KJ Jefferson called an upgrade at quarterback for Auburn
KJ Jefferson was deemed an upgrade for Auburn football under center in the hypothetical that the Arkansas transfer chose the Plains via the transfer portal by CBS Sports’ Dean Straka — who also profiled South Carolina and Mississippi State as potential fits.
“South Carolina, likely replacing starting quarterback Spencer Rattler in 2024 after a 5-7 season, is a potential destination, according to 247Sports,” Straka wrote. “Mississippi State could be another fit. The Bulldogs enter a new era under coach Jeff Lebby, who oversaw the Big 12’s top offense as Oklahoma’s offensive coordinator in 2023, and replace a mainstay in Will Rogers. It would be a homecoming for Jefferson, a Mississippi native. Auburn could also upgrade at quarterback after going a pedestrian 6-6 in coach Hugh Freeze’s first season, even after adding former Michigan State starter Payton Thorne via the transfer portal last offseason.”
Jefferson had more passing touchdowns, fewer interceptions, and had 436 more passing yards than Thorne, but context is critical here. Thorne threw the ball two games worth of attempts fewer than Jefferson, and was part of a run-first offense that heavily relied on the running back room; far more than the Razorbacks did with Raheim Sanders missing time.
So Jefferson isn’t really the upgrade he’s advertised to be.
KJ Jefferson shouldn’t be viewed as preferable Auburn football target to Will Howard
Jefferson was deemed an upgrade, but somehow Kansas State’s Will Howard was merely referred to as a potential depth piece for the Tigers’ quarterback room.
“According to the source, Washington, Louisville, Mizzou, Kentucky and Auburn will all be schools to watch as possible landing spots,” On3’s Pete Nakos wrote. “Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze has been open about adding depth at the quarterback position.”
Huh?
Howard is most certainly preferable to Jefferson as an option, and far more deserving to be projected as the starter.
Whether or not Auburn even offers these two is a different question altogether, though.
Jefferson may or may not be an upgrade, but it’s nice to know Auburn is a potential landing spot for several talented QBs, and you can celebrate with a guaranteed win at BetMGM! Just sign up and place your first bet of $10 or more on any conference championship game this weekend. You’ll instantly win $200, win or lose. Sign up with BetMGM before this offer expires this week!