Golesh details Auburn’s offensive line changes

Auburn reshuffled its offensive line against Arkansas after Wilson Zierer was limited in practice, while a planned rotation at right guard gave Cole Skinner another opportunity.

Jacob Strand returned to the starting lineup at right tackle in place of Zierer, a true freshman, giving Auburn its fifth different starting combination of the season. Coach Alex Golesh said Zierer was “banged up” earlier in the week and missed most of Tuesday’s practice. The staff felt more comfortable starting Strand.

The adjustment did not last through the game. Zierer replaced Strand after the Oregon State transfer exited with an injury.

Auburn also changed personnel at right guard after Jacobe’ Ward made his second consecutive start. Skinner replaced Ward early, returning to a role he held at the beginning of the season before his last start in Week 3.

Golesh said Auburn entered the game planning to play Skinner because of his physicality. The staff intended to rotate the guards and then stay with the player who was fresh and offered the best chance to win in each situation.

With that rotation, Auburn rushed for 183 yards and allowed one sack, though the performance came against one of the SEC’s worst defensive fronts.

The unit’s execution improved after repeated changes to its starting combination. Auburn now must determine whether the rotation can provide similar results through the final three games of the season.

Why it matters

Auburn rushed for 183 yards and allowed one sack with another new starting combination. The rotation gave the staff options at right guard while injuries forced another adjustment at right tackle.

What to watch next

Auburn will try to repeat the line’s Arkansas performance over the final three games of the season.