Payton Thorne discusses transition to Auburn, and winning the starting job
Payton Thorne will take the field as Auburn’s new starting quarterback for the season opener vs. UMass.
The Michigan State transfer got the nod over Roddy Ashford in the quarterback competition that unfolded this offseason.
The veteran Thorne, entering his 5th season of college football, spoke to the media on Wednesday about his transition to Auburn and earning the starting job. The 2-year starter at Michigan State had a learning curve early with the Tigers’ system. The first scrimmage had some growing pains, but Thorne admits that he’s looking to the regular season.
Payton Thorne said in Auburn’s first scrimmage was “frustrating” but he’s excited to be done with scrimmages now and just play live
— Matt Cohen (@Matt_Cohen_) August 23, 2023
Thorne produced 3,240 yards and 27 touchdowns during a stellar 2021 campaign in which Michigan State won 11 games and was vying with Noah Kim before transferring. However, Thorne is putting his time with the Spartans in the rearview mirror, and wants to “steer clear” of any Spartan talk.
Thorne said he wants to “steer clear” of talking about anything at Michigan State. He said a week before he entered the portal he didn’t think he was going to.
— Matt Cohen (@Matt_Cohen_) August 23, 2023
As for the dynamic around campus in his new surroundings, Thorne already feels extremely conformable .
“These are my kind of people down here,” Naperville, Illinois’s Payton Thorne says
— Matt Cohen (@Matt_Cohen_) August 23, 2023
Even though they were squaring off for the honor of QB1, Thorne is thankful he’s developed a close rapport with Ashford.
Things are good between Payton Thorne and Robby Ashford after this QB battle ended, Thorne said.
He said it wasn’t toxic, like some QB battles can be
— Matt Cohen (@Matt_Cohen_) August 23, 2023
Thorne takes over an Auburn offense that ranked No. 119 nationally in passing offense (172.7 yards per game) last season.
Auburn’s regular season opener vs. visiting UMass is slated for Sept. 2 at 3:30 p.m. ET and will be televised on ESPN.