Rod Bramblett

Early Life and Education

Rod Bramblett was born on November 5, 1965, in Alabama. He earned a bachelor's degree in political science with a minor in history from Auburn University in 1988. While attending Auburn, he began his broadcasting journey by working part-time at WZZZ and WCJM radio stations in Lanett, Alabama.

Broadcasting Beginnings

Following his early radio experience, Bramblett worked for WAUD in Auburn from 1989 to 1991 and again from 1993 to 1996. During this time, he served as a play-by-play announcer for local high school teams, including Lee-Scott Academy and Auburn High School. Between his stints at WAUD, he spent a year in Morristown, Tennessee, working for two local radio stations while serving as the voice of Morristown West High School football.

Rod Bramblett was a three-time recipient of the Alabama Sportscaster of the Year award, bestowed by the National Sports Media Association (formerly known as the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association), recognizing his excellence in sports broadcasting.

Voice of the Auburn Tigers

Bramblett became the official voice of Auburn University athletics, taking over as the play-by-play announcer for Auburn football and men's basketball in 2003. He had already been serving as the voice of Auburn baseball since 1993. As a key figure at Auburn Sports Properties—the multimedia rights holder for Auburn Athletics—he oversaw daily radio operations and anchored numerous athletic broadcasts.

In addition to radio duties, he hosted Auburn Football Review and contributed as a producer for the Auburn Football Every Day and Auburn Basketball Review television programs. His passionate calls and deep knowledge of the game made him a beloved figure among Auburn fans.

Family and Personal Life

Rod Bramblett was married to Paula East, and together they had two children: a daughter, Shelby, and a son, Joshua. Known for his humility and dedication to both family and profession, Bramblett was deeply respected in the Auburn community.

Tragic Death in Car Accident

On May 25, 2019, Rod and Paula Bramblett were involved in a tragic car accident in Auburn, Alabama. Their SUV, a Toyota Highlander, was struck from behind by a Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by a 16-year-old at the intersection of Shug Jordan Parkway and West Samford Avenue. Paula was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at East Alabama Medical Center. Rod was airlifted to UAB Hospital in Birmingham, where he later succumbed to his injuries. He was 53; Paula was 52.

A Lasting Legacy at Auburn

On August 31, 2019, during the Auburn Tigers’ football season opener at Jordan-Hare Stadium, the university honored Rod Bramblett with a touching pre-game tribute. The ceremony highlighted his decades of dedication and the indelible mark he left on Auburn athletics and its fan base.