The Auburn Tigers might have a 2-4 record, but that doesn’t mean there haven’t been some standout individual performances. Here’s a look at the three most surprising ones.
The 2024 season has reached its halfway point for the Auburn Tigers, and it has undoubtedly been disappointing thus far.
Auburn currently holds a 2-4 record and remains winless in conference play. Turnovers have plagued the team throughout the first half, leading to unexpected losses.
Despite the team’s struggles, there have been a few standout performances. Who are the three biggest surprises for Auburn so far this season?
KeAndre Lambert-Smith, WR
Lambert-Smith was one of Auburn’s most exciting transfer additions this offseason. The Norfolk, Va. native spent four seasons at Penn State, where he led the Nittany Lions in receiving last year with 53 catches for 673 yards and four touchdowns.
Halfway through this season, Lambert-Smith is on track to surpass those numbers. He has already tallied 24 catches for 510 yards and six touchdowns, leading the Tigers in all three categories. He’s also on pace to become Auburn’s first 1,000-yard receiver since Ronney Daniels in 1999.
Head coach Hugh Freeze brought Lambert-Smith in to lead Auburn’s young receiver group, and he’s excelled both on and off the field.
Keldric Faulk, DL
Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 288 pounds, Faulk, a sophomore from Highland Home, Ala., impressed as a true freshman last year behind veterans like Marcus Harris. This season, as a starter, he’s taken his game to the next level.
Faulk ranks third on the team with 27 tackles, second in tackles for loss with seven, leads the team in sacks with five, and has contributed four quarterback hurries.
While Auburn’s front seven has had some issues in pass defense, Faulk has been a bright spot and will continue to be crucial for the Tigers’ defense going forward.
Malcolm Simmons, WR
Auburn retooled its receiving corps this season with a blend of talented freshmen and transfers. Simmons, a four-star recruit from Montgomery, Ala., was one of the key members of the 2024 class.
Simmons has quickly made his mark, securing the No. 2 receiver spot behind Lambert-Smith. He is second on the team with 18 receptions, 260 receiving yards, and two touchdowns.
With Lambert-Smith set to graduate, Simmons has positioned himself to be Auburn’s top receiver next season.
The Tigers are set to return to action on Saturday, Oct. 19, when they face No. 21 Missouri on the road at Memorial Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 11:00-11:45 a.m. CT, with the game airing on ESPN or SEC Network.
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