For the Auburn Tigers, another week means another quarterback controversy. One week after Coach Harsin named a starter, the QB competition at Auburn has reopened. That’s right folks Auburn’s QB race is back.

TJ Finley’s Performance

I won’t dismiss Finley’s performance because he did get off to a strong start at 5/6 with 65 yards and a touchdown. Just a little while later, when Harsin expanded a little on the playbook, he started breaking down. He lost the support he had gained early in the game after two terrible turnovers. Finley was then benched in favor of Robby Ashford following the second interception, and boy was it a bad one. The final stat line for TJ Finley was 9/14 for 112 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Although I can’t say TJ Finley lost his starting job, I can assure you that during this week’s practice, Ashford will rotate with Finley in the first-team spot.

Robby Ashford’s Performance

Robby Ashford started the night with an early appearance and showed his impressive dual-threat ability. Ashford went into the game specifically for QB-designed runs. When TJ Finley was benched, he had the opportunity to display his arm talent. The final game stats for Robby Ashford were 4/7 and 100 yards. Robby Ashford appeared more comfortable and informed than TJ Finley despite not having played a single game the previous season. Robby Ashford’s passing ability wasn’t fully displayed, but I’m confident that will change in the game against San Jose State this week. TJ Finley is still a possibility to start, but I think Ashford looks the part and helps the offense get going.

Where do we go from here?

So what’s the next step? These upcoming practices leading up to San Jose State will be crucial for the Tigers’ offense because Coach Harsin and Kieasu have a big process this week in deciding on a starting quarterback. Against San Jose State, I think TJ Finley will start, but Harsin will adapt the two-quarterback rotation into the offense. Like I said before, this week’s practice will be crucial, even for Zach Calzada, who is the odd man out. I believe we could see him play against the Spartans if he impresses this week. I assume Ashford and Finley are currently neck-and-neck in the race, but Zach Calzada shouldn’t be written off if he can continue to improve.

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