Hugh Freeze is still supporting Payton Thorne, the man he personally selected to lead Auburn’s football offense. Regarding the quarterback’s command of his and Derrick Nix’s playbook, Freeze provided a largely encouraging assessment two weeks prior to the Tigers’ season opener against Alabama A&M.
Coach Freeze stated, “We’re totally different than last year,” on August 16 (via On SI). His comprehension of what is expected of him has advanced significantly since the spring. Right now, he’s doing several things of which I’m quite proud. It doesn’t mean he always accomplishes things quite perfectly, but at least he’s thinking it through. And if this occurs, I believe that will only be determined through representatives and discussions in which we will determine what I truly want you to take away from the play.”
In 2023, Freeze’s offense was disorganized due to disagreements with Philip Montgomery, his first-year offensive coordinator. Nix being Freeze’s right-hand man is possibly the biggest addition to the offense this offseason.
But things improve. The most gifted wide receiver corps Auburn has ever had is the Freeze Four: Cam Coleman, Perry Thompson, Malcolm Simmons, and Bryce Cain. Although they might not be Thorne’s first choice targets at first, veteran transfers KeAndre Lambert-Smith, Robert Lewis, and Sam Jackson V can be. Remember Thorne’s favorite target, returning tight end Rivaldo Fairweather?
No justifications for Payton Thorne in 2024
Dealing with an offensive coordinator Freeze didn’t get along with and an associate head coach in Cadillac Williams, who everyone knew wanted to be the head coach following a successful interim tenure in 2022, put Thorne in a difficult situation in 2023.
He gets the whole red carpet treatment in 2024, with Freeze’s full backing, no direct competition for QB1, and the best receiver bunch Tiger fans have seen in years, if not decades.
In 2024, there are no justifications for the former Michigan State standout. There’s going to need to be a difficult talk regarding the second half of the season if he’s not coaching a 5-0 or 4-1 club through September.
Leave a Reply