6.22.24 Football Articles

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auburnwire.usatoday.com

 

A look at Auburn football's 2024 roster

Taylor Jones

9–12 minutes

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The 2024 season is just around the corner. Earlier this month, we introduced you to the 2024 Auburn football coaching staff, now it is time to share with you the roster makeup for the Auburn Tigers ahead of a new year.

Auburn football returns several key names such as quarterback Payton Thorne, running back Jarquez Hunter, cornerback Keionte Scott, and linebacker Eugene Asante. The Tigers have also added experience from the transfer portal including wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith, defensive lineman Philip Blidi, and safety Jerrin Thompson.

According to ESPN, Auburn ranks No. 40 in college football in returning production. Auburn returns 66% of last season’s starters… 76% of Auburn’s offensive starters return while 57% of its defensive production returns. Offensively, Auburn revamps its wide receiver room with two transfers and four true freshmen. Defensively, the Tigers will look to fresh faces in the secondary to replace departing NFL talent such as DJ James and Jaylin Simpson.

Check out the full 2024 football roster for Auburn football, broken down by position, below.

Jamie Holt/Auburn Tigers

• No. 1 Payton Thorne (6-2 | 203 pounds | Senior | Napierville, Illinois)
• No. 11 Walker White (6-3 | 225 pounds | Freshman | Little Rock, Arkansas)
• No. 12 Holden Geriner (6-3 | 205 pounds | Sophomore | Savannah, Georgia)
• No. 15 Hank Brown (6-4 | 208 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Nashville, Tennessee)
• No. 19 Jackson Barkley (6-2 | 206 pounds | Junior | Marietta, Georgia)
• No. 20 John Colvin (6-3 | 184 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Birmingham, Alabama)

John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

• No. 21 Brian Battie (5-7 | 168 pounds | Senior | Sarasota, Florida)
• No. 22 Damari Alston (5-9 | 209 pounds | Junior | Atlanta, Georgia)
• No. 23 Jeremiah Cobb (5-11 | 196 pounds | Sophomore | Montgomery, Alabama)
• No. 25 Cole Gamble (6-0 | 208 pounds | Birmingham, Alabama)
• No. 26 Christian Burnette (5-11 | 199 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Mobile, Alabama)
• No. 27 Jarquez Hunter (5-10 | 209 pounds | Senior | Philadelphia, Mississippi)
• No. 35 Justin Jones (6-1 | 209 pounds | Junior | Bessemer, Alabama)

Jake Crandall/The Montgomery Advertiser

• No. 3 Perry Thompson (6-3 | 222 pounds | Freshman | Foley, Alabama)
• No. 4 Camden Brown (6-3 | 200 pounds | Junior | Monroe, Louisiana)
• No. 5 KeAndre Lambert-Smith (6-1 | 182 pounds | Senior | Norfolk, Virginia)
• No. 6 Bryce Cain (5-10 | 150 pounds | Freshman | Mobile, Alabama)
• No. 8 Cam Coleman (6-3 | 197 pounds | Freshman | Phenix City, Alabama)
• No. 10 Caleb Burton III (5-11 | 174 pounds | Sophomore | Austin, Texas)
• No. 14 Robert Lewis (5-10 | 188 pounds | Senior | Covington, Georgia)
• No. 16 Malcolm Simmons (6-0 | 179 pounds | Freshman | Alexander City, Alabama)
• No. 18 Sam Jackson V (5-10 | 187 pounds | Senior | Naperville, Illinois)
• No. 80 Will Upton (5-9 | 178 pounds | Jackson, Mississippi)
• No. 81 Greg McConico Jr. (5-10 | 190 pounds | Senior | Montgomery, Alabama)
• No. 82 Jake Kruse (5-10 | 179 pounds | Sophomore | Helena, Alabama)
• No. 83 Colby Stafford (5-11 | 175 pounds | Junior | Mobile, Alabama)
• No. 85 Cam’Ron King (6-0 | 195 pounds | Freshman | Ocala, Florida)
• No. 89 Dylan Gentry (5-9 | 151 pounds | Freshman | Phenix City, Alabama)

Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports

• No. 13 Rivaldo Fairweather (6-4 | 252 pounds | Senior | Lauderhill, Florida)
• No. 17 Rico Walker (6-2 | 246 pounds | Sophomore | Hickory, North Carolina)
• No. 28 Camden Etheredge (6-0 | 214 pounds | Sophomore | Auburn, Alabama)
• No. 40 Hunter Ousley (6-2 | 224 pounds | Freshman | Clanton, Alabama)
• No. 47 Grant Hidalgo (6-5 | 243 pounds | Junior | Orlando, Florida)
• No. 48 Eli Morton (6-5 | 219 pounds | Freshman | Sardis City, Alabama)
• No. 84 Micah Riley (6-5 | 266 pounds | Sophomore | Omaha, Nebraska)
• No. 86 Luke Deal (6-5 | 259 pounds | Senior | Greenwood, South Carolina)
• No. 87 Brandon Frazier (6-7 | 262 pounds | Senior | McKinney, Texas)

Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers

• No. 52 Dillon Wade (6-3 | 303 pounds | Senior | Houston, Texas)
• No. 54 Tate Johnson (6-4 | 281 pounds | Junior | LaGrange, Georgia)
• No. 55 Bradyn Joiner (6-2 | 328 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Auburn, Alabama)
• No. 56 EJ Harris (6-5 | 321 pounds | Sophomore | Auburn, Alabama)
• No. 57 Harrison Clemmer (6-0 | 267 pounds | Redshirt freshman | Birmingham, Alabama)
• No. 58 John Henry Flatt (6-6 | 311 pounds | Freshman | Dallas, Texas)
• No. 59 Isaac Boulger (6-2 | 272 pounds | Freshman | Northport, Alabama)
• No. 63 Jaden Muskrat (6-3 | 312 pounds | Junior | Berryhill, Oklahoma)
• No. 65 Seth Wilfred (6-5 | 329 pounds | Sophomore | Las Vegas, Nevada)
• No. 70 Favour Edwin (6-6 | 301 pounds | Freshman | McDonough, Georgia)
• No. 71 Dylan Senda (6-5 | 318 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Livonia, Michigan)
• No. 72 Izavion “Too Tall” Miller (6-5 | 301 pounds | Senior | Memphis, Tennessee)
• No. 74 Ronan Chambers (6-5 | 301 pounds | Senior | Olmstead Falls, Ohio)
• No. 75 Connor Lew (6-3 | 302 pounds | Sophomore | Kennesaw, Georgia)
• No. 76 Clay Weden (6-5 | 286 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Valrico, Florida)
• No. 77 Jeremiah Wright (6-5 | 333 pounds | Junior | Selma, Alabama)
• No. 78 DeAndre Carter (6-4 | 345 pounds | Freshman | Temecula, California)
• No. 79 Tyler Johnson (6-6 | 320 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Natchitoches, Louisiana)

John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

• No. 10 Amaris Williams (6-2 | 269 pounds | Freshman | Fayetteville, North Carolina)
• No. 13 TJ Lindsey (6-3 | 291 pounds | Freshman | Little Rock, Arkansas)
• No. 15 Keldric Faulk (6-6 | 288 pounds | Sophomore | Highland Home, Alabama)
• No. 22 Isaiah Raikes (6-1 | 323 pounds | Senior | Woodbury, New Jersey)
• No. 45 Darron Reed Jr. (6-4 | 285 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Columbus, Georgia)
• No. 47 Malik Blocton (6-3 | 291 pounds | Freshman | Pike Road, Alabama)
• No. 90 Austin Chambers (6-1 | 263 pounds | Freshman | Madison, Alabama)
• No. 91 Zykevious Walker (6-4 | 291 pounds | Junior | Ellaville, Georgia)
• No. 92 Trill Carter (6-0 | 299 pounds | Senior | Cordele, Georgia)
• No. 93 Joe Frazier (6-0 | 281 pounds | Sophomore | Auburn, Alabama)
• No. 95 Gage Keys (6-4 | 291 pounds | Junior | Hilliard, Ohio)
• No. 96 Philip Blidi (6-3 | 284 pounds | Senior | Trenton, New Jersey)
• No. 97 Quientrail Jamison-Travis (6-4 | 293 pounds | Junior | Minneapolis, Minnesota)
• No. 99 Jayson Jones (6-6 | 355 pounds | Senior | Calera, Alabama)

Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers

• No. 11 Jamonta Waller (6-0 | 243 pounds | Freshman | Picayune, Mississippi)
• No. 24 Keyron Crawford (6-4 | 245 pounds | Junior | Memphis, Tennessee)
• No. 31 Joe Phillips (6-2 | 251 pounds | Freshman | Shorter, Alabama)
• No. 35 Jalen McLeod (6-1 | 236 pounds | Senior | Washington, DC)

Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers

• No. 6 Austin Keys (6-1 | 291 pounds | Senior | Alexandria, Virginia)
• No. 12 Dorian Mausi Jr. (6-1 | 234 pounds | Senior | Detroit, Michigan)
• No. 16 Demarcus Riddick (6-2 | 217 pounds | Freshman | Clanton, Alabama)
• No. 17 Robert Woodyard (6-0 | 220 pounds | Sophomore | Mobile, Alabama)
• No. 33 DJ Barber (5-11 | 226 pounds | Freshman | Birmingham, Alabama)
• No. 42 Coleman Granberry (5-11 | 200 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Auburn, Alabama)
• No. 43 John Mark Richter (6-2 | 227 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Vestavia Hills, Alabama)
• No. 52 William Grier McDuffie (6-1 | 201 pounds | Freshman | Birmingham, Alabama)

Austin Perryman/Auburn Tigers

• No. 0 Keionte Scott (6-0 | 192 pounds | Senior | San Diego, California)
• No. 4 Kayin Lee (5-11 | 181 pounds | Sophomore | Ellenwood, Georgia)
• No. 8 Antonio Kite (6-0 | 175 pounds | Sophomore | Anniston, Alabama)
• No. 14 Tyler Scott (6-1 | 199 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Austell, Georgia)
• No. 20 JC Hart (6-2 | 199 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Loachapoka, Alabama)
• No. 23 Jay Crawford (5-11 | 179 pounds | Freshman | Atlanta, Georgia)
• No. 25 Champ Anthony (5-11 | 182 pounds | Junior | Fort Worth, Texas)
• No. 32 Cade Carlson (6-1 | 186 pounds | Freshman | Eads, Tennessee)
• No. 37 Rod Elston (5-9 | 187 pounds | Sophomore | Anniston, Alabama)

Zach Bland/Auburn Tigers

• No. 1 Jerrin Thompson (6-0 | 186 pounds | Senior | Lufkin, Texas)
• No. 3 Laquan Robinson (6-1 | 204 pounds | Junior | Greenville, Alabama)
• No. 5 Terrance Love (6-2 | 220 pounds | Sophomore | Fairburn, Georgia)
• No. 18 Kaleb Harris (6-1 | 201 pounds | Freshman | Bessemer, Alabama)
• No. 19 Sylvester Smith (6-0 | 192 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Munford, Alabama)
• No. 21 Caleb Wooden (6-1 | 192 pounds | Junior | Lawrenceville, Georgia)
• No. 26 A’Mon Lane-Ganus (5-10 | 179 pounds | Freshman | Columbiana, Alabama)
• No. 27 Mac McClinton (5-8 | 183 pounds | Sophomore | Montgomery, Alabama)
• No. 28 Kensley Louidor-Faustin (5-11 | 177 pounds | Freshman | Naples, Florida)
• No. 29 CJ Johnson (6-2 | 198 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Houston, Texas)
• No. 36 Antwon Fegans Jr. (6-1 | 197 pounds | Junior | Oxford, Alabama)
• No. 39 Griffin Speaks (5-11 | 180 pounds | Senior | Auburn, Alabama)
• No. 41 Josh Cohen (5-10 | 177 pounds | Junior | Marietta, Georgia)
• No. 48 Paul Thompson Jr. (6-0 | 200 pounds | Sophomore | Hoover, Alabama)

