Returning as Auburn’s special teams coach, Lunsford will improve the team’s success in 2025 by contributing his leadership and experience.

As the 2025 college football season approaches, one of the most notable coaching changes at Auburn University is the return of special teams coordinator, Lunsford. A vital part of Auburn’s football team, the special teams unit is often a difference-maker in tight games, and with Lunsford’s return, the Tigers are poised to elevate this phase of their game to new heights. His leadership, combined with years of experience, brings a sense of continuity and expertise that is critical as Auburn looks to improve on its recent performances and solidify its standing in the highly competitive SEC.

Lunsford’s return to the coaching staff marks a significant move for Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze, who has been working hard to build a solid foundation for the Tigers. With an eye on the future, Auburn has made it clear that special teams play is a priority for the program. Lunsford’s track record speaks for itself, and his focus on turning the special teams into an asset rather than just a supporting cast is a welcomed change that Auburn fans are eager to see unfold.

This article will explore Lunsford’s background, why his return is so important for Auburn, and what fans can expect from his leadership as the special teams coach in 2025.

Lunsford’s Background and Coaching Experience

Lunsford is no stranger to Auburn football, having previously served in various coaching roles, including his tenure as the special teams coordinator. His coaching journey spans over several years, during which he’s had the chance to work at different levels of football, from high school to college. His wealth of experience has given him a deep understanding of how to maximize the potential of his players, especially in the often-overlooked area of special teams.

Before returning to Auburn, Lunsford had notable stints at other institutions, where he honed his craft and became known for his ability to make special teams a key part of the overall team strategy. Special teams, often viewed as a phase of the game that involves minimal strategy or can be left to less experienced players, require a coach who can elevate its importance. Lunsford’s success in this area stems from his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to get the most out of his players, regardless of their position.

During his previous time at Auburn, Lunsford’s special teams units were consistently among the best in the SEC. He was known for developing dynamic kickers and punters, as well as orchestrating coverage and return units that could flip momentum in games. His experience with handling various aspects of special teams, from field goal kicking to kickoff coverage, will undoubtedly be a huge asset to Auburn as it looks to improve in all areas of play.

Why Lunsford’s Return is Vital for Auburn in 2025

1. Experience and Leadership: One of the primary reasons Lunsford’s return is so crucial to Auburn’s success in 2025 is his experience and leadership. Special teams are often the most overlooked aspect of football, but they can be the difference in a game. The Tigers have often struggled with consistency in this area, but with Lunsford back in charge, fans can expect a more organized and effective approach. Lunsford’s leadership will ensure that the players understand the importance of special teams and how to excel in these moments.
2. Improved Special Teams Play: One of the key reasons Lunsford is returning is to bring improvement to Auburn’s special teams units. Auburn’s special teams have been inconsistent in recent years, with issues in coverage, return game, and kicking situations. Under Lunsford’s watch, these problems are expected to be addressed head-on. Special teams will no longer be a passive phase of the game but will be elevated to a point where they directly contribute to the team’s success, both on offense and defense.
3. Focus on Fundamentals: Lunsford is known for his emphasis on the fundamentals, which are crucial when it comes to special teams. Kicking, punting, and covering kicks can seem simple, but they require precise timing, technique, and discipline. Lunsford’s ability to teach these fundamentals and drill his players in these critical areas will help Auburn’s special teams avoid costly mistakes, such as penalties, missed field goals, or poor returns.
4. The Value of Momentum Shifts: Special teams often serve as a catalyst for momentum shifts in football games. A key blocked punt, a long kickoff return, or a game-winning field goal can change the course of a game in an instant. Lunsford’s strategy will likely involve maximizing the Tigers’ ability to create these momentum-changing moments. His experience in creating opportunities for special teams players to shine will allow Auburn to have a greater chance of winning those tight, high-pressure games that are so common in the SEC.
5. Developing Future Special Teams Stars: Lunsford’s return will not only benefit the current team but will also help develop Auburn’s future special teams stars. Lunsford has a knack for identifying talent in young players and turning them into reliable contributors. Whether it’s a freshman kicker with big potential or an under-the-radar athlete with exceptional speed who could excel in the return game, Lunsford has the ability to mold these players into key assets for the team.

What to Expect from Auburn’s Special Teams in 2025

Auburn fans can expect to see several changes and improvements in the team’s special teams unit under Lunsford’s guidance. The coach’s return signals a renewed commitment to ensuring that special teams are a strong point for the Tigers in 2025. Here are some specific areas where Lunsford will focus his attention:

Kicking Game

The kicking game is often the most high-profile aspect of special teams, and Auburn has faced its share of challenges in this area in recent years. Whether it’s field goal attempts, extra points, or kickoffs, consistency in the kicking game can make or break a season. Lunsford will work with Auburn’s kickers and punters to ensure they perform under pressure, particularly in clutch situations. His expertise in this area will give Auburn a reliable and effective kicking game that can change the outcome of close contests.

Return Game

The return game is another area where Lunsford’s impact will be felt. Whether it’s on punt returns or kickoff returns, Auburn will look to generate more explosive plays in this phase of the game. Lunsford’s coaching will likely focus on improving the blocking schemes and making sure that returners are put in the best position to succeed. With explosive athletes capable of making plays in space, Auburn’s return game could become one of the most dangerous in the SEC under Lunsford’s direction.

Coverage Units

Coverage units are just as important as the return game. If the Tigers are to have success on special teams, they need to be able to cover kicks and punts effectively. Poor coverage can result in long returns and favorable field position for the opposition, often swinging the momentum of a game. Lunsford will focus on getting his coverage units to be disciplined, aggressive, and precise in their assignments, ensuring they minimize any big plays by the opposition.

Field Position and Strategy

In addition to improving individual components of special teams, Lunsford’s overall strategy will focus on maximizing field position. Special teams play is often about controlling the hidden yardage battle—starting with good field position or flipping the field with effective punts. Lunsford will place a significant emphasis on executing plays that create favorable field position, which can be crucial in tight games against SEC competition.

The Road Ahead for Auburn Football in 2025

As Auburn prepares for the 2025 season, Lunsford’s return as special teams coach represents a significant step forward for the team. His experience and leadership will provide the Tigers with a newfound emphasis on special teams, a phase of the game that can often be the difference in close contests. Lunsford’s ability to develop players, focus on fundamentals, and instill a sense of discipline will help make Auburn’s special teams one of the strongest in the SEC.

In an SEC environment where every game is fiercely contested, having a solid special teams unit could be the key to Auburn’s success in 2025. Whether it’s making critical field goals, blocking punts, or creating explosive returns, Auburn’s special teams will be a vital part of the team’s overall strategy, and Lunsford’s return will be a catalyst for that success.