Progrums

Kodi Burns Dares Auburn’s New Receiver to ‘Be a Guy’

Auburn’s co-offensive coordinator Kodi Burns is banking on transfer Jeremiah Koger to fill the void left by departed star wideouts. After hauling in 38 catches for nearly 600 yards and eight touchdowns at USF last year, Koger arrives in the SEC with a two-year window to prove he’s more than just another target. Burns admires Koger’s 6’4” frame, speed, and ball skills, but insists the junior must “grow” and truly “be a guy” rather than blend into the group. With a receiver room lacking proven playmakers, Burns has zeroed in on Koger as the breakout threat who could restore Tiger swagger in 2026.

In a bold display of motivational speak, Burns apparently skipped “Be a team player” and went straight for “Be a guy,” because nothing screams peak coaching strategy like exhorting a grown man to, well, grow. One can only imagine Burns pacing the sideline, red pen in hand, circling words like “talented” and “big frame” on Koger’s player profile while muttering, “You’ve done it before, bro—why not do it again?” Rumor has it Burns is handing out participation trophies labeled “Guy of the Day” and crafting a motivational PowerPoint titled “Guy: Level Up.” If Koger doesn’t emerge as The Guy by midseason, expect Burns to dial it up to “Be a Legend,” or simply resort to chanting “Guy! Guy! Guy!” in pregame huddles.