Todd Van Emst /AU Athletics

• No. 37 Gabe Russo (6-0 | 218 pounds | Redshirt Freshman | Montgomery, Alabama)
• No. 91 Oscar Chapman (6-3 | 211 pounds | Senior | Adelaide, South Australia)

Jamie Holt/Auburn Tigers

• No. 33 Towns McGough (6-0 | 191 pounds | Freshman | Auburn, Alabama)
• No. 38 Alex McPherson (5-9 | 156 pounds | Sophomore | Fort Payne, Alabama)

Austin Perryman/Auburn Athletics

• No. 44 Reed Hughes (6-1 | 233 pounds | Junior | Conway, Arkansas)
• No. 46 Keaton McNutt (5-11 | 217 pounds | Freshman | Newnan, Georgia)
• No. 67 JR Buckner (5-10 | 251 pounds | Freshman | Auburn, Alabama)

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si.com

Auburn Tigers get Commitment from Former Penn State Pledge

Dominic Petrillo

~2 minutes

In a move which has been rumored for weeks, the Auburn Tigers have flipped four-star running back Alvin Henderson from Penn State. Henderson is from Elba, Ala. and is afour-star recruit from the recruiting services, Rivals ranks Henderson as the No. 3 running back in the country and a top 50 prospect overall.

"War Eagle I'm staying home," Henderson wrote on X.

"Hugh Freeze made me feel like a top priority," Henderson told On3's Chad Simmons.

Although Henderson has been committed to Penn State since April, his frequent appearance on the Auburn campus was notable as he continued visiting the in-state school. With Henderson in the mix, this makes six of the top 15 in-state recruits who have verbally committed to Auburn. 

Auburn was ranked No. 6 in 247sports' team recruiting rankings prior to his commitment and is expected to move into the top five once they're updated to reflect his commitment.

On3's team recruiting rankings show Auburn with the No. 7 class after incorporating Henderson's commitment.

247Sports' Cooper Petagna had this to say about Henderson:

Verified at 5-foot-9 plus and 190-pounds in February of 2024, Henderson possesses the growth potential to add some additional weight to an already collegiate ready frame. A sudden runner that demonstrates the ability to play in both a power or zone scheme, the Alabama native exhibits excellent short area burst and separation quickness at the second level to create space between defenders.

- Cooper Petagna, 247Sports

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saturdaydownsouth.com

Auburn flips 4-star RB away from Big Ten power

Spenser Davis | 18 hours ago

~3 minutes

Auburn picked up a big-time recruit in the class of 2025 on Friday.

The Tigers earned a commitment from 4-star running back Alvin Henderson, who was committed to Penn State prior to this announcement. An Alabama native, Henderson had been committed to the Nittany Lions since April 11.

Henderson shared the news of his commitment with On3’s Hayes Fawcett:

BREAKING: Four-Star RB Alvin Henderson has Flipped his Commitment from Penn State to Auburn, he tells me for @on3recruits

The 5’10 200 RB from Elba, AL had been Committed to the Nittany Lions since April

“I’m staying home , Auburn family thank you for the support and… pic.twitter.com/cNhn2JCpYf

— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) June 21, 2024

Henderson is a huge pickup for Auburn in this cycle. He’s the No. 113 overall player and the No. 8 running back in the country for the class of 2025, per 247Sports Composite rankings. He’s also the No. 11 player from the state of Alabama.

Henderson attends Elba High School in Elba, Alabama. He’s listed at 5-foot-9, 200 pounds.

Auburn initially offered Henderson a scholarship back in March of 2022. He’s taken multiple visits to campus over the last year, including one as recently as last month. Henderson’s other offers include Miami, Florida State and Alabama, amongst other top programs.

Auburn is now up to 16 commits in the class of 2025. The group sits at No. 4 nationally, per 247Sports Composite rankings. If this class remains in the top-10 through signing day, that would mean back-to-back seasons of top-10 classes for Hugh Freeze and his staff.

The 2024 campaign will be a big one for Freeze and the Tigers. Auburn’s 2024 regular-season win total currently sits at 7.5, per FanDuel.

Here are some highlights from Henderson’s junior season:

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Spenser Davis

Spenser is the news manager at Saturday Road and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands. Follow on Twitter.

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athlonsports.com

Auburn Football Boasts Top 5 Class Following Alvin Henderson's Commitment

Lance Dawe

~2 minutes

The Auburn Tigers now boast a top-five recruiting class.

Hugh Freeze made it clear this offseason that his goal was to eventually land top-five classes consistently for the Tigers down the line. As of right now, Auburn has one for this recruiting cycle.

The Tigers are No. 4 nationally in 247Sports' recruiting rankings after 4-star running back Alvin Henderson announced on Friday afternoon that he would be flipping from the Penn State Nittany Lions to Auburn.

Auburn Daily's Brian Smith broke down Henderson's film following his commitment:

"At 5-foot-10 and 198 pounds, Henderson runs over defenders, around them, and outruns the opposition, too. The talented running back recruit also has the patience and discipline to follow his blocks and maximize opportunities.

Watching his film, Henderson rarely goes down when meeting the first defender. He breaks tackles well, as well as sets up his blockers to create extra running space. From one run to the next one, he finds ways to create big plays. As for his recruitment, Auburn's staff did not give up after his original pledge to the Nittany Lions. That includes a recent coaching hire bringing Henderson to AU."

