In today's edition of Auburn Tigers News, Jarquez Hunter explains why he and the rest of the Auburn football running backs feel disrespected and Jalen McLeod talks about the improved pass rush heading into the season
Throughout the offseason, there have been lots of questions about the progression of Auburn football. A lot of attention has been placed on the return of quarterback Payton Thorne, and whether or not he will have improved from last season. If people aren't talking about the QB situation they're talking about the new wide receivers, including star freshman Cam Coleman.
But one position group is being overlooked heading into the 2024 season, and it's a group that is arguably one of the strongest on the team: the running backs. The Tigers return a trio that has already proven to be elite in Jarquez Hunter, Damari Alston, and Jeremiah Cobb, but no one is talking about their potential ahead of this fall.
“We’re shocked,” Hunter said on Friday when asked about the lack of attention he the rest of Auburn’s running backs had received throughout the offseason, per AL.com. "That’s very disrespectful. I believe we’re one of the top running back rooms in the nation, or the best.”
Jalen McLeod on the improved pass rush
Last season there was a lot of pressure on linebacker Jalen McLeod, but this season the Auburn football coaching staff has brought in some help. With the additions of freshmen Joe Phillips and Jamonta Waller alongside Arkansas State transfer Keyron Crawford, depth at the position has significantly improved. According to McLeod, the level of talent has improved, too.
“He's probably a better pass-rusher than me, in my opinion,” said McLeod of Crawford, per Auburn Rivals. “He's got a bag that's different. He's got a good get-off. He's the prototype. Got the size and his size shows on the field, too. He's so strong.
“Both of us on the field with Keldric (Faulk) on the interior, we're going to have a better pass rush. Much better.”