As the Texas Longhorns gear up for the 2025 season, one of the most pressing questions on the minds of fans and coaches alike is the status of kicker Bert Auburn. After a challenging 2024 campaign that saw Auburn struggle with consistency, the 2025 season represents a fresh start and a critical opportunity to regain his form. Can the junior kicker rebound and help Texas’ special teams perform at a high level once again?
2024 Struggles and The Road Ahead
Auburn entered the 2024 season with high expectations after a promising start to his collegiate career. However, the year proved to be a turbulent one for the young kicker. Auburn experienced a number of critical misses throughout the season, particularly in high-pressure moments. This included a few missed field goals in tight games that kept the Longhorns from fully capitalizing on their offensive opportunities.
Despite these struggles, Auburn’s leg strength and potential have never been in question. He has the capability to hit from long distances, as evidenced by his impressive kicks during his earlier seasons at Texas. His struggles, however, seemed to stem from inconsistency in mechanics and perhaps a lack of confidence in clutch situations.
A Change in Mentality and Approach for 2025
With 2024 behind him, Auburn has committed to refining his technique and mental approach heading into 2025. Working with special teams coordinator Jeff Banks and the Longhorns’ sports psychologists, Auburn has spent the offseason focusing on strengthening his mental resilience and sharpening his mechanics.
“Kickoffs, field goals, and extra points — they’re all about mental preparation,” Auburn recently said in an interview. “I’ve worked a lot on visualizing success and pushing out any negativity. It’s all about staying calm and trusting the process.”
With a renewed mindset and fresh determination, Auburn is looking to turn the page on last season’s struggles and show that he can once again be a reliable and clutch kicker for Texas.
Special Teams Depth and Support
Auburn’s success will also depend on the continued improvement of the Longhorns’ overall special teams unit. Texas boasts a strong punting game, with veteran punter Ryan Sanborn returning for the 2025 season, and a promising return game led by standout players capable of setting up Auburn for good field position. The synergy between these areas will be crucial in helping Auburn gain confidence and find his rhythm.
Moreover, the Longhorns’ coaching staff has been emphasizing the importance of special teams as a whole, understanding that a solid kicker can be the difference in tight games, especially in the high-stakes Big 12.
What’s at Stake for Auburn in 2025
For Bert Auburn, 2025 is a make-or-break season. If he can return to form, it could be the difference between a successful season for the Longhorns and one where special teams become a liability. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching Auburn’s performance in the early games, as he looks to rebuild his confidence and reclaim his spot as one of the top kickers in the Big 12.
The 2025 season also serves as a potential springboard for Auburn’s future in football, as a strong season could raise his draft stock and solidify his place as one of the top collegiate kickers in the nation.
Conclusion
While 2024 was undoubtedly a challenging year for Bert Auburn, the 2025 season provides a fresh opportunity to reassert himself and prove that he has the skill and mental fortitude to thrive in high-pressure situations. With a renewed focus on his technique and mental approach, Auburn’s bounce-back will be critical for Texas’ special teams to remain a strong and reliable asset in 2025.
As the Longhorns prepare for their upcoming season, all eyes will be on Auburn as he attempts to overcome his past struggles and help lead Texas to success in the kicking game. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with hard work and determination, Auburn has the chance to silence critics and once again make a major impact for Texas football.
