Hugh Freeze makes no apologies for creating a culture of competition at Auburn. In fact, the head coach is quite straightforward when it comes to competition between the players for positions.

After a poor showing in the spring game, Auburn recently added former Michigan State quarterback Payton Thorne from the transfer portal. It was a surprising move for some, especially incumbent Tiger QB Robby Ashford. Ashford had one pass for 29 yards alone in the spring game for the Tigers. The QB took the addition in stride, posting on social media: “Let’s work. Iron sharpens iron!! War Eagle.”

For his part, Freeze is focused on the good of the team and not the feelings of individual players. When asked by the media how Ashford might feel about another player being added to the room, Freeze was direct in doling out some life advice.

“Life is not easy,” he said, per WVTM 13’s Ryan Hennessy. “It’s an unrealistic expectation if you think you’re not going to have 4 quarterbacks. Obviously, with TJ leaving, we had to get another one. I’m not going to go into the season, nor will I next year or the year after (without 4). We’re going to sign 4 quarterbacks, and every single year it’s going to be a competition.”