SEDMD24: Freeze, Auburn have the look of a team ready to contend
Auburn Tigers quarterback Peyton Thorne takes questions from the media at SEC Media Days in Dallas. The senior will look to improve in 2024. (Courtesy Southeastern Conference)
By GRAHAM DUNN
DALLAS - As Hugh Freeze took the podium at SEC Media Days on Thursday, it seemed as though the look on his face might be considered stern.
Not unhappy. Not angry. Maybe hungry.
It was the look of a determined head football coach ready to take on a season that is begging for a turnaround by the Auburn Tigers.
“I do believe we've improved our culture, our chemistry, and our roster,” he said. “Most places I think it takes you two full recruiting cycles to get your roster like you want it when you inherit a program that was down. It's been my experience.
“But I've also -- every place we have been, I think we've seen improvement in year two. So I know that we're on the right track. We're recruiting at a high level. So is everybody else. But we're recruiting at a high level. And the standard and accountability and culture is getting better and the chemistry is among the staff is better, which is breeding confidence into our players. So I think we're on the right track. But what does that mean in win-loss total this fall? I'm not sure yet.”
Seemingly, the talk of improving on last year’s 6-7 record hinges on quarterback play, particularly that of senior Payton Thorne, who returns for a second year.
Thorne was subpar for much of the 2023 season, so much that backup Robbie Ashford got a start and played in 10 games before running off to South Carolina. Neither one tilted the scale statistically with Thorne earning a 129 efficiency rating while Ashford’s was 106.
Thorne earned the starting role with a decent spring but Freeze wasn’t ready to go full guns in praising his starter.
“Again, I think it's two things -- three things,” Freeze said. “I've seen him play at a high level at a power five school. Two, I think in year two with us and him sensing the chemistry in the offensive staff room is bred confidence in him, but probably most importantly I think he feels like if he's supposed to take a three-step drop from the shot gun and throw a curl route, I think he feels confident that he has guys that can win. And when you are not confident on that that they can win at the top end, you become really really hesitant and your throw is late or it doesn't go off at all and now the pressure comes. And those three things to me are the reason I'm optimistic for him in year two.”
Thorne batlted three others for the starting role in the spring. He became more comfortable with what Freeze and the AU coaching staff asked of him, settling the starter’s slot, at least for now.
“I feel like me and (Freeze) are really on the same page right now. We're working to really see eye-to-eye on everything with the offense, and that comes with watching film. That comes with being on the field and asking questions.
“I think that we're really in a good place right now, and it's going to continue to get better, and I'm really excited to see what it's like working directly with him this offseason -- or this season.”
The fans’ chatter has pointed to lack of playmakers over the years. No matter who the quarterback has been, the wideout position has suffered.
But the optimism has risen thanks to the arrival of Cam Coleman, a true freshman who was rated a five-star by recruiting specialist. Freeze also mentioned Perry Thompson and Malcolm Simmons, both from the latest signees. KeAndre Lambert-Smith is a transfer from Penn State that has everybody hopeful.
“I think Perry Thompson has the physical tools,” Freeze said. “You start there for the traits. Do they have the physical size and strength and speed to do that? Both of those kids. So does Malcolm and so does Bryce. Perry is now just getting with us. It's really hard to judge exactly how they will handle everything. But it's start with a work ethic and a maturity about your approach and don't think you have it all figured out. Be coachable. And cam was absolutely that in spring. He wants to be coached. He's going to play. I just -- I'm careful not to put unreal expectations on them just yet.”