Auburn football landed its most notable transfer in May when former Michigan State quarterback Payton Thorne signed with Auburn.
Thorne’s presence completes an offensive overhaul built by Hugh Freeze, as the Tigers are expected to have a new receiver rotation, offensive line, and quarterback in 2023.
Thorne has plenty of experience as he arrives at Auburn with two full seasons of experience. After losing an experienced quarterback to the transfer portal, how will Michigan State rebound?
Spartans head coach Mel Tucker recently spoke to the media during a recruiting camp at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. During his availability, the topic of Thorne’s transfer was discussed. Tucker says that he feels that his team will rebound following the loss of Thorne, but has nothing but great things to say about him.
“I just wish Payton the very best of luck,” Tucker said. “He’s a really good player, a better person, got a great family. We wish him well.”
Tucker also shared his thoughts on the transfer portal as a whole. Of course, there are plenty of reasons for a college athlete to transfer to another school, could one reason be the idea of “greener pastures?” Tucker says yes.
“We’ve seen it right? We’ve gotten guys out of the portal, and it’s really common. So, I don’t think it’s anything that anyone should be surprised about,” Tucker said.
Thorne is on campus and is set to compete with incumbent Robby Ashford for the starting quarterback job this summer. Thorne has passed for 6,493 yards and 49 touchdowns in three seasons at Michigan State and brings two full seasons of starting experience to Auburn. His best season came in 2021 when he threw for 27 touchdowns and 3,232 yards while leading Michigan State to an 11-2 record and a Peach Bowl victory.
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