Auburn Football: Top 3 way-too-early 2022 breakout candidates

1. Tank Bigsby, RB

Auburn football was (at one point) considered to be the true ‘RBU’, having produced a number of incredible NFL talents at the position. Not the least of which includes Joe Cribbs, James Brooks, Carnell Williams, Ronnie Brown and, most notably, Bo Jackson.

However, in recent years the Tigers have fallen off mightily, with their last 1,000-yard rusher being Kerryon Johnson in 2017 (who is currently an NFL free agent).

Despite their astounding lack of success at the position, Tank Bigsby has the opportunity to emerge as one of the best running backs the program’s seen in years. Perhaps even the top back in the SEC, let alone the country.

Even though one could argue that Bigsby already had his breakout year in 2021, finishing his sophomore campaign with 1,099 yards and 10 touchdowns on 223 carries (4.9 yards per carry). I expect these numbers to rise once again as he becomes the focal point of a depleted offense.

I’ve already mentioned how Auburn lost a number of their top receivers from a year ago, as well as their starting quarterback. With most expecting it to become somewhat of an open competition in both positions this offseason.

But the Tigers also bid farewell to senior running back Shaun Shivers, who was a staple in the rotation, and the only real competition Bigsby had.

Obviously, Auburn’s run blocking will need to improve, as they were one of the worst units in college football last year. Though the good news is that four of their seniors (three starters) return on the offensive line, a group that typically feeds off familiarity. Including Keiondre Jones, who received one of the highest grades for run blocking and pass blocking in 2021, via Pro Football Focus.

With the lack of experience and depth at both quarterback and wide receiver, you can bet that the Tigers’ offense in 2022 will rely heavily on the run game to move the ball downfield. Except this time around Bigsby won’t have anybody in front of him to steal the spotlight.

Expect Tank Bigsby to smash the already high expectations set out for him as he enters his pivotal junior year at Auburn.