After two scrimmages and 11 spring practices, head coach Gus Malzahn has given little indication that there’s a front runner in the running back battle.
Junior college transfer Jovon Robinson may be the newest face among the trio of backs, but he said that hasn’t prevented him from putting together a strong spring.
“My spring right now is probably the best spring I’ve ever had in my life,” Robinson said. “The material I’ve been introduced to, I’ve been so focused on it. This is like no focus I’ve ever had.”
Robinson scored a touchdown during Saturday’s scrimmage in Jordan-Hare Stadium and said he didn’t miss any assignments in a clean performance.
Robinson said he’s still picking up the offense and is putting in extra hours of study with the playbook and on film to try to separate himself in the competition.
“Obviously with my position in Malzahn’s offense, success is imminent,” Robinson said. “But I feel like if you don’t put forth the work, you won’t see results.”
Between Robinson, sophomore Roc Thomas and junior Peyton Barber, other position groups have noticed the heated competition in the backfield.
“They’re always competing,” Truitt said. “They always go really hard. They’re all really good. It’s a tough competition for them.”
Robinson said that Auburn will be the winner in this competition no matter who emerges as the replacement for the SEC’s leading rusher Cameron Artis-Payne.
“I feel like everybody has their time and an opportunity,” Robinson said. “I want what’s best for me, but this is Auburn’s shot.”
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