Hugh Freeze reveals where Auburn quarterbacks have improved during spring

Complicated would be the way to describe Auburn‘s quarterback situation last year. Robby Ashford and TJ Finley both game time as the starter but not without a ton of headaches in between. Thankfully, Hugh Freeze is now on the Plains and there seems to be a clean slate for everyone.

Auburn’s spring game will take place on Saturday, as practice is nearly done until fall. Freeze has had a good opportunity to evaluate every quarterback, discussing where they have improved. He began with the past two starters, having positive things to say about both Ashford and Finley.

“Robby’s pocket presence,” Freeze said. “Quieter feet in the pocket. TJ is playing within the system. That’s gotten better. He’s made some accurate throws. Just sometimes they shouldn’t have been thrown. They should have been handed off. This is new to him. So, he’s done that.”

Ashford close the 2022 season out as the starter, with Finely being injured. While Auburn struggled to get wins, the progress Ashford made throughout the season was considered positive. His performance against the Iron Bowl was a special one as well, rushing for 121 yards and having three total touchdowns.

Finely will be feeling like there is a fresh opportunity ahead of him. His time at Auburn has not fully clicked and playing for a new head coach allows the quarterback to prove himself once again.

Outside of those two, Holden Geriner is getting a look as a youngster. Freeze is impressive with him as well, talking about the explosive plays Geriner has been able to produce. If Auburn is looking for a serious down-the-field threat, Freeze might not have to look much further than Geriner.

“Holden’s accuracy,” Freeze said. “Particularly on down-the-field throws. He had several explosives on Wednesday. He’s got to get still in the pocket too but he’s still young.”

When the NCAA transfer portal was previously open, Auburn was continually linked with some top-level quarterbacks. Nothing ever came to fruition, even in Freeze felt like he needed to add something to the room. While the portal will once again come open, Freeze may be set with the three available.

Fans will have the opportunity to see the progress of Ashford, Finley, and Geriner at Jordan-Hare Stadium on Saturday afternoon. With Freeze having the opportunity to hype them up beforehand, some impressive showings should be on the card in a new-look offense.