Overview
- D.J. Durkin confirmed Daniels will not face Mercer, keeping him under the four‑game redshirt limit and leaving him available for Alabama.
- Durkin said both Jackson Arnold and freshman Deuce Knight will play, with no starter named, and Tuesday practice observations showed Knight taking first‑team reps.
- Offensive coordinator Derrick Nix has assumed play‑calling duties as Durkin broadens his oversight and continues to direct the defense.
- Athletic director John Cohen has spoken with roughly 10 candidates, including Jon Sumrall, Clark Lea, Eli Drinkwitz, Eric Morris, Alex Golesh, Ryan Silverfield and Durkin, according to On3.
- James Franklin is not expected to be a factor in the search, and Cohen plans to decide soon after the Iron Bowl as Auburn prioritizes stability and roster retention.