The Auburn Tigers are expanding Tanner Burns’ responsibilities, promoting him from special teams coordinator to nickels coach while maintaining his current role. This adjustment aims to strengthen Auburn’s secondary by having Burns contribute more directly to defensive strategies, particularly with the nickels.
Burns’ Background and Role Expansion
- Current Role: Special teams coordinator for Auburn over the last two seasons.
- Past Experience: Worked with head coach Hugh Freeze at Liberty before joining Auburn.
- New Responsibilities: In addition to special teams, Burns will now focus on the secondary, particularly the nickels, as Auburn plans to hire a separate coach for the edge position.
Auburn’s Defensive Performance
- 2023 Pass Defense: Auburn ranked high, allowing 202.2 passing yards per game, one of the best in the SEC.
- 2024 Pass Defense: A slight decline to 213 passing yards allowed per game, moving from the third to the ninth spot in the SEC.
- Overall Defense: Despite the dip in pass defense, Auburn improved overall, reducing points allowed from 294 in 2023 to 256 in 2024.
Special Teams Success
Burns has significantly impacted Auburn’s special teams, contributing to their high national ranking in several categories, including ninth in punt return defense in the most recent season.
Future Outlook
With Burns enhancing the defensive coaching staff and potentially translating his special teams success to the secondary, Auburn aims to regain its top-tier pass defense status. Combined with offensive improvements, this could position Auburn as a serious contender in the SEC.
