Auburn Tigers football coach Hugh Freeze wasn't the head coach when AU took back-to-back losses to Penn State in 2021 and 2022, but he's recruiting like he's got a vendetta against Nittany Lions coach James Franklin.
Freeze's recent flip of four-star Nazareth (PA) product Peyton Falzone reportedly has PSU unclear on what to do with their 2026 QB room.
Falzone's flip was a massive surprise to those in University Park.
"Falzone's departure comes soon after participating in Penn State camps and appearing to be locked into his home-state school. Though a raw quarterback talent, the high school senior-to-be does own superior speed and athleticism with his impressive 6-foot-5, 200-pound frame," the York Daily Record's Frank Bodani wrote.
"It's uncertain how hard coach James Franklin's staff will push to sign a second quarterback in this class. They haven't done that since Allar and Central York's Beau Pribula in 2022."
Falzone made it clear that his faith played a role in choosing Auburn (for now).
"Auburn is a place full of tradition. My family and I have spent a lot of time discussing the school and its blend of elite football and high-level academics. It has it all. I'm blessed to be able to play at a school with a strong tradition of faith and family running throughout the university and the community. All of that is very important to us. I can't wait to be there. War Eagle," Falzone said, per 247 Sports.
Falzone may have a long wait on the Plains. Jackson Arnold figures to have two years of eligibility left by the time he lands on campus, and Deuce Knight may have four if he takes a redshirt for the 2025 season.
Even still, Auburn won his commitment; finally scoring a meaningful win over Penn State this decade.