The Leadership Auburn Needed and the Direction Auburn Deserves

Auburn University has taken a bold and confident step forward, and every Auburn fan ought to be proud of the leadership shown by Athletic Director John Cohen and President Christopher Roberts. They made a hire that reflects strength, vision, and a commitment to bringing Auburn football back to the national stage where it belongs. Alex Golesh is exactly the kind of coach Auburn needs. He is tough, he is driven, he is innovative, and he understands how to build a winning culture that players believe in and rally behind. He brings the fire and the hunger that define Auburn at its best. As Bruce Pearl simply states; "I like the team were putting together."

One of the smartest decisions made right out of the gate was keeping Defensive Coordinator DJ Durkin. Auburn had one of the best defenses in the nation because of DJ's leadership and the way his players respond to him. They trust him, they respect him, and they take the field ready to fight for every inch. Keeping him in place sends a message to the entire country that Auburn is not interested in starting over. Auburn is interested in winning and winning now.

Coach Golesh also strengthened the program by bringing in his long term associate Joel Gordon as Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach. Gordon is known for creativity, for developing quarterbacks, and for building fast, attacking offenses that put pressure on opponents and take advantage of athletic talent all over the field. This is exactly the kind of offensive identity Auburn has needed. Adding Auburn National Champion Cody Burns brings heart, tradition, and Auburn family pride right into the core of the staff. He knows what Auburn means and he knows what it takes to put a trophy in the case.

Recruiting is the lifeblood of success and Golesh has proven he knows how to recruit with intensity and purpose. Auburn already has outstanding athletes on this roster. With this staff in place the sky is the limit. The competition between Deuce and Daniels at quarterback will make both young men better and will raise the bar for the entire offense. Whoever wins that job will earn it the right way. And in my humble opinion Auburn should place a strong focus on tight ends. Great tight ends change games. They create mismatches, open up the field, and give the quarterback a dependable target. Auburn has the chance to elevate this offense dramatically by adding the right tight ends through recruiting and the portal.

As Coach Pat Dye always reminded us you don't win with talent. You win with toughness and togetherness. Auburn now has a coach who embodies that truth and a staff that reflects it. The foundation is in place and the future is bright. A new era has begun on the Plains and it is one every Auburn fan can look toward with pride and confidence..

Perry Hooper is a former state representative, the former President of the Montgomery Quarterback Club, the father of three sons who all played college football (two for Auburn), and a widely published political columnist.

Opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Alabama Gazette staff or publishers.