Hugh Freeze expected to name Payton Thorne Auburn's starting quarterback

The Tigers may be on the verge of announcing their starting quarterback.

Lance Dawe | Aug 17, 2023

Hugh Freeze expected to name Payton Thorne Auburn's starting quarterback /

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Auburn Tigers

The Tigers may be on the verge of announcing their starting quarterback.

Sources have confirmed to Auburn Daily that Payton Thorne, a Michigan State transfer the Tigers added this offseason, is expected to be named the starting quarterback.

Thorne finished an accomplished quarterback at MSU, 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