As the Auburn Tigers begin spring practice, many fans and media are focused on what occurs at the quarterback position. The Auburn faithful should have complete confidence in one group on this roster: the running backs. The Tigers’ running back depth is among the strongest in the SEC. They also have plenty of experience. Last season, the team ranked fourth in the SEC in terms of rushing yards per game (189). Quarterback Payton Thorne was a key member of the rushing assault, totaling 515 yards and ranking second on the team. Robby Ashford scored five touchdowns, but after the season, he transferred to South Carolina.

Derrick Nix will take over as the unit’s position coach, replacing Carnell “Cadillac” Williams. Nix will also serve as offensive coordinator, while Williams has moved on to the NFL as running backs coach for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Following the 2023 season, the Tigers received fantastic news that Jarquez Hunter would return for another season on the plains. Last season, Hunter carried for 909 yards and seven touchdowns. Hunter began the season suspended due to off-the-field troubles and had a difficult start when he returned to the lineup. He had not rushed for more over 60 yards until October 21st, when he gained 91 yards in a 28-21 loss to Ole Miss. Hunter

The Tigers followed it with three straight games of 100 yards or more against Mississippi State, Vanderbilt, and Arkansas, during which they went undefeated. He finished the regular season with 93 yards in the sad defeat to Alabama. Hunter should aim to surpass 1,000 yards this season with a productive full season.

While Hunter was sidelined early due to a ban and slow performance, Damari Alston was handicapped by an injury. In 2023, he ran for 320 yards and two touchdowns on 64 carries. On the good side, he averaged five yards per attempt. He was disabled early in a defeat to Texas A&M in September and did not play again for a month due to a strained shoulder. Alston played well in the Iron Bowl, gaining 85 yards on ten carries and one touchdown. He is an explosive player who, when healthy, provides the Tigers with a dynamic offensive option.