Former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jake Coker—a one-time national champion and fan favorite in Tuscaloosa has joined the coaching staff of arch-rival Auburn University. The announcement came just weeks after Coker lost out on a key offensive coordinator role within Alabama’s program, marking a dramatic career pivot that has reignited one of college football’s fiercest rivalries.
Coker, who famously led Alabama to a College Football Playoff National Championship in 2015 under Nick Saban, announced his new position Saturday afternoon via a statement on social media. In a message that instantly went viral, Coker called Auburn “my new home” and vowed to help “slay the dragon” in reference to his former team.
“I’ll always have respect for Alabama and what we accomplished together,” Coker wrote. “But life changes, and opportunities come where you least expect them. Auburn gave me one, and I’m here to give them everything I’ve got. The Plains feel like home now—and we’re coming to slay the dragon.”
A Shocking Turn in a Storied Rivalry
Coker’s hiring by Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze came after the Tigers parted ways with their previous quarterbacks coach, Kent Austin, following a disappointing offensive showing in their first half of the 2025 season. According to program insiders, Freeze sought a “young, battle-tested voice” who could connect with players and bring a championship mindset into the quarterback room.
“Jake understands what it takes to win at the highest level,” Freeze said in a press release. “He’s been in the huddle, he’s led on the field, and he’s competed in the Iron Bowl under pressure. His energy and experience are exactly what Auburn football needs right now.”
The move is especially bold considering Coker’s deep ties to Alabama. A Mobile native and former Florida State transfer, Coker became one of Saban’s most trusted leaders during his senior year, guiding the Tide to victories over LSU, Georgia, and Clemson in the championship game. His toughness and calm demeanor made him a symbol of Alabama’s “Process” culture.
But after a short professional stint and several years working in broadcasting and player development, Coker began eyeing a coaching career. Multiple sources within the Crimson Tide program reported that Coker had interviewed for an assistant role under offensive coordinator Tommy Rees earlier this year—but was ultimately passed over in favor of a younger coach.
The Emotional Fallout
The news of Coker’s move to Auburn sparked a range of emotions among Alabama fans—some supportive, others outright furious. Social media lit up with mixed reactions.
“Can’t believe Jake would cross enemy lines like that,” one Alabama fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Guess loyalty doesn’t mean what it used to.”
Others defended his decision. “He’s chasing his dream,” another fan posted. “If Auburn gave him the chance to coach, more power to him. Once a competitor, always a competitor.”
For Auburn supporters, the hire is being celebrated as both a strategic and symbolic victory. “This is more than a coaching move,” said former Auburn receiver Kodi Burns, now an analyst for the SEC Network. “It’s a statement that the rivalry lines are shifting. Freeze is bringing in people who know how Alabama thinks—and how to beat them.”
Coker’s vow to “slay the dragon” has already injected new life into the upcoming Iron Bowl, scheduled for November 29 at Jordan-Hare Stadium. With Alabama still in playoff contention and Auburn rebuilding under Freeze, the clash promises to carry extra heat this year.
When asked about Coker’s comments, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer kept his response brief but pointed. “We wish Jake well,” DeBoer said during Monday’s press conference. “But make no mistake—our focus is on Alabama football and what we do, not what others say.”
Coker, meanwhile, has already been spotted on the practice field working closely with Auburn’s young quarterbacks, including standout sophomore Holden Geriner. Early reports suggest his leadership is resonating in the locker room.
As for Coker himself, the move seems to have reignited his competitive fire. “Football’s in my blood,” he told Auburn’s in-house media team. “This rivalry made me who I am—and now, I get to see it from the other side. I’m ready for it.”
Come November, all eyes will be on the Plains to see whether the Tide’s former hero can help Auburn do the unthinkable: slay the dragon he once helped feed.
Be the first to comment