Auburn held its first scrimmage of spring practice on Saturday, bringing a chance to catch up on the most notable quarterback battle in the SEC West for 2017.
It was the first time that Jarrett Stidham has really weighed in on the competition since he started practicing with the team after his transfer from Baylor. Since Sean White has been limited during spring drills, Stidham has gotten a chance to do a lot of work with the first-string offense. And given his production in limited action and potential in Auburn’s offense, Stidham’s part in this battle is getting a lot of attention.
The move has been a culture change for Stidham, who arrived with the expectations of competing for, and winning the starting job.
In his time with the media, Gus Malzahn warned reporters not to count out Sean White, Malik Willis or Woody Barrett in the battle, per 247Sports. He also reminded everyone that the starter won’t be named this spring, and the competition will continue into fall practice. After playing quarterback in 2016, Jonathan Franklin III has been getting most of his work at wide receiver this spring and also could see action as a punt returner.
New offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey was hired to replace Rhett Lashlee (off to UConn) because of Malzahn’s belief in his ability to develop quarterbacks, an area where Malzahn himself has been questioned during his time with the Tigers. There’s not going to be too much certainty for this race until fall camp because White is still limited with a forearm injury, but he’s throwing again in practice now and shouldn’t be ruled out.
When Auburn was rolling in the middle of 2016, White was efficient and effective. He won’t be bounced until he’s healthy and ready to compete.
