KeAndre Lambert-Smith on the Plains: “A different sense of confidence….
KeAndre Lambert-Smith, a standout receiver for Auburn University, has brought a new energy and heightened level of confidence to the Plains. Having transferred from Penn State, Lambert-Smith is looking to make an immediate impact on the Auburn Tigers’ offense, and his attitude reflects a growing sense of self-assurance as he adapts to his new team and system.
As one of the top recruits when he first entered college football, Lambert-Smith quickly made a name for himself at Penn State. He showcased his talents as a versatile, explosive receiver, with the ability to make plays both in the open field and in tight situations. However, despite his impressive ability, there was always a sense that he hadn’t fully reached his potential in terms of both production and confidence.
In his time at Auburn, though, Lambert-Smith has stated that there’s a different sense of confidence now, one that he feels is the result of personal growth, new challenges, and the positive culture surrounding the Tigers’ program. “Coming into Auburn, I knew there was an opportunity to not only grow as a player but also to step up and take on a bigger leadership role,” he says. “I feel like I’m more comfortable now, both in the playbook and with the team. That gives me a different kind of confidence.”
This newfound confidence is something that is reflected in his play. Lambert-Smith has consistently been one of the most reliable and explosive players on the field, showing an ability to stretch the field with his speed, make contested catches, and quickly build a connection with his quarterback. His experience from his time at Penn State, paired with the fresh start Auburn offers, seems to be a combination that has unlocked his potential.
One of the key differences Lambert-Smith has noted between his time at Penn State and Auburn is the approach to competition. At Penn State, while the competition for playing time was fierce, Lambert-Smith felt that the atmosphere sometimes lacked the same kind of intensity and camaraderie that he’s now experiencing at Auburn. He’s described the Auburn environment as one that pushes him to be his best on a daily basis and fosters an overall sense of unity, something that fuels his confidence.
“The competition here is different,” Lambert-Smith explained. “It’s not just about competing against the defense but about competing with your teammates. It’s about lifting each other up, pushing each other to be better every day. And that makes all the difference.”
This collective focus on team success is also important in Lambert-Smith’s growing confidence. It’s not just about individual performance; it’s about the shared mission of the Auburn Tigers. This has led to stronger relationships among players, particularly within the wide receiver room, where Lambert-Smith has become a central figure.
Lambert-Smith’s development has also been aided by the coaching staff at Auburn, led by Head Coach Hugh Freeze. Freeze and his offensive staff have made it a priority to work with Lambert-Smith’s natural strengths, while also challenging him to become even more versatile in his role. The offensive system, which leans on both the run and pass game, plays to Lambert-Smith’s skill set and allows him to use his speed to create mismatches with defenders. The result has been a more refined player who is able to both execute the offense and elevate it when needed.
“I think the coaching staff here has helped me a lot,” Lambert-Smith said. “They’ve worked with me on fine-tuning my route running, getting better with my hands, and just being smarter with my approach to the game. There’s so much room for growth, but I feel like I’m on the right track.”
What’s been impressive in the early part of Lambert-Smith’s time at Auburn is not just his individual confidence, but the way in which he has inspired confidence in his teammates. His work ethic and commitment to improvement are contagious, and it’s clear that other players look up to him, especially in the wide receiver room. That leadership has been crucial in building the culture Auburn wants to foster, one in which every player believes they can contribute to the team’s success.
Of course, no player can thrive without the support of those around him, and Lambert-Smith has recognized the importance of his quarterback play and the offensive line’s ability to protect the pocket. With the stability and improvement on the offensive line, he knows the passing game has more potential to evolve, giving him more opportunities to showcase his talents. The chemistry between him and Auburn’s quarterbacks will continue to be a work in progress, but Lambert-Smith is confident that as they get more reps together, their connection will continue to strengthen.
“It’s all about timing and trust,” Lambert-Smith says. “The more we work together, the more I can anticipate where the ball is going to be. Once that happens, it opens up so many options for us.”
As for his future at Auburn, Lambert-Smith’s goal is clear: he wants to be a key contributor to a championship-winning team. He believes his confidence and ability, along with the support of his teammates and coaches, will help Auburn get back to the top of the SEC and compete for national titles.
In many ways, Lambert-Smith’s journey to Auburn and the confidence he has gained in the process mirror the broader transformation of the Auburn program under Coach Freeze. Both the player and the program are on the rise, and Lambert-Smith is determined to be a central figure in Auburn’s next chapter.
“I’m just excited for what’s to come,” he says. “I know we have the pieces, and with this new sense of confidence, we can really do something special.”
KeAndre Lambert-Smith’s renewed confidence, paired with his talent and leadership, could be one of the defining factors for Auburn as they look to make a push in the SEC and beyond. The combination of a fresh start, new opportunities, and personal growth is driving him to be one of the most exciting players on the Plains, and it’s clear that he’s ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.
