Auburn is looking to take a step forward in the second year of Bryan Harsin’s tenure but will have to replace some significant production from last year to do so.
The Tigers will look quite different on offense and defense as they replace the production of several key players who have moved on. While some of these positions have clear replacements, some are wide open and will not be settled until fall practice.
The good news for Auburn is that they have several talented players who will have the opportunity to thrive in a larger role after learning behind veterans. Here are my predictions for who will lead Auburn in several key statistics on both the offense and defense.
Passing Yards and Touchdowns: Zach Calzada
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Auburn’s quarterback battle was not resolved during spring practice and Calzada being limited was a major reason why. A healthy Calzada will win the job in the fall and become the starting quarterback.
Rushing Yards and Touchdowns: Tank Bigsby
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Bigsby is Auburn’s best offensive player and should be the focal point of the offense, not just the ground game. He’s led Auburn in rushing yards the past two seasons and should do so as a junior. Bigsby will be looking to have an impressive season and prove he is worth an early pick in next year’s NFL draft.
Receiving Tards and Receptions: Shedrick Jackson
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Auburn’s wide receivers as a whole lack experience but Jackson is the exception. He has a career year last season and is the team’s top returning receiver. He should see plenty of targets as the rest of the receivers adjust to their new roles.
Receiving Touchdowns: Landen King
(AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
King looks like a potential difference-maker for the offense at either tight end or wide receiver. He has a chance to become the team’s top receiver and should see plenty of targets in the red zone.
Tackles: Owen Pappoe
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Pappoe is back for his senior…