Top Offensive Performers of Auburn Football: A Comprehensive Analysis

A Season In Review: Assessing Auburn’s Offensive Players in Hugh Freeze Era

As the first regular season of the Hugh Freeze era comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the performance of the Auburn Tigers. With a 6-6 record, Auburn is striving to regain national relevancy. Now, the team eagerly awaits their bowl game, aiming for their first bowl win since the 2018 Music City Bowl.

Under Freeze’s leadership, Auburn averaged 355 yards per game, ranking 10th best in the SEC. The team’s standout performance was its rushing game, ranking 3rd in the SEC with an impressive average of 198 yards per contest.

According to Pro Football Focus, Auburn’s top 10 offensive players played a crucial role in the team’s success. Unveiling these players who appeared in at least nine games during the regular season, the list includes:

Ja’varrius Johnson
PFF Grade: 78.2

Auburn’s top offensive player Ja’varrius Johnson appeared in nine games, recording 19 catches for 347 yards and three touchdowns. His 18.3 yards per catch showcase his impact on the team’s offense.

Payton Thorne
PFF Grade: 77.6

In his first season at Auburn, Thorne exhibited unwavering consistency as both a runner and passer. His performance includes a 62.3% completion rate, 15 “big time throws”, and 82 plays resulting in 1st downs.

Jarquez Hunter
PFF Grade: 76.4

Despite a slow start, Jarquez Hunter concluded the regular season with a notable 865 yards and seven touchdowns. He also forced 35 missed tackles and added 612 yards after contact.

Damari Alston
PFF Grade: 74.5

Alston excelled as a complimentary back to Hunter, achieving career-bests with 297 rushing yards and two touchdowns. His ability to add an extra 155 yards after initial contact made a significant impact on the team.

Jeremiah Cobb
PFF Grade: 73.2

Cobb, in his true freshman campaign, notably earned playing time in 10 games and ended the regular season with 168 yards on 30 carries. He displayed great potential with five runs of longer than 10 yards.

Brian Battie
PFF Grade: 72.1

Although known for his return game, Battie’s successful season in Auburn’s backfield showcased his ability to force missed tackles and excel in creating yardage after initial contact.

Brandon Frazier
PFF Grade: 71.5

Frazier played a pivotal role in enabling Auburn’s skill players to make plays, demonstrating his value as an interior tight end.

Jay Fair
PFF Grade: 70.3

Fair, motivated by preseason hype, proved himself as Auburn’s third-leading receiver, registering 300 yards on 30 catches.

Robby Ashford
PFF Grade: 67.7

Ashford, tactfully transitioning into a rotational quarterback role, showcased his strengths as a runner, accumulating 217 yards on 46 carries with five scores.

Kam Stutts
PFF Grade: 62.9

Stutts, a valuable offensive lineman, participated in 526 snaps, demonstrating his effectiveness as a pass blocker. With only 10 total quarterback pressures allowed, his solid performance was a key contributor to Auburn’s offensive success.

With these top offensive players, Auburn is looking forward to building on their achievements and establishing a strong foundation for the future under the guidance of Hugh Freeze.

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