One of the main storylines during Auburn football’s 2023 Fall Camp is the quarterback battle. It almost feels like deja vu from the last fall camp, where TJ Finley was battling it out with Robby Ashford and Holden Geriner, only now instead of Finley it’s former Michigan State QB Payton Thorne.
Each of the quarterbacks has received praise from the coaching staff during fall camp, and each one brings something different to the table. To begin fall camp, all three quarterbacks will rotate evenly with the 1s, 2s, and 3s. Head coach Hugh Freeze has said that he would like to have it narrowed down to two QBs by the tenth practice.
While both Ashford and Geriner have been praised for various improvements over the offseason, Thorne has been lauded for his leadership, professionalism, and work ethic in his efforts to learn the position with Auburn football.
This weekend, the quarterbacks will face their first big test as the Tigers hold their first preseason scrimmage at Jordan-Hare, and offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Philip Montgomery wants to see several key things happen, per Auburn Rivals:
"“I just want to see somebody take control and take a step forward. Separate themselves,” said offensive coordinator Philip Montgomery. “That’s what you’re looking for in your quarterback position — a guy that’s gonna lead, guy that’s gonna make plays. He doesn’t have to be Superman, but he does have to be consistent in his play in his decision making and taking care of the football, and then moving us down the field and staying ahead of chains.”"
Montgomery went on to say the obvious, that it’s too early to say who will win the battle, but that the quarterback who ultimately earns the job will be the one who was the most consistent throughout fall camp.