Tank Bigsby reveals how new OC will impact run game: 'We're going to run it more'

Tank Bigsby was a focal point of the Auburn offense last season, and it looks like he will be again after deciding to stay on The Plains. With a new offensive coordinator calling the shots, he’s preparing to see plenty of action on the field.

The Tigers fired Mike Bobo after less than a full season with the program, and Austin Davis took the job before resigning 43 days later. After a pursuit of embattled Arizona State offensive coordinator Zak Hill, according to Auburn Live’s Justin Hokanson, Bryan Harsin ended up promoting wide receivers coach Eric Kiesau to the role. Kiesau previously worked as the offensive coordinator at Boise State in 2020 and under his watch, the Broncos averaged 32.7 rushing attempts per game that year.

But with a running back of Bigsby’s caliber, Auburn could increase its average rushing attempts from 34.1 last year, a mark that ranked second to last in the SEC. It’s safe to say he’s ready.

“I feel like we’re going to run it more,” Bigsby said at SEC Media Days. “I feel like we’re going to run the ball. That’s what Auburn’s known for. Running the ball, running backs. Great running backs. I feel like that’s what we’re going to do.”

Bigsby had a huge year in 2021, taking 223 carries for 1,099 yards and 21 touchdowns to help lead the Auburn offense. With the quarterback competition still ongoing, he’s sure to be a fixture in the Tigers’ scheme once again in 2022.

Tank Bigsby weighs in on Auburn’s QB competition

One important question mark for Bryan Harsin and Auburn in 2022 is who will replace Bo Nix at quarterback. The competition between TJ Finley and Texas A&M transfer Zach Calzada was a hot topic at SEC Media Days, and Bigsby shared his thoughts with reporters.

Nix entered the transfer portal and committed to Oregon, so Auburn dove into the portal to bring in Calzada. However, it’s not a sure thing that he’ll start after Finley started for the Tigers after Nix’s injury last year. But Bigsby, one of the focal points of the offense, said the competition will be decided by one important factor.

“It’s going to come down to whoever wants it the most,” Bigsby said. “Just as it’s going to be like on the weekends, Saturdays, it’s going to come down to what team wants it the most and that’s who’s going to win.”