Auburn is gearing up for a significant change in their coaching staff as they prepare to welcome Chad Lunsford as their new special teams coordinator. This move comes after the departure of Tanner Burns, who recently joined the staff at Texas State. With Lunsford’s impressive resume, the Tigers are optimistic about his potential to help elevate the program back to prominence in the SEC.
Chad Lunsford: A Familiar Face
This will not be Lunsford’s first stint with Auburn. He previously served as the Director of Scouting and Player Personnel from 2009 to 2013. Now, he will take on a more hands-on role in game-day operations, focusing on the special teams unit. His experience as a former head coach at Georgia Southern and his recent tenure at FAU, where he was the interim head coach to conclude the 2024 season, adds depth to his qualifications.
Lunsford’s hiring marks a pivotal moment for the Tigers, who are looking to solidify their special teams as a critical component of their overall strategy. With a proven track record, Lunsford is expected to bring fresh ideas and energy to the role, making him a valuable asset as Auburn aims to improve its performance on the field.
Paul Finebaum’s Take on Auburn’s Future
Amidst these changes, college football analyst Paul Finebaum has expressed his interest in Auburn as they look ahead to the 2025 season. Despite the Tigers finishing with a disappointing 5-7 record last year, Finebaum sees potential in the program under head coach Hugh Freeze. He acknowledges that Freeze’s overall record of 11-14 during his time at Auburn raises questions, but Finebaum remains optimistic about the direction the team is headed.
When discussing the SEC landscape, Finebaum highlighted Auburn among other notable teams, including Tennessee and Georgia. He noted, “I’m also strangely bullish – and I don’t think it’s strange but, every time I bring this up to somebody, they shoot me down. But I like what I see from Auburn.” This sentiment reflects a growing belief that the Tigers are on the cusp of a turnaround.
Recruiting and Player Development
One of the key factors contributing to Finebaum’s optimism is Auburn’s recruiting efforts. He stated, “I’m very impressed with the recruiting of Auburn.” In a time when college football has become increasingly national and global, Finebaum believes that maintaining a strong recruiting base in Alabama is essential for the Tigers. He emphasized the importance of internal pride and the work Freeze is doing to foster a competitive environment.
However, Finebaum also cautioned that all the positive momentum could be for naught if Auburn fails to achieve a winning record. The Tigers have struggled to break the six-win barrier for several seasons now, and the pressure is mounting for Freeze to deliver results in 2025. “It really doesn’t matter and it won’t matter if he doesn’t have a big year but I do like the momentum there,” he added.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Recovery
As Auburn prepares for the upcoming season, the focus will be on improving their overall performance and making strides in the SEC. With Lunsford stepping in as special teams coordinator, the Tigers are hopeful that his expertise will translate into better on-field results. Special teams play can often be the difference between winning and losing close games, and Auburn is determined to make it a strength of their program.
The combination of Lunsford’s experience, Freeze’s vision, and Finebaum’s endorsement creates an intriguing narrative for Auburn as they head into the new season. Will they finally break free from the cycle of mediocrity that has plagued them in recent years? The answer lies in their ability to harness this momentum and translate it into tangible success on the field.
Final Thoughts on Auburn’s Journey
In conclusion, the hiring of Chad Lunsford as special teams coordinator is a significant step for Auburn as they look to reinvigorate their program. The excitement surrounding the team is palpable, especially with analysts like Paul Finebaum expressing confidence in their potential. The Tigers are at a crossroads, and the upcoming season will be crucial in determining whether they can reclaim their status as a formidable force in college football.
As fans eagerly await the start of the season, one thing is clear: Auburn has the opportunity to turn the tide and make a statement in the SEC. With a renewed focus on special teams and a commitment to recruiting, the Tigers are poised to make a comeback. Will this be the year they rise to the challenge? Only time will tell, but the anticipation is certainly building in Auburn and beyond.
