The 2016 college football season featured compelling narratives around player awards and team performances, particularly involving Auburn University. This article provides a detailed overview of Heisman Trophy candidates and postgame insights from Auburn's matchups during that year, based exclusively on the provided source material.
Heisman Trophy Contenders in 2016
The Heisman Trophy race in 2016 included several standout players whose performances positioned them as strong contenders. One notable candidate was a quarterback who demonstrated exceptional dual-threat capabilities. This player completed 179 of 258 passes for 2,040 yards, 15 touchdowns, and only 2 interceptions. Additionally, he rushed 77 times for 321 yards and 7 touchdowns. Over his past three games, he accounted for 10 total touchdowns while throwing just one interception in wins over Ole Miss, Florida, and Mississippi State. His team's offense averaged over six yards per play in four games this season, with two of those occurring in that three-game stretch. A prime opportunity to improve his Heisman odds arose in a game against Texas, with potential matchups against Georgia Tech in the regular-season finale and a possible SEC title game appearance.
Historical context highlighted that it was not unprecedented for a quarterback and a wide receiver from the same team to both be Heisman finalists. In 2020, when Alabama's DeVonta Smith won the Heisman, quarterback Mac Jones finished third in the voting. Similarly, in 2016, Baker Mayfield and Dede Westbrook were both Heisman finalists.
Another quarterback candidate was noted for his recent form, having played extremely well over three games since Georgia's win over Auburn. He accounted for 10 total touchdowns in wins over Ole Miss, Florida, and Mississippi State, with his team's offense averaging over six yards per play in multiple games during that stretch.
Auburn's 2016 Season and Postgame Analysis
Auburn's 2016 season included a game against Vanderbilt on November 5, 2016, at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Postgame quotes provided insights into team strategies and player performances.
Vanderbilt's Perspective on the Auburn Game
Vanderbilt Head Coach Derek Mason offered a detailed postgame analysis following the November 5, 2016, matchup against Auburn. He credited Auburn as a tough and physical team but emphasized that Vanderbilt's players were well-prepared. Coming off a bye week, the team had a clear offensive game plan: to get the ball out of the quarterback's hands quickly while maintaining balance with the running game. Mason praised the offensive line, specifically challenging them to neutralize Auburn's pass rush, which they accomplished for the majority of the game. The offense featured 12 different receivers catching passes, showcasing versatility. Quarterback Kyle Shurmur was described as poised, spreading the ball around effectively. The running backs ran hard, and the wildcat formation was utilized effectively.
Defensively, Vanderbilt executed their plan in the first half. Mason noted that the team adapted to Auburn's quarterback change, as John Franklin III's presence indicated a more wildcat-oriented offense, requiring all 11 defenders to stay alert.
Auburn's Quarterback Dynamics
In the Vanderbilt game, Auburn's offense shifted based on quarterback personnel. Vanderbilt safety Ryan White observed that when Auburn used number 5 (John Franklin III), he was a runner, while number 13 (Sean White) was a thrower, which made a significant difference in the game's flow. This change required Vanderbilt to adjust its defensive approach.
Offensive Line Performance
Vanderbilt's offensive line faced a formidable challenge against Auburn's front seven, including players like number 55 (Carl Lawson) and number 1 (Montravius Adams). Despite the talent of Auburn's defensive line, Vanderbilt's line stood up to them and did not yield. Coach Mason and players acknowledged the strength of Auburn's pass rush but highlighted the line's resilience.
Offensive Strategies and Adjustments
The use of end-arounds in the offense added a layer of complexity, preventing first- and second-level defenders from committing too aggressively to run plays. This tactic forced defenders to maintain gap integrity, making them hesitant to attack downhill quickly against plays like Ralph Webb's runs. Vanderbilt's overall offensive approach focused on ball distribution and balance, resulting in 12 different receivers contributing to the passing game.
Defensive Adjustments and Key Plays
Vanderbilt's defense successfully held down Auburn's potent offense for portions of the game. A notable play was a field goal block, which was not a practiced scenario but rather a spontaneous effort by a player described as a "jumper." The defense's ability to adapt to Auburn's quarterback switch was crucial, as they adjusted from facing a runner to a passer.
Player Reflections
Vanderbilt quarterback Kyle Shurmur reflected on the game, acknowledging that despite a solid offensive plan and line performance, he did not play well enough to secure a win. He expressed regret over a late interception that cost the team a chance to win, emphasizing that wins and losses were the primary measure of success.
Auburn University's Broader Context
Beyond the football field, Auburn University in 2016 was involved in legislative advocacy and academic discussions. A presentation at the university highlighted the importance of community advocacy, encouraging faculty and staff to support the university's interests at the state level. Membership in advocacy groups was promoted with fees of $12, $60, or $120 annually, offering benefits and forms for enrollment. The goal was to build a strong network of advocates to represent Auburn's interests in the state legislature.
Additionally, an ad hoc committee on clustering in athletics was formed on May 8, 2015, by the Provost, indicating ongoing academic oversight and discussions related to student-athlete academic performance.
Coastal Carolina Baseball Achievements
While not directly related to Auburn, the provided sources also included information on Coastal Carolina baseball under Coach Gary Gilmore. In 2021, despite a young team and challenges from COVID-19, the Chanticleers achieved a 27-24 overall record and 9-12 in Sun Belt Conference play. Coach Gilmore recorded his 1,000th-career win at CCU with a 12-2 victory over Texas State. The team led the Sun Belt in home runs (63) and on-base percentage (.367), with strong offensive stats including 318 runs scored and 292 RBIs. On the mound, they posted a 4.87 ERA with 428 strikeouts over 449 innings.
Players like Parker Chavers, Alex Gattinelli, BT Riopelle, and Nick Lucky were key contributors, with seven underclassmen making 20 or more starts. The team's performance highlighted resilience and development amid adversity.
Conclusion
The 2016 college football season provided rich narratives around Heisman contenders and Auburn's competitive strategies. Auburn's game against Vanderbilt revealed detailed postgame analyses, including offensive adjustments, quarterback dynamics, and defensive adaptations. Beyond football, Auburn University fostered advocacy and academic committees, while Coastal Carolina baseball demonstrated impressive achievements under Coach Gary Gilmore. These elements collectively illustrate the multifaceted nature of collegiate sports and institutional activities during that period.