This week, Edge Sports Network had the chance to talk with Caleb Auer, a senior defensive tackle at Furman University.
Auer is the third former Buford athlete we have covered here on the site, with Brandon Marsh and Matthew Parker having been already featured. The dominance of their program is unmatched, and very few other high schools have sent as much talent to the collegiate level.
Furman University is probably one of those schools you have heard of before, but know little about. It’s one of those smaller schools that makes the NCAA Tournament in March, you see them on your bracket, and know absolutely nothing but their name.
Well, Furman should be way more than just a name, as they have built quite a strong football program in the recent years. Coming off a Southern Conference Championship, they are one of the best in their conference once again this year.
We wanted to first ask Auer about where it all began for him at the powerhouse high school of Buford.
Q: Tell us about your favorite memory you have playing football for Buford.
A: “I would have to say that my favorite memory from high school is getting to play for my dad. At the time, he was my offensive coordinator and it was pretty cool to be on the field with him every day. It’s awesome to see all my guys playing at the next level. Seems like yesterday I was blocking for Christian Turner and now he is scoring touchdowns in the Big House. It’s also cool to get a chance to play against some of my former teammates like Shug Frazier, and Josh Cardiello.”
After being a member of the offensive line the past two seasons, Auer made the transition to the defensive line for his senior season.
Q: You have played many different positions since your time at Buford. How has the experience been transitioning to your new role on defense?
A: “The transition has gone really well. My role on the team at Furman has sort of turned into being a utility player. I attribute that to my coaches, both in high school and college. They have just taught me the game of football on a schematic level, so it is easy to pick up on new positions.”
So easy to pick up, he notched his first career collegiate sack a couple weeks ago.
Q: For the people who don’t know about Furman football out there, what should they know?
A: “We have a really good team this year. We are trying to defend a Southern Conference title this year as well. Last year we had a three-way tie for the conference, but this year we are on a mission to win an outright SoCon championship. People should know that I am a huge Game of Thrones fan (even with the ending). I also enjoy playing golf, no matter how bad I am at it.“
Q: You guys lost a close one to Virgina Tech in one of the hardest stadiums to play in this year. How were the nerves for that game being in that stadium?
A: “Honestly, the nerves were not all that bad. We were confident going into that game because our coaches had an awesome game plan, and we had the talent to stand up and fight. We play a big game against a FBS team every year, so we are used to the big stage.“
Edge Sports Network would like to thank Caleb for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish him, and the entire Furman football program the best of luck for the remainder of the season.
Cover photo via: Furman Athletics
Follow Caleb Auer on Twitter: @CalebAuer35
Follow Edge Sports Network on Twitter:@TheEdgeSN
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