The Auburn Tigers faced another challenging quarterback situation during their game against Arkansas, resulting in a 24-14 loss. Hank Brown, a second-year freshman, started the game but struggled with three first-half interceptions. Despite a better performance from Payton Thorne in the second half, the turnovers could not save the Tigers from their second consecutive home loss marred by turnovers. Thorne had faced four interceptions in a previous game against California.

Coach Hugh Freeze now faces a decision on the starting quarterback as they prepare to host No. 15 Oklahoma next week. The priority is to find a quarterback who can avoid turnovers and running backs who can secure the ball. The offensive struggles were evident as Damari Alston also fumbled into the end zone, contributing to a total of five turnovers in the game.

Although Brown had a strong performance in the previous game with four touchdown passes and no interceptions, he struggled against Arkansas with 7-of-13 passing for 72 yards and multiple interceptions. Freeze acknowledged the poor quarterback play and expressed the need for improvement in coaching the quarterbacks.

Thorne, who had a more solid performance in the game, completed 13 of 22 passes for 213 yards and two touchdowns to KeAndre Lambert-Smith. Despite one interception, Freeze praised Thorne’s overall performance and decision-making on the field. Thorne, a veteran who previously started for Michigan State, offers experience and stability to the quarterback position.

With upcoming games against tough opponents like Oklahoma, Georgia, and Missouri, Freeze emphasized the urgency of addressing the offensive turnovers. The team aims to rectify their mistakes and improve their performance moving forward. Finding solutions to the turnover issue is now a top priority for Auburn as they navigate the challenging SEC play ahead.