The Up Tempo podcast

Auburn football continues to build its roster in key areas, adding much-needed help at cornerback and along the offensive line. In this episode, we break down the newest additions, why these positions were such a priority, and how they fit into Auburn's plans moving forward. We discuss what these moves mean for protecting the quarterback, improving pass defense, and creating real competition heading into the season. Are these players immediate impact starters or important depth pieces? And how do these additions shape Auburn's overall roster outlook? From the trenches to the secondary, we take a closer look at how Auburn is strengthening its foundation and what it could mean on Saturdays this fall. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn hits the transfer portal once again, this time adding another quarterback to the mix. In this episode, I break down what this new QB addition means for the Tigers, how it impacts the current quarterback room, and whether it truly moves the needle heading into the season. I also take a deeper look at Auburn's roster as a whole, identifying the biggest positions of need that still remain and where the Tigers should continue to attack the transfer portal. Is Auburn close to a complete roster, or is there still work to be done? Let's talk portal season and what's next for Auburn football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn continues to reshape its roster through the transfer portal, and Alex Golesh isn't done adding pieces. In this episode, we break down Auburn's latest transfer additions, taking a closer look at where each newcomer fits, what they bring on the field, and how they could impact the Tigers heading into the upcoming season. From positional needs to depth chart implications, we analyze how these portal moves factor into Auburn's roster construction and overall direction moving forward Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into Auburn's latest moves in the transfer portal and what they mean for the program moving forward. I break down each of the new additions — who they are, how they fit, and where they can make an immediate impact. From potential game-changers on offense to key depth pieces on defense, we'll explore how these transfers reshape Auburn's outlook for the upcoming season. Tune in for analysis, insight, and what to expect next from the Tigers heading into the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I take a step back and evaluate Auburn's latest transfer portal additions in context. I discuss what each addition brings based on prior production and experience, how they fit Auburn's current roster needs, and what their arrival means for competition and depth across the team. The focus is on realistic expectations and how these moves shape Auburn's outlook moving forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn makes a major splash in the transfer portal with the addition of former USF quarterback Byrum Brown. In this episode, we break down what Brown brings to the Tigers, how his skill set fits Auburn's offense, and what his arrival means for the quarterback room moving forward. Is this the missing piece Auburn needed on offense? We discuss expectations, the impact on competition, and how this move could shape the Tigers' season ahead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

-Auburn football has no shortage of questions heading into the offseason, and for Alex Golesh, the transfer portal sits at the top of the to-do list. In this episode, we break down where the Tigers are thin, which position groups are most urgent, and how aggressive Auburn can — and must — be in the portal to stay competitive in the SEC. What's realistic, what's risky, and what success actually looks like for Golesh in his first major roster overhaul. Can Auburn fix its flaws fast enough, or is this a longer rebuild than fans want to admit? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The transfer portal is officially open, and Auburn is ready to make some noise. On this live show, I break down what the portal means for the Tigers, where Auburn is looking to make big moves, and how these potential additions could shape the future of the program. We'll talk targets, team needs, and what fans should be watching as roster season heats up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn football is undergoing a serious culture reset. In this episode, we break down how Alex Golesh is “cleaning house” — cutting ties with habits, mindsets, and behaviors that have held the program back. From accountability and leadership to locker-room standards and long-term vision, we examine what a toxic culture looks like, how it forms, and why Golesh believes real change has to start off the field before it shows up on Saturdays. Is this the reset Auburn fans have been waiting for, or just another rebuild buzzword? Let's dig in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn's roster is going to look very different next season—and that's not something to fear. In this episode, we break down why roster turnover is part of the modern game, what these changes mean for the future of the program, and why Auburn fans shouldn't panic. From departures to new opportunities, we discuss how change can actually set Auburn up for success and why a fresh look doesn't mean lowered expectations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I break down why Alex Golesh might be the right coach for Auburn—without making promises or guarantees. Using context, scheme fit, program needs, and coaching background, I lay out the specific reasons this hire has a realistic path to success if certain things go right. This isn't hype and it isn't blind optimism; it's an analytical look at why the process, philosophy, and timing of the Golesh hire make sense for Auburn. We'll examine what Auburn needs right now, how Golesh's approach aligns with