306 yards and six touchdowns during this stretch, demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. His development and continued growth could make him a top receiver in the SEC in the coming years.
A Bright Future for Auburn Football
The combination of Jackson Arnold’s quarterback skills and the dynamic duo of Eric Singleton Jr. and Cam Coleman presents a compelling argument for Auburn’s potential to dominate offensively in the 2025 season. While the 2024 season was undoubtedly challenging, the arrival of new talent and the development of existing players provide a promising outlook for the future. Head coach Hugh Freeze, known for his offensive prowess, will have the tools he needs to craft a high-octane offense that can compete with the best in the SEC. If everything falls into place, Auburn could be poised for a significant turnaround, making the 2025 season one that fans will be eager to remember.
