The Auburn football program needs to have a standout 2024 season after enduring three consecutive losing seasons, multiple coaching changes, and numerous disappointments. Head coach Hugh Freeze and the Tigers need to show progress.
With a top-10 recruiting class and several key transfers, the Tigers are positioned to make an impact. However, they did not acquire a transfer quarterback and will rely on Payton Thorne, who remains somewhat uncertain for the upcoming season.
With a new offensive coordinator, Freeze’s increased role in game-planning, and a revamped wide receiver corps, the question is whether Thorne can rise to the occasion.
“I’m a believer in Payton,” Freeze told the media, according to On3 Sports. “Quarterbacks will either receive praise or criticism, and there’s no middle ground. He has had his highs and lows, but I believe with better support around him, he can be a great leader and a solid quarterback in this league.”
While Freeze is optimistic about Thorne, he acknowledges that much of the team’s talent is young, including 5-star wide receiver Cam Coleman. Regarding Auburn making the college football playoffs this year, Freeze’s message, as per Auburn Undercover, is essentially to manage expectations.
“It’s too early for me to say,” Freeze commented on the possibility of Auburn reaching the CFP in 2024, via The Next Round. “I avoid setting unrealistic goals because they lead to frustration.
“I think we will improve, but it’s uncertain how quickly our young players will adapt to this level of competition. We will have to rely on our young talent, and while I believe they are very good, it’s hard to predict if they are ready to compete for the playoffs in their first year. However, I do expect us to be better.”
