On the Plains with Cole Skinner: ‘I love this place’

For offensive lineman Cole Skinner, coming to Auburn was about more than football. It was about finding a family where he could become part of something bigger than himself.

A native of Point Pleasant, New Jersey, Skinner traveled south to play for South Florida for three seasons, appearing in 28 games with eight starts. Being a versatile player, he started four games at right guard and four at left guard, and during the 2025 season, Skinner scored a pair of touchdowns while running a few plays at fullback.

Skinner’s journey to college football was not without its own challenges but he credits two people from back home with helping to keep him on the right path.

“My sophomore year of high school, I got an injury during COVID,” Skinner said. “I got really depressed and I was going to quit football. My best friend from back home, Matt O’Donnell, ended up calling me one day and asked me to go train with him. He brought me to this trainer, Val Barnaby. I went in and I told him that I wanted to quit. He didn't let me give up on my potential. He pushed me when I thought that I couldn't do it. I wouldn't be where I am without him.”

And it’s a good thing he didn’t quit. Skinner went on to have a very successful prep career at Point Pleasant Boro High School. He was named Second Team USA Today Network All-New Jersey and helped his team go 9-1 in 2022.

Skinner’s high school success led him to South Florida and after three seasons with the Bulls, he decided to make his home at Auburn for two reasons: the coaching staff and the Auburn Family.

“I chose Auburn first off because of the staff,” Skinner said. “I've known them for the past three years and I love being with the coaching staff. They keep it real all the time, which is something I was always looking for. I need someone to not blow smoke but to keep it real with me.

“The second reason is that on my visit I fell in love with the place instantly. The Auburn Family is a real thing. It's truly awesome the way that the Auburn Family follows and supports the athletics here.”

While his love for Auburn was instantaneous, his relationship with the coaching staff was years in the making.

“I got the follow one day from (Alex) Golesh and Hoodie (Tyler Hudanick) and I just started talking to them and instantly it just seemed like family to me,” Skinner said. “That is just the way that Golesh is. I know people see it online and people follow him. He's truly a family guy and Hoodie's the same way. I truly love the way that they work and the way that they coach me. So, why not take it to a bigger stage and stay with them, when they've stayed with me.”

Entering his senior year, Skinner is now looking to face a new challenge: competing in the best conference in college football.

“We’re playing against the best of the best every single week,” Skinner said. “You're going against first and second-round picks every single week. So, the margin of error is super slim. You have to be on your best every single snap. Every single play, because in this league, it's one play that can get you beat.”

Now, as an upperclassman on Auburn’s roster, Skinner hopes to use what he has learned throughout his career to help lead the Tigers.

“It comes down to technique and fundamentals,” Skinner said. “At this level, you're playing against the best of the best and this is this is your moment to shine. Games are going to be a physical, violent dogfight every single week. That's just what it is in the SEC. It just means more. We need to be the most prepared team out there, that is what it takes. Having more experience playing college football, I can see how the game slows down from certain looks or reading body postures. It definitely slows down.”

While trying to take this season one step at a time, Skinner is most looking forward to the opportunity to compete in one of the greatest rivalries in sports.

“I know Coach Golesh tells us all the time to take it one step at a time and to be where your feet are, but I'm looking forward to the Iron Bowl,” said Skinner. “Growing up, I was never a fan of them. I just never, never liked that other school. I can’t wait for that game. I cannot wait.”

With his first season on the Plains approaching, Skinner is excited to experience Jordan-Hare with the Tiger faithful.

“I’m excited for the Auburn Family,” Skinner said. “They support us no matter what. We need to be able to do our end of it and bring this place back to where it needs to be. I've heard so many crazy, crazy experiences from our stadium. It's one of the loudest stadiums in college football and I can't wait to be a part of that.”

As Skinner prepares to begin his Auburn career, he is also focused on the legacy he hopes to leave on the Plains.

“I want to be remembered as a violent person on the field that gave it all he had,” Skinner said. “Off the field, I want to be someone that people can come to if they ever need anything. I want to be known as a person in the community. I want to be a part of the Auburn Family. They always support us. I want to support them. They're here because they love this place. I am here because I love this place.”

While looking to his future, Skinner is focusing on making the most of this season with the Tigers while trying to help lift Auburn back to where he believes it belongs.

“I want to ball out this year, play the best ball that I've played, go to the NFL,” said Skinner. “If that doesn't work out, then come back here, grind another year and be in this awesome place. Every day, just trying to get one step closer to the end goal, and bring this place back to national contention.”

Skinner knows there is still much to come as he begins the next chapter of his career on the Plains.

“I think my story is still being told,” he said. “I believe it is still being written.”