Auburn QB set up for success in Year 2 with program

Payton Thorne's first season with Auburn was a mixed bag. The graduate transfer from Michigan State threw 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions as the Tigers finished with a 6-7 record (3-5 SEC). The Auburn offense struggled to move the ball through the air and ranked last in the conference in passing offense. 

Although the Tigers did not move the ball well through the air, they remained competitive against ranked opponents, losing by a touchdown or less in matchups against Alabama, Georgia, and Ole Miss. Any improvement in this area could significantly impact the outcome of games. 

Though Thorne had his share of struggles last season, not all the blame should be placed on him. The offensive line did not make things easy for him, allowing 34 sacks. The Tigers are looking to change this as they enter the season with a more experienced offensive line that will feature four seniors, including Mississippi State transfer left tackle Percy Lewis. Lewis has been revered for his 6-foot-7 frame and strength that has the potential to provide a boost to the passing game and give Thorne more time to operate in the pocket.

The wide receiver room was another aspect of the team that raised concerns. Thorne struggled to find a consistent target within the largely inexperienced group last fall. No receiver on the team finished with more than 500 receiving yards as tight end Rivaldo Fairweather led the team with 394 yards.

This year, Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze has made the proper additions to the wide receiver room to give Thorne more help.

Transfers Robert Lewis and KeAndre Lambert-Smith give the Tigers much-needed experience at wide receiver. Lewis began his career at Georgia State, putting up 1,323 yards and 14 touchdowns in three seasons, including an explosive 220-yard game against Charlotte.

Lambert-Smith has big-play potential as well. The Penn State transfer put up 1,598 yards and 11 touchdowns during his four-year run with the Nittany Lions, and he is the only player in Penn State history with multiple 80-yard receptions.

Along with five-star freshman Cam Coleman, who has been turning heads with his performance in spring and summer practices, the newcomers should give Thorne tools to improve his passing numbers and get the Auburn offense moving.

Coaching changes will also play a role in Thorne's success. Freeze's decision to bring in Derrick Nix as the Tigers' coordinator should yield positive results. Nix, who served as the Rebels' running backs coach and later as wide receivers coach, has an impressive track record mentoring NFL talents such as Elijah Moore, Malik Heath, and Jonathan Mingo. Under Nix's guidance, this Auburn offense should be able to unlock its full potential and put Payton Thorne in a prime position to succeed.