Auburn football: Mike Bobo says TJ Finley “commands respect” from team

Auburn football will head on the road for an SEC matchup versus South Carolina this weekend, and Bo Nix will not be the starting quarterback for the first time since 2018. LSU transfer TJ Finley will take over against the Gamecocks for his second year in a row.

Though he’s played the role of backup to Nix for most of the season, Finley has been taking just as many snaps at practice. According to Auburn football offensive coordinator Mike Bobo, Finley has had a good first week of practice as QB1 due to his intense preparation for this moment all season, per AL.com:

"“It’s putting in the work, putting in the time, studying, and he’s been doing that even when he was a backup,” Bobo said. “… He’s preparing before we even had the meeting with the coach. And I think that’s always a good sign for guys that you’re prepared before the meeting even starts. Yes, we’re going to go over it again. But you’re so prepared you’ve got questions when I start going over the over the concept of that play."

Both Finley and the coaching staff have emphasized the support that the team has given their new quarterback, and everyone is focused on coming together to win the remaining two contests. While Finely is still working on improving his fundamental skills, his experience in the Georgia State game earlier this season helps position the QB for success:

"“He’s got some poise; he’s got command,” Bobo said. “When he takes the field, he does a good job of leading the guys in not just getting them lined up — (but) taking over. You’re like a coach on the field as a quarterback, and he has a presence about him, and commands respect from the other guys, which is good to see.”"

All eyes will be on TJ Finley this weekend, but he will be in good company as he takes on the new challenge. Auburn football versus South Carolina will kick off at 6:00 p.m. central on Saturday night from Williams-Brice Stadium.