Is Jarquez Hunter Auburn's offensive MVP?

Auburn’s offense was less than spectacular last season as it finished No. 11 in the SEC with an average of 351 yards per game. Scoring-wise, the Tigers also finished No. 11 in the conference by scoring 26.1 points per contest.

The only consistent aspect of Auburn’s offense was running back Jarquez Hunter, who ended the season with 909 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Despite Auburn’s additions to its receiver room, Auburn’s success will still depend heavily on Hunter.

ESPN’s Bill Connelly revealed that Hunter is his favorite Auburn player in his SEC preview, and explained just how valuable Hunter was to the Tigers’ offense in 2023.

When Hunter got rolling, Auburn had a chance. Not counting games against UMass and Samford, when Hunter averaged at least 6.0 yards per carry, the Tigers averaged 30.2 points per game and went 3-2; when he didn’t, they averaged 14.2 PPG and went 1-5. He averaged 3.6 yards per carry after contact and ground out 6.4 yards per carry between the tackles. Just imagine what he could have done if Auburn could throw even a little.

Connelly also expects Auburn’s passing game to be upgraded this season due to transfers KeAndre Lambert-Smith and Robert Lewis, as well as incoming freshmen Cam Coleman and Perry Thompson. Auburn will look to improve upon its No. 102 ranked passing success rate in 2024 with an improved offensive line and revamped targets for quarterback Payton Thorne to pass to.

Contact/Follow us @TheAuburnWire on X (Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Auburn news, notes, and opinions. You can also follow Taylor on Twitter @TaylorJones__