Auburn Head Coach Hugh Freeze Hints at Playing All Three Quarterbacks Against Baylor
Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze has confirmed that the Tigers could potentially use all three of their quarterbacks in the highly anticipated season opener against Baylor. When asked directly about the possibility, Freeze gave a simple but telling response:
“Yes.”
That single word has sparked significant conversation among Auburn fans and across the college football world, signaling that the Tigers could enter the first game of the season with a multi-quarterback strategy. With the quarterback competition ongoing between Payton Thorne, Holden Geriner, and true freshman Walker White, Freeze’s comments suggest that Auburn’s offense might showcase multiple looks as the Tigers aim to start the year with a statement win.
Auburn’s Quarterback Battle: No Clear Winner Yet
Since Hugh Freeze took over as Auburn’s head coach, one of his biggest tasks has been rebuilding the Tigers’ offense — a unit that has struggled with consistency in recent seasons. Central to that effort has been the quarterback position, where Auburn has been searching for stability since the departure of Bo Nix in 2021.
Last season, Michigan State transfer Payton Thorne emerged as the starter after winning the job in fall camp. While Thorne showed flashes of strong play, Auburn’s passing game remained inconsistent, ranking near the bottom of the SEC in several offensive categories. Behind him, Holden Geriner saw limited action but impressed the coaching staff with his arm talent, while highly touted freshman Walker White has been one of the most talked-about recruits in Auburn’s recent history.
Heading into the 2025 season, Freeze has made it clear that the quarterback battle is still ongoing — and his one-word response about potentially playing all three quarterbacks reflects that uncertainty.
Why Hugh Freeze Might Use All Three QBs
There are several reasons Freeze could open the Baylor game with a multi-quarterback approach:
1. Offensive Flexibility
Freeze has long been known for his creative offensive schemes, dating back to his success at Ole Miss. By playing multiple quarterbacks, Auburn could keep Baylor’s defense guessing, mixing in different skill sets to exploit mismatches.
- Payton Thorne offers experience and decision-making in the passing game.
- Holden Geriner provides a big arm and vertical threat potential.
- Walker White brings dynamic mobility and dual-threat capabilities.
Using all three would allow Freeze to test different packages early in the season.
2. Keeping Competition Alive
By refusing to name a definitive starter, Freeze is sending a message: the quarterback spot must be earned. Giving each player meaningful reps against a quality opponent like Baylor ensures continued competition and forces all three to elevate their performances.
3. Building Depth for the Season
In today’s SEC, depth at quarterback is critical. Injuries happen, and having multiple QBs with live-game experience can be the difference between contending and collapsing late in the season. By rotating quarterbacks early, Freeze ensures Auburn will have options as the schedule intensifies.
The Challenge of Chemistry
While a multi-quarterback system offers versatility, it also comes with challenges. Offensive rhythm and chemistry are often built through repetition and consistency — something that can be disrupted when quarterbacks rotate frequently.
For Auburn’s wide receivers and offensive line, adapting to different timing, cadence, and playing styles can be difficult. If Freeze decides to play all three quarterbacks, balancing creativity with cohesion will be essential.
“You always want to get your best guy settled in,” Freeze admitted during spring practice earlier this year. “But at the same time, I have to do what gives us the best chance to win.”
Baylor Presents a True Early Test
Choosing to potentially rotate quarterbacks against Baylor is no small decision. The Bears, led by head coach Dave Aranda, boast one of the more disciplined defenses Auburn will face this season. Baylor’s ability to disguise coverages and bring pressure packages could make it risky to throw inexperienced quarterbacks into the fire.
However, Freeze has shown he’s not afraid to take calculated risks. Auburn’s offense struggled at times in 2024, and establishing a more dynamic passing attack will be a priority in 2025. Facing Baylor’s aggressive defense could give Freeze valuable insight into which quarterback handles pressure best — something that will be critical as Auburn enters the SEC gauntlet.
Fans React to the Possibility
Auburn fans have been buzzing since Freeze’s “Yes” comment went public. Some are excited about the idea, believing that showcasing multiple quarterbacks can highlight Auburn’s depth and adaptability. Others worry it could signal indecision or a lack of confidence in any one player to lead the offense consistently.
On social media, several fans voiced optimism:
“I love it,” one fan tweeted. “Let’s see what all three guys can do and let the best man win.”
Others expressed caution:
“We need one leader,” another wrote. “Constant rotation at QB could throw off the offense.”
This divide among the fanbase underscores the high stakes surrounding Auburn’s quarterback situation — and why Freeze’s decision in Week 1 will be closely scrutinized.
Freeze’s Track Record With Quarterbacks
One reason Auburn fans trust Freeze’s judgment is his history of developing quarterbacks. During his time at Ole Miss, he helped guide Bo Wallace and Chad Kelly to standout seasons, with Kelly leading the SEC in passing yards in 2015.
Freeze’s offensive system thrives when paired with a quarterback who can make quick decisions and exploit defensive mismatches. However, he’s also shown flexibility in tailoring his scheme to the strengths of his personnel. That adaptability could explain why he’s open to playing multiple quarterbacks against Baylor before settling on a long-term starter.
Looking Ahead
Auburn’s matchup with Baylor is more than just a season opener — it’s an opportunity for the Tigers to make a statement in Hugh Freeze’s second year at the helm. After finishing 7-6 in 2024, Auburn is looking to take the next step toward SEC contention, and the quarterback position will be the key factor in determining how far the Tigers can go.
Whether Freeze sticks to his word and plays all three quarterbacks or ultimately narrows the rotation during the game, one thing is clear: the Baylor matchup will set the tone for Auburn’s season and may provide the clearest answer yet about who will lead the Tigers into the heart of SEC play.
“Our job is to win games,” Freeze said earlier this offseason. “Whoever gives us the best chance to do that, that’s who we’ll roll with.”
For now, Auburn fans will have to wait until kickoff to see just how bold Freeze’s quarterback strategy will be.
Do you want me to follow this up with a breakdown of Auburn’s three QBs — strengths, weaknesses, and how each fits into Freeze’s offensive scheme? It would complement this article perfectly.
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