“We talk about getting what you deserve. If you have a bunch of good players that can play we will find roles for them,” Auburn Co-Defensive Coordinator and Safeties Coach Tim Banks said after the team held their first practice of week two of preseason camp.
One of the guys hoping to find a role is USF transfer Fred Gaskin. Gaskin was one of the players Auburn Undercover identified as one to watch after week one of camp.
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Banks spoke about the progression the junior transfer has made since the spring.
“He’s a great competitor,” Banks said. “He’s good with the ball in his hands. I knew it wasn’t going to take him long. So far he is coming along.”
During his two years at USF, Gaskin started 12 games and charted 65 tackles with three interceptions. Auburn Undercover asked Gaskin what it’s been like stepping into a new secondary room with a new group of veteran guys.
“Our big thing is how close we are so we can play better and play more connected on the field,” Gaskin said. “Being on the same page. That’s just a big thing in our room right now.”
Gaskin said he likes the defensive schemes being drawn up by Coach Banks and Defensive Coordinator DJ Durkin, adding that it allows him and his teammates to play freer on the field.
“Play free and play fast,” Gaskin said. “That’s my game. Being able to take chances. Playing fast.”
Gaskin is competing for a playing time against proven players like Champ Anthony, Kaleb Harris and AnQuon Fegans. Auburn Undercover asked about the work he put in during the offseason to ensure he gets time on the field this fall.
“Here, I come to make plays,” Gaskin said. “Create turnovers, create explosive in any and every way on defense. That was my big thing.”
Auburn Undercover is an independent Auburn sports media company covering Auburn athletics, recruiting and insider news.
