Alex Golesh Play Calling Breakdown | DJ Durkin Defensive Philosophy | Auburn Football Podcast
Alex Golesh Play Calling Breakdown | DJ Durkin Defensive Philosophy | Auburn Football Podcast  
Podcast: The Auburn Express
Published On: Tue Mar 31 2026
Description: Spring ball is heating up, and Auburn football is giving clear signals about what this team wants to be in 2026. The big question right now is simple: can this coaching staff finally bring the balance and identity Auburn fans have been waiting for? In this episode, the focus is on how Alex Golesh, Joel Gordon, and DJ Durkin are shaping both sides of the ball. There’s been a lot of conversation around play calling, and for good reason. Auburn fans have seen too many situations where offensive control felt disjointed. But this time, things feel different. Joel Gordon is the offensive coordinator, but Alex Golesh isn’t hands-off. Instead, this looks like a system built on trust, timing, and situational awareness. When Golesh steps in, it’s not to take over, it’s to elevate the moment. That’s a big distinction, and it could be the difference between a good offense and a dangerous one. On the defensive side, DJ Durkin returns with continuity and talent. Players like Xavier Atkins are expected to anchor a unit that may look very different philosophically. Instead of a bend-don’t-break approach, Auburn is signaling aggression. More blitzing. More risks. More chances to create turnovers. And that’s where it all connects. If the offense can score quickly and consistently, the defense has permission to attack. That means chaos, big plays, and momentum swings that Auburn hasn’t consistently created in recent years. This isn’t just about scheme. It’s about identity. And based on what’s being said this spring, Auburn might finally be building one that fits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices