The Auburn football team faced serious struggles throughout the past two seasons. From the top to the bottom, there were obviously issues and it showed on the field during most every game, especially in the 2022 season.
However, the arrival of new head coach Hugh Freeze meant a rebuild, and the coaching staff has been working tirelessly to correct the problems ever since they got to the Plains. One of the biggest issues for the team last season was the offensive line.
Without a strong o-line, the rest of the offense was somewhat handicapped, so a top priority for the program during this off-season was improving along the line of scrimmage. It began with recruiting, where the staff brought in multiple offensive line transfers, many of whom are expected to be starters come September. Dillon Wade, Gunner Britton, Avery Jones, Jaden Muskrat, and Izavion Miller are all newcomers that may hit the field this fall.
According to a returning defensive lineman—someone who goes up against the offensive linemen in practice— the o-line has massively improved from last year. Jayson Jones is expecting big things from the Tigers’ offensive line this fall, per Auburn Daily:
"“I’ve said in previous interviews this offensive line is strong. They play with technique, so you can’t just be going out there and doing whatever you want. You have to do your assignment; you have to do your technique so you won’t get blown off the ball. These guys play so well together, opposing to last year. I’m excited to see what they are going to do this season. I’m ready to see it.”"
Unlike last year, the 2023 Auburn football offense needs an identity, and that has to start with strong protection in the trenches. Hopefully Tiger fans will see the improvements Jones references this fall.