Carnell "Cadillac" Williams is one of the most well-known figures in all of Auburn athletics.
From his historic career as a player to stepping up as Auburn's interim head coach last season and returning some energy to the program, Williams has always had a unique ability to inspire those around him.
When Hugh Freeze was hired as Auburn's head coach, he stressed the importance of keeping Williams on his staff. Williams was promoted to assistant head coach and maintained his role as running backs coach.
The Tigers are about to start a new season, and the running back position is generating a lot of excitement.
Junior Jarquez Hunter is looking to have a breakout season. Sophomore Damari Alston is looking to build on a productive season. Newcomers Brian Battie and Jeremiah Cobb finish off a running back room that is expected to be one of the deepest in all of college football.
"These guys have shown up each and every day and put in the work," Williams said. "I love the comradery in that room, I have a bunch of selfless, hardworking guys pouring into each other. From top-to-bottom, it's the deepest room we've had since I've been here."
Alston, who has gained a lot of attention as a breakout star this summer, has put a lot of people on notice, and Williams is no different.
"I'm so excited for that young man," Williams said on Alston. "What a great human being. Talk about a guy that's selfless. Talk about a guy that's always checking on his teammates. Always trying to pour into others."
Freshman Jeremiah Cobb is another player that has had a good camp so far. Williams is confident that he will be a difference-maker for the Tigers for years to come.
"He's early on there," Williams said. "You can tell that he's a freshman. I can definitely remember coming in being from this state and being a big name back and trying to find my way. He has been up and down, but over the past five days I've started to see consistency and communication."
Hunter is expected to take a step forward this season after playing behind Tank Bigsby for the past two seasons. Williams likes what he has seen from the group's leader.
"Jarquez was already a good pass catcher," Williams said. "His pass blocking has also gotten a lot better."
Williams and Auburn's running back room will not have to wait too much longer to show off their depth. The Tigers get the season underway at home in Jordan-Hare Stadium against the Mass Minutemen on September 2.
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