Like many SEC football programs, Auburn named its next head coach on Sunday by tabbing Alex Golesh as the new leading man, taking over for Hugh Freeze, who was fired in early November.
Golesh has had plenty of success as a tight ends coach, offensive coordinator, and now a head coach. After five consecutive losing seasons, Auburn fans want to see their football program become a College Football Playoff contender and to compete alongside the SEC's best rosters. Golesh has a vision to bring the program to its former glory and will demand the hard work necessary to achieve the goal.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementDespite Golesh's positive track record, many Auburn fans are skeptical of the hire, as Golesh was seen as a "long shot" candidate for the job thanks to former Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall and interim head coach DJ Durkin being at the forefront of the search. For those curious about what Golesh can bring to Auburn, perhaps we can provide clarity.
We reached out to Christopher Mathis, producer of "The Drive with TKras" radio show on WDAE-FM in Tampa, Florida, for insight. Golesh was a weekly guest on the show during his tenure at USF and provided a deep look into his program during each segment.
Here are five takeaways from our conversation with Mathis about Golesh and why he will be a great fit on the Plains.
Alex Golesh has a knack for developing quarterbacks
Oct 10, 2025; Denton, Texas, USA; South Florida Bulls quarterback Byrum Brown (17) warms up prior to a game against the North Texas Mean Green at DATCU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn ImagesIn his time as an offensive coordinator and head coach, Golesh has worked with several solid quarterbacks, including Hendon Hooker, Joe Milton III, and Dylan Gabriel. The latest example of his quarterback development can be seen in USF quarterback Byrum Brown, who recently became the 12th player in college football history to pass for over 3,000 yards and rush for 1,000 yards in the same season.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMathis believes that Brown took a giant step forward in development in 2025 under Golesh.
"I feel as if Byrum Brown went from being an offensive weapon to a dual-threat QB that knew the ins and outs of this offense. 2023 was great for Brown, but this year was even better."
Alex Golesh produces exciting, fast-paced offenses
Oct 3, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; South Florida Bulls running back Cartevious Norton (5) is congradulated by South Florida Bulls head coach Alex Golesh after he ran the ball in for a touchdown against the Charlotte 49ers during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn ImagesThe USF offense currently ranks No. 2 in the nation in total offense by gaining 500.6 yards per game, and ranks fourth in the nation in points scored with 43.0. This year's results on offense are indicative of how Golesh's offense usually performs, as he has led four teams to top-25 finishes in offensive production over the last five seasons.
Mathis expects Golesh's style of play to translate well into the SEC and in recruiting.
"Alex Golesh had this offense performing at a high clip. The offense was very fast-paced, efficient, and exciting to watch. I can see how any college prospect would want to play in Golesh’s offense. I can only imagine what will happen with SEC-level talent."
Alex Golesh is a firm believer in "the process."
Sep 13, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; South Florida Bulls head coach Alex Golesh looks on against the Miami Hurricanes in the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn ImagesGolesh is very process-driven and demands that his players live by the code. In an interview with podcast host Adam Breneman, Golesh said his philosophy is based on a quote from legendary Ohio State head coach Jim Tressel, who said, "Be where your feet are, shut your mouth, and do your job." He does not believe in outside noise and that destiny is controlled from within.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement"Golesh brought a “process-driven” approach and mindset. He PREACHED consistency with the process and no distractions. Believe those in your inner circle, not those on the outside looking in. The goal was simply to compete and win on a week-by-week basis. Never publicly would address it more than that."
"The process" will determine wins or losses
Dec 24, 2024; South Florida Bulls head coach Alex Golesh reacts on stage after his team defeated the San Jose State Spartans in five overtimes at Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex. Mandatory Credit: Marco Garcia-Imagn ImagesAuburn was on the losing end of one-score games more often than not during the Hugh Freeze era, and those results were always chalked up to being "close." Those days are gone, as Golesh expects to win every game and will easily get to the root of every loss.
"With Wins, Golesh approached them as the standard. The expectation. With losses, he always brought it back to the process and where the process went wrong that week or in that particular game."
Fans can expect a quick turnaround under Alex Golesh
Oct 21, 2023; East Hartford, Connecticut, USA; South Florida Bulls head coach Alex Golesh before the start of the game against the UConn Huskies at Rentschler Field at Pratt & Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY SportsMathis says that Auburn fans can expect to see results quickly, especially with the caliber of roster Auburn has in its locker room.
"I love the innovative/fast-paced offense. I feel as if he got the most out of his roster, and I expect even more success with SEC-level talent. You’ll notice a difference immediately with Golesh’s infectious personality and drive to win."
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AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThis article originally appeared on Auburn Wire: What is Auburn football is getting with Alex Golesh
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