Official: Hugh Freeze names Payton Thorne Auburn's starting quarterback

The Tigers have named their starting quarterback for game one against UMass.

Lance Dawe | Aug 17, 2023

Official: Hugh Freeze names Payton Thorne Auburn's starting quarterback /

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Auburn Tigers

The Tigers have named their starting quarterback for game one.

Auburn has tabbed Payton Thorne as QB1, per multiple head coach Hugh Freeze. Thorne transferred in from Michigan State after the spring and has been battling with incumbent Robby Ashford and freshman Holden Geriner for the starting job.

Thorne finished an accomplished quarterback at Michigan State, setting single-season records for total yards, total touchdowns and passing touchdowns. He ranks fifth in career total touchdowns, fifth in career total yards, fourth in career passing touchdowns and third in single-season passing yards.

He's not a dazzling arm talent in terms of raw strength, but was excellent attacking downfield in his two seasons with the Spartans. He's a great system fit for Freeze and Montgomery.

Career pass attempts - 861 (7.5 YPA)

Career pass yards - 4,693 (61.0%)

Career pass touchdowns - 49

Career rush yards - 270

Career rush touchdowns - 6

Best game of career: Vs Pittsburgh (12/30/2021) - 29-of-50 passing, 3 touchdowns, 1 interception

The Tigers kick off the 2023 season on September 2nd at home vs UMass at 2 p.m. CT on ESPN.

Here's a look at the entire 2023 schedule:

Sept. 2nd vs UMass

Sept. 9th at California

Sept. 16th vs Samford

Sept. 23rd at Texas A&M