Auburn football’s offensive line has definitely needed some improvement in the past, but it seems as though O-line coach Will Friend is willing to put in the work. With many fans expecting to see major changes in the offense now that head coach Bryan Harsin is in charge, it’s refreshing to hear the players themselves talking about improvement.
According to Auburn football running back Tank Bigsby–who was named A-Day offensive MVP— things are going to be different this year and the offensive line is going to step up:
"“I feel like the offensive line is doing great,” said Bigsby, the 2020 SEC Offensive Freshman of the Year. “I feel like they came a long way with the little things. They’re going to be great.”"
Bigsby was not the only player to compliment the Tigers’ new offensive style. Auburn center Nick Brahms got in on the action too, explaining that in the past the offense was lacking football IQ. Could this be another subtle shot at former head coach Gus Malzahn and his staff, similar to the Shaun Shivers dig?
Center Nick Brahms on #Auburn's offensive line this spring: "One of the things we were lacking was football IQ." Says new OL coach Will Friend teaches them to read the defense and focus on the looks they're being given, instead of just "running through plays" on offense.
— Nathan King (@NathanKing247) April 17, 2021
Though the Auburn O-line will not be at full strength until the fall when Brandon Council–who is currently dealing with knee and shoulder injuries–should be able to return to the team, Bryan Harsin said he saw “some solid execution” from the first-team offense.
Prior to A-Day, Auburn offensive tackle Austin Troxell spoke on the offensive line, saying he feels confident with the current members of the squad and that they’ll play more confidently in the upcoming season.
A revamped offensive line is exactly what the Tigers need to take the offense to the next level.