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Alex Golesh on D.J. Durkin: 'I've really enjoyed working with him'
TL;DR
Auburn head coach Alex Golesh praised defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin, highlighting his effectiveness and the players' strong support for him. Golesh noted that the returning defensive players give the team an advantage for the upcoming season.
One of the best moves made by Alex Golesh when he was named Auburn head coach was the retention of defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin. It was evident when Durkin became the interim head coach after the dismissal of Hugh Freeze that the players loved playing for him. The Auburn defense was a big reason why they were in every game last season, and they did not lose any game by more than ten points. The Tigers ranked third in the SEC last season against the run at 99.3 yards per game, and did a good job holding opponents out of the endzone.
On Friday, Golesh was a guest on 3 Man Front on WJOX in Birmingham, and he talked about working with Durkin. “Here's a guy that obviously is one of the top defensive coordinators in the country, and I would tell you, going up against it here for the last ten days in practice, I would tell you, the best in the country at what they do, how they do it," said Golesh.
In the interview, Golesh talked about how there are more returning players on the defensive side than on offense. Including talking about how some players are in the second or even third season in the system. That should give the Tigers a huge edge next season. Having returning players like linebacker Xavier Atkins, defensive lineman Chris Murray, and safety Eric Winters, among others, the Tigers have consistency on defense. Golesh has enjoyed having Durkin on the coaching staff as well.
“I've really enjoyed working with him, what he's been able to continue to do for us defensively and as a staff, like I said, just a pros pro and an incredible assistant coach in the sense that he'll speak up when he needs to, but he works incredibly hard to make sure his side of the ball is elite," added Golesh.
It should excite Auburn fans what the defense will be able to do in year three under Durkin this fall. They will be able to get a first look at the team assembled by Golesh on April 18th during the annual A-Day Game.
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This article originally appeared on Auburn Wire: Auburn football coach Alex Golesh enjoys working with DJ Durkin
Q&A
What did Alex Golesh say about D.J. Durkin's coaching style?
Alex Golesh described D.J. Durkin as a top defensive coordinator who works hard to ensure the defense remains elite and effectively communicates with the coaching staff.
How did Auburn's defense perform last season under D.J. Durkin?
Auburn's defense ranked third in the SEC against the run, allowing only 99.3 yards per game, and kept games close, with no losses by more than ten points.
Who are some key returning players on Auburn's defense for the next season?
Key returning players on Auburn's defense include linebacker Xavier Atkins, defensive lineman Chris Murray, and safety Eric Winters.