Here's a look at the updated class across recruiting sites:

247Sports

- No. 4 nationally

- No. 2 SEC

On3

- No. 7 nationally

- No. 4 SEC

Rivals

- No. 5 nationally

No. 2 SEC

List of commitments

5-star DL Malik Autry

4-star EDGE Jakaleb Faulk

4-star S Eric Winters

4-star DL Jourdin Crawford

4-star LB Tyler Lockhart

4-star CB Devin Williams

4-star OT Tavaris Dice

4-star OT Carde Smith

4-star CB Donovar Starr

4-star RB Alvin Henderson

3-star OT Broderick Shull

3-star TE Ryan Ghea

3-star ATH Bryce Deas

3-star CB Dante Core

3-star OT Spencer Dowland

3-star IOL Tai Buster

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auburnwire.usatoday.com

Auburn flips 2025 RB Alvin Henderson from Penn State

Taylor Jones

2–3 minutes

After choosing Penn State over Auburn in April, class of 2025 running back Alvin Henderson is changing course.

Henderson, a four-star running back from Elba, shared Friday that he has backed off his pledge to Penn State in favor of committing to a home-state school. This flip comes days after recruiting experts from 247Sports and On3 submitted predictions favoring Henderson switching to Auburn.

Auburn appeared to be the frontrunner to land Henderson in April before a last-minute visit to Happy Valley changed his mind. Penn State sold him the idea of being the next great running back. However, a few unofficial visits to Auburn post-commitment forced him to make a decision that best suited him.

“Deep down and truly I know where home is and I knew where home was from the beginning,” Henderson told Auburn Undercover following his switch to Auburn.

Auburn has made giant steps forward this month by landing five commitments for its 2025 class and jumping six spots in recruiting rankings. Henderson’s pledge has improved Auburn’s 2025 recruiting ranking to No. 4 in 247Sports’ 2025 rankings, up from No. 10 at the beginning of the month.

Henderson is a top-20 running back for the 2025 class, he is also seen as a top-20 recruit from Alabama. Rivals ranks Henderson at No. 3 in both position and state rankings.

BREAKING: 4-star RB Alvin Henderson has FLIPPED his commitment from Penn State to Auburn.

"Deep down and truly I know where home is and I knew where home was from the beginning."

MORE: https://t.co/iVxjZZNWGZ pic.twitter.com/2ETnQ7aBmi

— Christian Clemente (@CClemente247) June 21, 2024

Contact/Follow us @TheAuburnWire on  X (Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Auburn news, notes, and opinions. You can also follow Taylor on Twitter @TaylorJones__

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si.com

 

Auburn Tigers New Weapon on Defense - Amaris Williams

Terrance Biggs

4–5 minutes

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Former 5-star defensive end Amaris Williams enters his freshman year at Auburn with a golden opportunity to earn extensive playing time. When he selected the Auburn Tigers, Williams surprised experts who believed that he would end up somewhere else. He was previously committed to the Florida Gators, and Auburn was in a battle with Ohio State among others for his signature.

However, the blue-chip prospect envisions the Tigers as a launching pad for future success. At the same, the massive amount of work and practice needed before that looms large for the highly-touted freshman. Now, Auburn provides him a chance to thrive within a system that actually favors his style of play. 

Traits

At six-foot-two and 257 pounds, Williams passes the eye test. By the same token, he plays like a classic edge rusher. With a smooth first step. More importantly, the long arms open the door for various moves. 

For example, the swim and long arms immediately jumps to mind. By using reach to keep himself unblocked and clean, Williams gets the corner, forcing the blocker backward and on skates. The long arms, in concert with speed, converts speed to power with authority. 

Williams placed second in the state shot put competition. That signifies much-needed lower body explosion, with the ability to use an effective bull rush. Blessed with elite physical traits, now, he needs to fully develop his rush repertoire.

Competition

Jalen McLeod currently occupies the BUCK edge rusher starting spot. Unlike Williams, McLeod stands roughly six-feet-tall and weighs 225 pounds. He uses burst to overwhelm much slower tackles. Instead of always attempting to stay free of hands, McLeod prefers to initiate contact.

Furthermore, his motor allows for block shedding and lateral/forward pursuit. If the quarterback climbs the pocket, McLeod will make up the distance from behind, trying to dislodge the ball. McLeod will finish his final year at Auburn after transferring from Appalachian State.

The aggression could make Williams's attempts at vulturing snaps difficult. Arkansas State transfer Keyron Crawford looms as another roadblock. Crawford doesn't possess the same explosion as Williams or McLeod. Either way, no one player will command the lion's share of the snaps as a heavy rotation is always expected on the defensive line.

Opportunity

Massive offensive linemen could inhibit McLeod's season. Plus, opponents know and understand that without blitzing linebackers, McLeod serves as Auburn's primary pass rusher. So, he will not see single blocking.

In fact, look for teams to help tackles with tight end/back chips to slow his progress. Auburn's new-look schedule may give young defenders time to mature. They only face five teams who had top-50 offenses last season, but two of those, Oklahoma and Georgia were comfortably in the top 10.

Oklahoma and Georgia roughly 500 yards per game. Granted, Oklahoma lost Dillon Gabriel to Oregon. However, wide receiver Nic Anderson still calls Norman home. If McLeod falters, watch for the coaching staff to give him the quick hook to see if Williams can affect the game. The sky is the limit for Williams athletically. Can he build a go-to skillset that complements his game, in order to see the field?

