Auburn football players talk about the change from Payton Thorne to Hank Brown at QB1
It has been a roller coaster ride on the Plains to kick off the 2024 Auburn football season. The Tigers came out in triumphant fashion during week one to beat Alabama A&M by 70 points but fell flat on their faces against the Cal Golden Bears in week two. By the time film was reviewed, it was clear to head coach Hugh Freeze that many of the problems were the fault of returning starter and fifth-year senior Payton Thorne, so a change had to be made.
Redshirt freshman Hank Brown got the news late in the week, and earned his first start against New Mexico on Saturday night. Brown originally beat out Holden Geriner and Walker White for the backup role in fall camp, but has now been promoted to the leader of the offense.
According to Freeze, if Brown continues to play well and improve it will be a permanent fix. Although it was unexpected, the team — including Payton Thorne himself — has reacted well to Brown's promotion, and here's what they had to say about the redshirt freshman.
Offensive lineman Dillon Wade on Brown's progression, per The Montgomery Advertiser:
"Hank is pretty special," Wade said. "I'm glad to see him progress and become a better quarterback as he proceeds through this process."
Hank Brown on his goals as QB1, per Auburn Wire:
“As a leader, one thing that I always strive to do is just be a servant to my teammates. However, they need my help. However, I can be there for them, but also at the same time, just motivating and encouraging them. That’s something that comes with time and throughout the offseason, just spending time with them and learning their story. Wherever they are and where and how they grew up. That’s obviously a big part of being a leader – just building relationships with teammates and growing alongside them.”
Wide receiver Camden Brown on his journey with Hank, per The Montgomery Advertiser:
"Me and him been doing with the twos all fall camp. So, it's never a surprise to me," Brown said. "Him stepping up and performing, I'm just happy for him. ... We just used to throw and catch, and he would just be there. Used to be there for each other, and you can see that kind of tonight, where our connection was.
"I'm just happy for Hank, humble dude, just great, just passionate about the game.”
Hank Brown and the Auburn Tigers return to action this Saturday in Jordan-Hare Stadium to open SEC play against the Arkansas Razorbacks at 2:30.