South Alabama Jaguars’ 2025 Football Season: Key Insights and Expectations Ahead of Auburn Matchup
As the 2025 college football season approaches, the South Alabama Jaguars are gearing up for a pivotal matchup against the Auburn Tigers. This game marks the first-ever meeting between the two programs, making it a significant event in the college football landscape. For South Alabama, this season is particularly crucial as they look to build on their recent successes and establish themselves as a formidable force in the Sun Belt Conference.
The Jaguars are under the guidance of head coach Major Applewhite, who took over the program in 2024. Applewhite, a former quarterback at Texas, brings a wealth of experience to the team. His coaching career includes stints at Houston, Alabama, and Texas, where he has developed a reputation for offensive innovation and leadership. In his first season at South Alabama, Applewhite led the team to a 7–6 record and a victory in the Salute to Veterans Bowl, showcasing his ability to quickly turn a program around .
Offensively, the Jaguars will rely on the leadership of quarterback Zach Pyron. After transferring from Georgia Tech, Pyron is expected to be a central figure in South Alabama’s offense. His experience and skill set will be crucial as the team looks to maintain its high-scoring capabilities. Wide receiver Jamaal Pritchett, a first-team All-Sun Belt selection, will be Pyron’s primary target. Pritchett led the conference with 1,126 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, making him one of the most dynamic playmakers in the country .
In the backfield, Kentrel Bullock is expected to step up as the lead running back. Bullock has demonstrated his potential with multiple 100-yard games, and his performance will be vital in balancing the Jaguars’ offensive attack. However, the team will need to address the loss of leading rusher Fluff Bothwell, who entered the transfer portal .
Defensively, South Alabama boasts a solid unit led by safety Jaden Voisin. Voisin earned first-team All-Sun Belt honors after recording 74 tackles, five interceptions, and five pass breakups. His presence in the secondary will be crucial in containing Auburn’s passing game. Defensive lineman Wy’Kevious Thomas also returns, providing stability and experience to the defensive front .
However, the Jaguars’ defense faces challenges, particularly in pass coverage. They allowed over 253 passing yards per game in 2024, ranking 117th nationally. Improving in this area will be essential to compete against high-powered offenses like Auburn’s.
Special teams play a pivotal role in close games, and South Alabama’s unit will need to step up. The team faces a significant challenge with the departure of placekicker Laith Marjan, who was highly accurate in the previous season. His absence leaves a void that will need to be filled to maintain the team’s effectiveness in scoring opportunities .
Additionally, discipline will be a key focus. South Alabama committed 99 penalties in the 2024 season, ranking among the highest in the nation. Reducing penalties will be critical to avoid giving opponents advantageous field positions and to maintain momentum throughout games .
Auburn enters the 2025 season with a renewed sense of optimism under head coach Hugh Freeze. The Tigers have undergone significant changes, including the addition of new coordinators and a focus on rebuilding their roster. Quarterback Payton Thorne returns, bringing experience to the offense. Running back Jarquez Hunter is also back, providing stability in the backfield. However, Auburn faces challenges, particularly in the offensive line and secondary, areas that South Alabama’s defense will look to exploit .
The game between South Alabama and Auburn is set to take place at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Alabama. This venue provides a formidable home-field advantage for the Tigers, known for its passionate fan base and intimidating atmosphere. For South Alabama, playing in such an environment will be a test of composure and execution.
In terms of style, South Alabama’s offense is expected to be dynamic and fast-paced, utilizing a spread system that emphasizes quick passes and tempo. Auburn’s defense will need to adjust to this style, focusing on containment and pressure on the quarterback. Conversely, Auburn’s offense will aim to establish the run game early, utilizing Hunter’s abilities to control the clock and set up play-action opportunities.
The 2025 matchup between South Alabama and Auburn is more than just a game; it’s an opportunity for the Jaguars to showcase their growth and compete against a Power Five opponent. With a solid coaching staff, talented players, and a focused approach, South Alabama aims to make a statement and continue its ascent in college football. While Auburn presents a formidable challenge, the Jaguars are poised to rise to the occasion and potentially secure a memorable victory.