Auburn’s 2024 Football Schedule 

Sat. Aug. 31 Alabama A&M 6:30 p.m. CT 
Sat. Sept. 7 California 2:30 p.m. CT 
Sat. Sept. 14 New Mexico (HC) 6:30 p.m. CT 
Sat. Sept. 21 Arkansas 
Sat. Sept. 28 Oklahoma 
Sat. Oct. 5at Georgia 
Sat. Oct. 19 at Missouri 
Sat. Oct. 26 at Kentucky 
Sat. Nov. 2 Vanderbilt 
Sat. Nov. 16 Louisiana Monroe 
Sat. Nov. 23 Texas A&M 
Sat. Nov. 30 at Alabama

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espn.com

 

Auburn flips 4-star RB Alvin Henderson from Penn State - ESPN

Eli Lederman

2–3 minutes

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Auburn has a better season ahead, but just how far can it go? (1:05)

With a challenging trio of road games on the Tigers' mid-season slate, SEC Now's Roman Harper praises the program's growth but doesn't let the missing pieces go unnoticed. (1:05)

• 

  Eli Lederman, ESPNJun 21, 2024, 01:56 PM ET

Reactions

Auburn gained a major in-state flip and its highest-rated prospect in the 2025 class when running back Alvin Henderson, No. 55 in the ESPN 300, decommitted from Penn State and gave his verbal pledge to the Tigers on Friday.

"#WAREAGLE. I'm staying home," Henderson wrote on Twitter/X.

#WAREAGLE I'm staying home 🏡🦅🥶 https://t.co/ySQi65oXK2

— "𝐀" 𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐍 2️⃣ 𝐇𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍 (@AlHenderson_1) June 21, 2024

The four-star running back from Elba, Alabama, had been committed to the Nittany Lions since April 11 and his move follows visits to both Auburn and Penn State in recent weeks. With his flip, Henderson becomes the 10th ESPN 300 commit in Hugh Freeze's second signing class with the Tigers.

Henderson tallied 225 carries for 3,532 yards and a state record 61 touchdowns last fall. He joins offensive tackles Tavaris Dice (No. 150 in ESPN 300) and Broderick Shull (No. 227) among the top offensive prospects committed to Auburn in this cycle. Five-star quarterback Julian Lewis, the nation's No. 1 overall recruit who's committed to USC, took an official visit with the Tigers last weekend.

Henderson's departure marks a significant blow to James Franklin's 2025 class. The 5-foot-10 rusher was the highest-ranked prospect headed to Penn State in the upcoming cycle. After Henderson, ESPN 300 commits Brady O'Hara (No. 4 TE-Y) and Lyrick Samuel (No. 33 wide receiver) remain as the top offensive recruits set to join the Nittany Lions in 2025.

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athlonsports.com

 

Why Is Alvin Henderson A Good Running Back?

Brian Smith

2–3 minutes

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Auburn’s newest 2025 verbal commitment could make an early impact on the Plains.

Alvin Henderson is not your typical running back. MaxPreps has him rushing for 3,523 yards and 61 touchdowns as a junior, he’s a workhorse willing to carry the football over and over to help his team win.

Rivals has Henderson as its #36 player in the nation. His production is part of the reason why, but one also needs to evaluate how Henderson runs the football and why he creates big plays.

Playing for Elba (Ala.) High School, Henderson has many traits that will blend in nicely while playing at the SEC level for the Tigers. One could argue several traits as top-notch, with two working well together as lead examples.

Henderson’s vision is tremendous. He avoids defenders head-on or if they are closing in right in front of him; he’s rarely caught off guard. Henderson will also use double moves and make defenders look bad because he quickly sees what’s coming. Even when Henderson is hit, he’s still a threat.

Also of note, Henderson’s after-contact balance is admirable. A combination of a low center of gravity, a strong core, and quick feet are among the traits that help him to break tackles and churn out more yardage. It’s impressive to watch.

He keeps defenders off balance by changing speeds and mixing in a sharp cut at the last moment before avoiding a defender altogether. That brings up one more consideration for how good a runner Henderson is.

Even when he’s surrounded, Henderson moves the pile and gains extra yards. He’s determined. That matters. Not only does it offer his squad more yardage but it’s also a sign of grit from a star player that will inspire his teammates. Offensive linemen will certainly applaud blocking for a player like that. All of Henderson’s attributes help with the passing game, too.

Teams are not going to enjoy tackling Henderson in space. Give him just a few feet between himself and a linebacker, a person should bet on Henderson. He’s going to win the majority of those battles.

Henderson is a unique running back who Auburn fans will enjoy watching play for the Tigers.

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247sports.com

 

4star RB Alvin Henderson flips from Penn State to Auburn

Christian Clemente

8–10 minutes

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• 

• 

Auburn has a major RB addition on the way with the flip of Alvin Henderson.

A recruitment that long felt like Auburn was the team to beat, now has Auburn officially as the team to beat.

4-star running back Alvin Henderson from Elba (Ala.) has flipped his commitment from Penn State to Auburn. Henderson committed to the Nittany Lions over Auburn in April, but now ends up in Auburn's 2025 class. Henderson had long been coveted by the Auburn staff as Derrick Nix and Hugh Freeze searched for two running backs in the class.

Henderson is ranked in the industry-generated 247Sports Composite as the No. 113 player, No. 8 running back and No. 11 player from Alabama. 247Sports ranks the 5-foot-9, 200-pound back as the No. 15 running back and No. 17 player from Alabama.

"So honestly the main thing for me was ever since I've been committed to Penn State, Coach Freeze no lie texts me every day," Henderson told Auburn Undercover. "Every day or every other day. He just broke it down to me, I talked to people that played there before me all running backs. Obviously that relationship previously with Coach 'Lac but I've also been able to connect with Ronnie Brown. Not only that but just the resources and everything with everyone that works at Auburn, they told me that I could come there and make an impact."

Those connections that Henderson was able to make with others around Auburn besides Nix and Freeze were key. But so was the consistency from the staff. Despite his pledge to the Nittany Lions on April 11th, Auburn never relented on the in-state back.

"The main thing that opened my eyes was, obviously committed to Penn State and Penn State's a great school and Coach Franklin and Coach Seider have coached a lot of great backs, but one thing that was presented to me was just the opportunity and the name that I can build for myself inside the state of Alabama," Henderson said. "When I talked to Coach Freeze every day he never brought up the fact that you could come here and be great, he kept the main thing the main thing and told me, 'You're my guy and I need you. What do I got to do to get you?' So his words to me were you could come here and be special. We've got to recruit other running backs, but we want to take you. One thing that my mom and my family told me, I was finding out really what schools and coaches wanted me after I committed. Auburn was one of those places. Coach Freeze and Coach Nix, they hit me up every day. There hasn't been a week that's gone by since I've been committed where Coach Freeze hasn't hit me up and told me how much he needs me."

Over three seasons at Elba, Henderson has totaled 7,274 yards and 132 touchdowns in his career, breaking state records for his team. 

The in-state standout is now commitment No. 16 for the Tigers' staff. With his addition and after recently adding Eric Winters, Auburn jumps up from the No. 6 class to the No. 4 class in the 247Sports team recruiting rankings. Henderson continues the trend that Freeze has made a priority of keeping the top in-state targets in the Yellowhammer State.

"That's exciting because me and Eric have played everything together since sixth grade," Henderson said. "Not even just Eric but just all the dudes that are in-state. Coach Freeze's main thing is he texts us, 'Man I've got to keep you guys in state.' That means a lot. Obviously with the '24 recruiting class he had and now me and Eric, Jakaleb and the O-Lineman that's committed, that means a lot because that's something we're able to build. Future classes will come and see what the memo is, you don't really have to go nowhere else. You can stay in-state and be with your homeboys and be special."

Auburn is still searching for at least two more backs in the 2025 class, with just two scholarship backs projected to return for next season. With Henderson committed as a smaller back, Ousmane Kromah, Shekai Mills-Knight and Daune Morris are other names to know at the spot.

While Auburn fans were heartbroken when Henderson committed to Penn State, Henderson has a new message for the fanbase.

"Man my main thing is, I'm not going to necessarily say I made a mistake, but there were some things that were explained to me that I thought were better for me but I'm sorry to all the Auburn fans," Henderson said. "Deep down and truly I know where home is and I knew where home was from the beginning. I thought Penn State was a better opportunity, but everything that I want is up here at Auburn.

Most Valuable Tigers: No. 22

Next up is a returning starter on the offensive line who will have some competition in fall camp, but is looking to improve his game after coming over from the JUCO level last summer

We're still in the heart of the college football offseason: more than two months removed from spring practice, a month from media days, and several weeks until the start of the 2024 season, Auburn's second under Hugh Freeze.

So what better time to crank up the rankings? As we do annually this time of year, Auburn Undercover is counting down the top 25 most valuable players for the Tigers' 2024 season.

A few notes to set the table: These rankings are based on a player's previous contributions to the team, as well as his assumed impact in 2024 — how important he is expected to be to Auburn's success in both production and the win-loss column.

It is not simply Auburn's best players in descending order. If a freshman is included on the list, his positioning is obviously a projection of his talent and significance to his respective position group.

Next up is No. 22: Izavion Miller, a returning starter on the offensive line who will have some competition in fall camp, but is looking to improve his game after coming over from the JUCO level last summer.

AS A RECRUIT

Hometown: Memphis, Tenn.

Class: 2021

247Sports ranking: 3-star, No. 4 OT (JUCO)

(Maria Lysaker, USA TODAY Sports)

AS A PLAYER

When Freeze hired his new offensive line coach from Ole Miss, Jake Thornton was adamant he needed to bring over one of his favorite prospects. Miller had been committed to the Rebels since that summer, but in the span of just three days after Thornton was hired, Miller visited Auburn, decommitted from Ole Miss, and signed with the Tigers.

Thornton was high on Miller's potential as an SEC starting tackle, and it wasn't difficult to see why. At 6-foot-5 and 320 pounds, he was rated as the No. 4 JUCO player at his position out of Southwest Mississippi Community College. The question was how quickly Miller could contribute to the Tigers' immediate needs on the O-line.

And it was only a couple weeks before the season started that that question was answered. Auburn thought it had its offensive line sorted, but Miller made a massive surge late in fall camp, as Auburn moved Gunner Britton to start at left guard instead of right tackle, where Miller ultimately won the starting job.

In 2023, Miller appeared to have his fair share of struggles. On top of allowing the most QB pressures on the team (21), both Miller's run- and pass-blocking grades by Pro Football Focus were the lowest among Auburn's starting offensive linemen.

2024 OUTLOOK

Despite an up-and-down first season on the Plains, Miller held onto the starting job in spring practices, garnering the majority of first-team reps ahead of new JUCO transfer Seth Wilfred. 

Whether that continues to be the case in the fall will be a question mark for this offensive line group, as Wilfred is also an exciting addition who Auburn views as a major piece for the future. At the same time, Miller was placed in a starting job in the SEC perhaps a bit quicker than expected, and a full offseason could serve him well for improvements in 2024.

Additionally, Thornton mentioned in the spring that Miller battled some minor ankle injuries early in the season, and the staff saw his production improve down the stretch, particularly in the run game. Thornton said Miller has done a good job of self-scouting in the offseason, and he's excited to see how he continues to compete and progress with some other contenders added at the tackle positions.

WHAT THEY SAID

"I thought I did pretty good, actually. I wasn't coming in expecting to start, but it got drilled into me soon that I needed to get it going. So I started to get it going and haven't stopped yet. Hopefully I don't stop." — Miller on his first season at Auburn

WHAT SAY YOU?