that, and what ultimately has to happen for this move to work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn enters the offseason facing a familiar—but complex—quarterback question. With new head coach Alex Golesh bringing a quarterback background and portal experience, and talented freshman Deuce Knight already on the roster, the Tigers must decide how to balance immediate stability with long-term development. In this episode, we break down Auburn's quarterback situation through a roster-management lens. Rather than framing it as a simple choice between the transfer portal and player development, we explore why there's a realistic path forward that includes both. We discuss fit, timelines, development curves, and how modern college football staffs build QB rooms in the portal era—without sacrificing the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn football fans are seeing transfer portal announcements roll in — and for some, the panic button is getting close. But this episode is about taking a breath and looking at the bigger picture. Portal season is a two-way street, and Auburn is far from finished. We break down why these departures don't spell disaster, how the upcoming portal window gives Auburn a real chance to upgrade talent and fit, and why a culture reset was not only inevitable, but necessary for the program's future. Change is uncomfortable, but it can also be the foundation for something better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Several Auburn players have announced their intentions to enter the transfer portal, and it's sparked plenty of debate across the fanbase. Is this a warning sign for the program, or simply the reality of college football when a new head coach takes over? In this episode, we break down who's leaving, why roster turnover is common during coaching transitions, and what it actually means for Auburn's future. We'll discuss whether these departures should raise concern, how the transfer portal fits into the new college football landscape, and what fans should be watching as the offseason unfolds. Is it time to worry—or is this just part of the process on the Plains? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn's struggles in the trenches continue to hold the program back, and it's time to talk about why. In this episode, we break down Auburn's ongoing offensive line recruiting issues, the lack of development at the position, and how it's directly impacted the team's success. We also discuss DeAndre Carter entering the transfer portal and what it means for Auburn's depth up front, plus take a look at new offensive line coach Tyler Hudanick and what he must do to fix one of Auburn football's biggest problems. Winning starts in the trenches — and Auburn has to be better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we break down the latest Auburn football news as Malcolm Simmons officially enters the transfer portal and what his decision means for the Tigers moving forward. We discuss potential reasons behind the move, how it impacts Auburn's roster, and what to watch for next. We also take a deep dive into Auburn's newly released 2026 schedule, breaking down key matchups, tough stretches, and opportunities for the Tigers to make noise. From home vs. away games to early takeaways on how the slate sets up, we analyze what fans should be excited — and concerned — about looking ahead. It's all Auburn football, all the latest updates, and a full breakdown you won't want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Alex Golesh the catalyst Auburn needs to finally shake off a culture of inconsistency and physicality issues? In this episode, we dive deep into what Golesh brings to The Plains—his philosophy, his track record, and whether his approach can truly reset Auburn's identity on and off the field. Joining us is special guest Darrell Dapprich, who brings sharp insight and honest perspective on Auburn's recent struggles, the toughness question, and how a cultural overhaul really happens inside a college football program. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Auburn Tigers basketball team have started the season 7-3. What are some things we like and what are things that may be cause for concern as the Tigers move forward into SEC play. Dustin breaks down Auburn's 2025-2026 basketball team 10 games into season! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we break down Alex Golesh's no-nonsense Monday press conference, where the Auburn head coach delivered a firm message about commitment, culture, and the kind of players he wants in the program moving forward. We'll dive into his standout comments on why being “all-in” on Auburn matters now more than ever, and how that mindset is shaping the Tigers' identity. Golesh also had high praise for defensive coordinator DJ Durkin, highlighting the impact he's making and what his leadership means for Auburn's evolving defensive philosophy. And of course, we'll get into the big question on everyone's mind: the future of the Tigers' quarterback room. From talent development to long-term vision, we'll discuss Golesh's plans and what fans should expect next. Tune in for analysis, key takeaways, and what this press conference tells us about where Auburn football is heading. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn University is sending a loud message to the college football world: they're all-in on Alex Golesh. In this episode, we dive into the Tigers' major financial commitment to their new head coach and what it signals about the program's long-term ambitions. We examine how Auburn plans to support Golesh—from upgraded resources and expanded recruiting operations to a revamped staff infrastructure designed to fuel his high-tempo, modern approach. What risks come with such a massive investment? And what rewards could Auburn reap if it pays off? Tune in as we break down the strategy, the stakes, and the potential impact of Auburn's bold move to build a new era around Coach Golesh. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dustin and Nick discuss what expectations for new Auburn head coach Alex Golesh should be in his first year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me live as we dive into Auburn football's 2026 high school recruiting class — breaking down the biggest commits, surprise flips, and rising prospects to watch. I'll give you instant reactions, insightful analysis, and some bold predictions on how this class could shape the Tigers' future. Whether you're a die-hard Auburn fan or just love college football recruiting, this is your go-to recap of the 2026 class. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into the latest shakeup on the Plains as Auburn makes two major coaching announcements. DJ Durkin is returning as defensive coordinator after already serving in the role, bringing continuity, familiarity, and a renewed chance to elevate the Tigers' defense. We break down what his return means for Auburn's scheme, culture, and on-field expectations. On the offensive side, an Auburn legend is coming home. Kodi Burns—national champion, fan favorite, and rising coaching talent—has been named associate head coach and co-offensive coordinator. We explore how his energy, experience, and deep Auburn roots could impact recruiting, player development, and the identity of the Tigers' offense. Tune in as we unpack why these moves matter, how they reshape Auburn's trajectory, and what fans should expect heading into the next season. Whether you're a lifelong Tiger or just love keeping up with college football's biggest storylines, this episode has you covered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn Football has officially turned the page with the introduction of new head coach Alex Golesh — and his opening press conference did not disappoint. In this episode, we break down the biggest moments, key takeaways, and early signals about the direction of the program under Golesh's leadership. From his vision for Auburn's future to his immediate priorities and the tone he set on day one, we dive into what his debut at the podium means for the team, the fans, and the season ahead. Whether you're fired up, curious, or cautiously optimistic, this episode unpacks everything you need to know from Golesh's first official appearance on The Plains. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I break down my initial reactions to Auburn Football's decision to hire Alex Golesh as the program's 33rd head football coach. From his offensive pedigree to what his leadership could mean for Auburn's immediate future, I dive into the opportunities, questions, and excitement surrounding this pivotal hire. Whether you're an Auburn fan hungry for insight or just curious about one of college football's newest coaching moves, this episode sets the stage for what could be a transformative era on The Plains. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dustin and Nick react to the breakings news that Auburn has hired Alex Golesh to be the Tigers next head football coach! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dustin and Nick react to Auburn's 27-20 loss to the Alabama Crimson Tide! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, we cut through all the noise surrounding Auburn football — the portal drama, coordinator debates, recruiting panic, NIL arguments, culture talk, all of it. None of that matters if Auburn doesn't get the head coaching hire right. This is the decision that will shape the program for the next decade, and the athletic department cannot afford to miss again. We break down what Auburn truly needs in its next leader, why alignment and stability matter more than buzzwords, the pitfalls that have held the program back, and how one right hire can change everything — from player retention to recruiting to on-field results. Auburn fans deserve a real plan, not quick fixes, and it all starts with choosing the right head coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this electrifying episode, we break down one of the most unforgettable debuts in Auburn football history. Freshman quarterback Deuce Knight didn't just step onto the field—he took it over, accounting for six total touchdowns in his first career start as Auburn rolled past Mercer in a dominant 62–17 victory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this reaction episode, we break down the Tigers' dominant 62–17 victory over the Mercer Bears, highlighted by Deuce Knight's jaw-dropping six-touchdown performance. We dive into how Auburn's offense exploded, what Knight's breakout game means for the season, standout plays on both sides of the ball, and why this win sends a clear message about the Tigers' direction. Whether you're riding the hype or looking for deeper analysis, this episode has you covered. War Eagle — let's talk about it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new chapter begins on the Plains. This week, we break down Auburn football's decision to give freshman quarterback Deuce Knight his first career start. What does Knight bring to the offense? How might the playbook change? And what should Auburn fans realistically expect on Saturday? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jon Sumrall's name is gaining traction in Auburn conversations, but Tulane's postseason push could make any pursuit far from straightforward. In this episode, we break down how a hot coaching candidate juggling a high-stakes postseason run can reshape the hiring timelines of programs like Auburn—and why this scenario has the entire college football world watching closely. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we break down Auburn interim head coach D.J. Durkin's decision to start Jackson Arnold and Deuce Knight at quarterback against Mercer — a move clearly designed to preserve Ashton Daniels' redshirt. With Daniels having played in three games already this season, Durkin is walking a tightrope between short-term wins and long-term roster planning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we break down a thriller that came down to the final possession: Auburn's narrow 73–72 loss to the Houston Cougars. We recap the key moments that shaped the game, from Auburn's explosive first-half run to Houston's late defensive stand that sealed the Tigers' fate. We'll dive into standout performances, clutch plays, coaching decisions, and where Auburn goes from here after a gut-punch finish. Was this a missed opportunity or a promising sign of what this team is capable of? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Auburn's Make-or-Break Moment: Cohen's Hire and the Program's Future, we dive deep into the most pivotal coaching search Auburn has faced in years. Athletic Director John Cohen has a monumental decision ahead of him, and we're breaking down exactly what traits, philosophies, and leadership qualities Auburn must prioritize in its next head football coach. -Special guest Mike G joins the show, bringing his trademark insight, analysis, and straight talk as we tackle the big questions shaping Auburn's future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into the latest buzz surrounding Auburn football's search for its next head coach. With the position wide open, names like Jon Sumrall and DJ Durkin are generating serious attention — but who really fits the program's vision moving forward? We break down the top trending candidates, what each brings to the table, and what the next steps in Auburn's hiring process could look like. Whether you're a die-hard Tigers fan or just following the SEC drama, this is the insider discussion you don't want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Auburn hired Hugh Freeze, the hope was revival — offensive innovation, recruiting momentum, and a return to SEC contention. Instead, it ended in disappointment, inconsistency, and another hard reset on the Plains. In this episode, we break down why the Freeze era failed, how it revealed deeper issues within Auburn's program culture, and most importantly, what the university can learn moving forward. From leadership misalignment and scheme stagnation to lessons in hiring strategy and fit, this conversation goes beyond the scoreboard to uncover the real takeaways from the Hugh Freeze experiment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another tough night for the Tigers. Auburn battled hard but came up short in a 45–38 overtime loss to a disciplined and confident Vanderbilt squad. In this episode, we break down how Auburn's effort wasn't enough against one of the SEC's most improved teams. We'll dig into the details — where the defense broke down, what went right on offense, and how Vanderbilt's balanced attack kept Auburn on its heels. We'll also talk about the bigger picture: what this loss says about Auburn's season trajectory, player development, and the coaching staff's future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The national media keeps pushing the same tired story about Auburn football — that it's a “bad job,” that fans are too impatient, and that coaches aren't given time to succeed. In this episode, I push back on that narrative head-on. I break down why those claims don't hold up, and I specifically address recent comments made by Chris Low and Joel Klatt, who've both added fuel to the misconceptions surrounding the Auburn program. It's time to set the record straight and remind everyone what makes Auburn one of the most passionate and powerful programs in college football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we break down Auburn Athletic Director John Cohen's press conference following the firing of Hugh Freeze. Cohen didn't hold back when addressing the decision, the program's direction, and the appointment of DJ Durkin as interim head coach. We'll go through the most important quotes, what they reveal about Auburn's internal outlook, and what comes next for the Tigers as they look to stabilize the program and rebuild trust on and off the field. Whether you're an Auburn fan, an SEC follower, or just love college football drama, this episode dives deep into the story shaping the Plains. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

— Hugh Freeze is out at Auburn. In this episode, we break down the dramatic end to Freeze's tenure: the 4-5 start to the 2025 season, the loss to Kentucky that sealed his fate, and the uphill battle that defined his 15-19 overall record (6-16 in the SEC). We'll dig into the key question: why did a coach who signed top-10 recruiting classes and promised a turnaround at a historic program ultimately fail to deliver? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn football hits rock bottom. After an embarrassing 10–3 loss to Kentucky, fans are furious — and the calls for Hugh Freeze's firing are getting louder by the hour. In this episode, we break down what went wrong on offense, how Auburn's play-calling has completely stalled, and why this program looks more lost than ever under Freeze's leadership. Is it time for a clean slate before things get even worse? Join us as we unpack the chaos, vent the frustrations, and discuss what's next for Auburn football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Auburn football finds itself at a crossroads — and special guest Kyle Rush joins the show to break it all down. Will Hugh Freeze be back on the sidelines next season, or is Auburn preparing for another coaching shake-up? Can Ashton Daniels be the spark the Tigers need to turn things around? We also dive into how the rapidly changing landscape of college football — from NIL to the transfer portal — has completely reshaped what it takes to succeed as a head coach in today's game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices