Auburn football: 3 questions heading into the Birmingham Bowl

Question #2: Who will get more playing time due to opt-outs?

The 2022 Birmingham Bowl has the chance to be a big opportunity for several Auburn football players with gaps in the roster due to opt-outs. Cornerback Roger McCreary, linebacker Zakoby McClain, and offensive lineman Brodarious Hamm have all opted out of the bowl game in order to prepare for the NFL Draft.

Meanwhile, starting center Nick Brahms will miss the game due to recent knee surgery, but previously-injured Owen Pappoe has been practicing. Guys like sophomore linebackers Wesley Steiner and Cam Riley–who had 15 and nine total tackles this season, respectively–could get a chance to showcase their talents with McClain and possibly Pappoe missing from the lineup.

Junior Jalil Irvin is likely to replace Brahms at the center position, and true freshmen offensive linemen Colby Smith and Garner Langlo have been working hard in practices, per 247Sports. Luckily, seniors Austin Troxell and Brandon Council will be ready to go for tomorrow’s game.

For all of the younger players getting time on the field during the bowl game, it could be an opportunity for them to secure their role as a starter next season and give Coach Harsin a chance to evaluate where he needs more personnel from the transfer portal.