MOST VALUABLE TIGERS

No. 25: DT Trill Carter

No. 24: OG Jeremiah Wright

No. 23: LB Dorian Mausi

*** Subscribe to Auburn Undercover for the latest news and intel, podcasts, recruiting coverage and more ***

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al.com

Auburn signs Colorado transfer, former Alabama defensive back Jahquez Robinson

Updated: Jun. 21, 2024, 8:37 p.m.|Published: Jun. 21, 2024, 8:06 p.m.

~3 minutes

Alabama defensive back Jahquez Robinson (23) And Alabama Associate Defensive Coordinator / Safeties Charles Kelly run drills during Practice at Thomas-Drew Practice Fields in Tuscaloosa, AL on Tuesday, Nov 8, 2022. Crimson Tide Photos / UA Athleti

Evidently Hugh Freeze and the Auburn Tigers have continued to poke around the transfer portal late in the cycle as Auburn announced the signing of Colorado transfer and former Alabama defensive back Jahquez Robinson on Friday evening.

Robinson, who hails from Jacksonville, spent the 2023 season at Colorado after having started his career at Alabama, where he signed as a 3-star recruit in the class of 2020. Robinson was ranked as the 33rd-best cornerback in the 2020 class, according to 247Sports.

A reserve during his time in Tuscaloosa, Robinson didn’t see action with the Crimson Tide and ultimately decided to follow his position coach, Charles Kelly, to Colorado.

“(Kelly) was one of the guys when he left I was sad. That’s who I was always around and always watching game films with and learning the game,” Robinson said in an interview last summer.

Between his time at Alabama and his time at Colorado, Kelly has served as Robinson’s position coach in each season of college football he’s played.

Robinson is set to reunite with Kelly, who was hired as Auburn’s co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach in January.

During his 2023 campaign, Robinson appeared in four games and tallied eight tackles and an interception.

While Auburn lists Robinson as a safety, Robinson advertises himself as a versatile defensive back that’s played some at corner, nickel and safety.

With Robinson in the fold, the Tigers have added three transfer defensive backs as Robinson joins Alabama transfer Antonio Kite and Texas transfer Jerrin Thompson.

Robinson should have two years of eligibility remaining.

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on3.com

 

SEC Order of Finish Prediction: Phil Steele projects conference standings for 2024 college football

Nick Schultz

10–13 minutes

---

The 2024 season will see plenty of changes around college football, and the SEC is right in the middle of it. Two teams are joining the fray, meaning Phil Steele’s SEC order of finish prediction is taking on a new look.

Texas and Oklahoma are joining the fray, taking the league to 16 teams after the calendar flips to July. Both programs appear poised to make some noise in the SEC, and one of them tied for first in Steele’s order of finish prediction.

Here’s the full breakdown of Phil Steele’s projections. It includes a familiar face at the top of the rankings, as well.

1. Georgia

John David Mercer | USA TODAY Sports

After falling short in the SEC Championship a season ago, Georgia appears to be the favorite in the conference once again. The Bulldogs have some firepower back, notably at quarterback, and bolstered the running game by bringing in Trevor Etienne from the transfer portal.

Carson Beck remains the headliner in Athens after an impressive 2023 season. He shook off an up-and-down start as he went on to throw for almost 4,000 yards and generate some early Heisman Trophy buzz after choosing to return to Georgia.

2. Texas

(Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

One of the SEC newcomers also possesses one of the most high-powered offenses in the league. Texas makes a strong case for the nation’s best quarterback room with Quinn Ewers, Arch Manning and Trey Owens in the room, and Steve Sarkisian has plenty of momentum after a special 2023 season.

The Longhorns made their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance after a 12-1 record and a Big 12 championship. Although they fell to Washington in the matchup, Texas has a strong combination of incoming freshmen and transfer portal talent to keep things rolling in the SEC.

3. Alabama

Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer (Gary Cosby Jr. / USA TODAY Sports)

It’s officially a new era in Tuscaloosa as Kalen DeBoer gets ready for his first season as Alabama head coach. The Crimson Tide still have some question marks after some high-profile portal entries, but there’s still plenty of talent left from Nick Saban’s final season to generate optimism in T-Town.

Alabama’s most notable returning piece is Jalen Milroe, who took a huge leap forward last year after finding himself on the bench. He’s also seen as a potential Heisman contender and will be the focal point of DeBoer’s high-powered offense as the Crimson Tide start the next chapter.

4. Ole Miss

Bruce Newman | Special to the Clarion Ledger | USA TODAY NETWORK

Two years ago, Lane Kiffin became the self-proclaimed “Portal King” before handing the title over. There’s a strong case to be made he took the crown back this offseason after bringing in three of the top 25 players – all of which came from SEC rivals – in the On3 Industry Transfer Rankings.

Walter Nolen and Princely Umanmielen are both coming in to anchor the defense, and Juice Wells will step in as an instant-impact receiver. That’s a strong foundation for Jaxson Dart, who’s entering his third season at Ole Miss, but it will still be interesting to see how the Rebels fit into the new-look SEC picture with so many new faces coming aboard.

T-5. LSU

© Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports

Last year, LSU’s biggest issue was its defense. Brian Kelly took a big swing to address that, hiring Blake Baker away from Missouri – and the first question will be how Harold Perkins fits into the new scheme.

The Tigers also saw some notable losses on offense with Jayden Daniels, Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas going in the first round of the NFL Draft. That means it’ll be Garrett Nussmeier’s show as LSU looks to rebound from an up-and-down 2023 season.

T-5. Missouri

© Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

After coming in as a bottom-half prediction in the SEC preseason poll, Missouri became a breakout team. Eli Drinkwitz’s group won 10 games for the first time since 2014 and created plenty of positive momentum heading into 2023.

Luther Burden became one of the SEC’s most dominant players and is back for another go-round in 2024, and Five Star Plus+ EDGE Williams Nwaneri highlights the group of newcomers. Suddenly, Mizzou looks like it could be a contender in the conference once again with Brady Cook coming back to call the shots at quarterback.

T-5. Oklahoma

Bryan Terry | THE OKLAHOMAN | USA TODAY NETWORK

The other SEC newcomer saw plenty of turnover this offseason. Oklahoma went 10-3 last season, but is preparing to see a new face at quarterback paired with a new offensive coordinator in 2024.

It’s officially Jackson Arnold’s show in Norman after Dillon Gabriel transferred to Oregon, and he’ll join co-offensive coordinators Seth Littrell and Joe Jon Finley as part of OU’s new Air Raid-style scheme. A change also took place on defense as Zac Alley came in to take over a unit that features Billy Bowman and Danny Stutsman after All-Big 12 seasons a year ago.

T-5. Tennessee

Nico Iamaleava Brianna Paciorka/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

Another high-profile quarterback change is awaiting on Rocky Top, where Nico Iamaleava is set to take the reins at Tennessee. He spent the 2023 campaign sitting behind Joe Milton, but the former top recruit is now getting the keys to the sports car that is Josh Heupel’s offense.

It’s not just the offense generating some buzz, though. The Tennessee defense also features some big names, headlined by EDGE James Pearce – On3’s No. 1 player in the 2024 Top 100 players in college football – to help make the Vols a bit of a wild card in the SEC this season.

9. Texas A&M

Ken Ruinard | USA Today Network | USA TODAY NETWORK

It’s officially the Mike Elko era at Texas A&M after the school parted ways with Jimbo Fisher midway through the 2023 season. The Aggies got hit hard by the portal, though, making Elko’s job tougher as he returns to College Station and is a reason they came in at No. 9 in Phil Steele’s predictions.

A key returning piece, though, is Conner Weigman. He appeared to be making strides last year before an injury cut his season short, but there’s already some buzz about his potential under new offensive coordinator Collin Klein.

10. Florida

Doug Engle | Gainesville Sun | USA TODAY NETWORK

It’s shaping up to be a big year for Billy Napier at Florida. After a rough National Signing Day and back-to-back five-win seasons, the pressure is ramping up even as the Gators take on one of the nation’s toughest schedules in 2024.

It wasn’t all bad news on Signing Day, though, as DJ Lagway signed with Florida to join an offense that still includes Tre Wilson after a big freshman campaign. But Phil Steele predicts the Gators to finish in the bottom half of the SEC, and all eyes will be on how they handle such a tough slate of games.

T-11. South Carolina

© Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

Another team with some question marks is South Carolina. The Gamecocks lost Spencer Rattler and Xavier Legette to the NFL Draft, meaning LaNorris Sellers and Robby Ashford will battle it out for the starting job.

Shane Beamer and Co. had a rough go in 2023, finishing with a 5-7 record to miss out on a bowl game. All told, 15 starters are coming back – including star athlete Nyck Harbor – but a tough schedule could make things tough for South Carolina’s quest for a bounce-back.

T-11. Kentucky

(Jamie Rhodes | USA TODAY Sports)

Another interesting SEC team is in Lexington, where Kentucky is looking to maintain the consistency it’s found under Mark Stoops. Of course, the Wildcats almost lost their coach this offseason, but it’s hard to count out another bowl game appearance this year.

UK made one of the more interesting splashes in the portal, bringing in former Georgia quarterback Brock Vandagriff after Devin Leary headed to the NFL. Along with 18 returning starts, the Wildcats could find themselves with an opportunity to play spoiler, although Phil Steele ranked them tied for 11th in his predictions.

T-11. Auburn

Jake Crandall | USA TODAY NETWORK

Year 1 for Hugh Freeze at Auburn was a rough go, but the Tigers still made it to a bowl game. Despite some big moves in the portal – notably landing former Penn State receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith – Phil Steele doesn’t see the Tigers finishing in the top half of the SEC.

Payton Thorne is back at quarterback and received a big vote of confidence from Freeze this offseason, and a leap forward could be in the cards. However, Steele said Auburn could use one more year before becoming a real player in the league as Freeze rebuilds.

14. Arkansas

Nelson Chenault | USA TODAY Sports

All eyes are on Fayetteville this year as Sam Pittman enters a crucial year at Arkansas. He moved on from offensive coordinator Dan Enos part-way through his first year with the Razorbacks, and the 2024 season could be important for Pittman’s future with the program.

KJ Jefferson is out after transferring to UCF, meaning it could be Taylen Green’s show at quarterback. Nonetheless, it’s looking like it could be another rough year for Arkansas, which came in at No. 14 in Phil Steele’s SEC predictions.

15. Mississippi State

Jeff Lebby (BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK)

After Zach Arnett lasted less than a season as Mississippi State head coach, replacing the late Mike Leach, Jeff Lebby is now in. As far as how the Bulldogs will fare in his first season, Phil Steele expects a rough go.

Blake Shapen is in at quarterback to run Lebby’s spread offense, but MSU only has 10 starters coming back. Add in a challenging schedule, and it has the makings for a bumpy ride for the new headman.

15. Vanderbilt

Clark Lea, Vanderbilt – © Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Clark Lea made some big changes this offseason – moving on from both coordinators – but Vanderbilt could be in for another tough year in 2024. The Commodores notably lost quarterback Ken Seals and wide receiver London Humphreys to the transfer portal, adding to the new faces in Nashville.

Vanderbilt has struggled in three years under Lea after he took on a tough job in the portal landscape. Phil Steele expects the Commodores to finish at the bottom of the SEC again, though, although they do have some experience coming back.

The SEC will officially welcome Oklahoma and Texas July 1, kicking off its new era. It will also mark the beginning of the league’s new media rights deal, meaning games will no longer air on CBS as they move exclusively to ESPN and ABC.

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https://sports.yahoo.com/lindy-sports-shares-strengths-potential-180037772.html?

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https://sports.yahoo.com/know-incoming-auburn-lt-percy-190009822.html?

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