Alex Golesh says Auburn will ‘run the heck out of the ball’ in 2026
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Amidst a crowded and similarly desperate SEC, Alex Golesh is trying to turn Auburn back into a consistent contender within the league’s upper-echelon.
And to do so, the new head coach believes that bringing a reliable rushing attack back to the plains is just what the Tigers need.
At a recent media availability, Golesh emphasized that he and his staff plan to utilize the ground game early and often while they’re in town.
“We’re going to run the heck out of the ball. That’s where it starts for us,” Golesh said. “I don’t care what league you’re in: You have to be able to run the football.”
Golesh’s work at adding running backs out of the portal likely plays a large factor in that mindset. Bryson Washington brings over 1,800 rushing yards and 20 total touchdowns with him from Baylor, while Troy transfer Tae Meadows enjoyed a breakout junior campaign and should be motivated to perform well in his home state.
The improvement on the ground would likely be a welcomed one for Auburn fans. Despite a breakout season from junior Jeremiah Cobb, the Tigers still only averaged 176.3 rushing yards per game last season.
Conversely, Golesh’s 2025 South Florida Bulls produced 210.2 yards per game via the ground, which played a large factor in the program finishing with a 9-4 overall record.
Parker is currently the sports editor for the Enterprise-Journal in McComb, Mississippi. He's a graduate from Mizzou who has experience covering the Tiger football and basketball beats for SB Nation, and he's worked for a variety of sports news outlets in the past.
