Hugh Freeze has been in big games before and knows how crucial ball security can be.

Freeze discussed one of the things he wants to see from his starting quarterback on Thursday at a radio call. Payton Thorne must prioritize limiting turnovers, according to Freeze.

“He’s got to take care of the ball in these kinds of games,” said Freeze via Tiger Talk. “It’s OK to punt. Don’t try to do too much, and stay within the system.”

The Michigan State transfer has 517 yards passing with 4 touchdowns and 3 interceptions so far. Auburn’s first test in SEC play will be in Week 4 on the road at Texas A&M.

Texas A&M is 2-1 after losing to Miami in Week 2. The Aggies bounced back and beat UL Monroe 47-3 the following week for their second win of the season.

Auburn squeaked out a win at Jordan Hare Stadium last season 13-10. It’ll be interesting to see if the Tigers can do the same in College Station.

Kickoff will be at noon ET on ESPN.