Auburn Coach Gus Malzahn Insists Tiger Have Quarterback Battle

Gus Malzahn insists Auburn really does have a quarterback battle.

Baylor transfer Jarrett Stidham seems to be the odds-on favorite to win the job over returning starter Sean White.

The coach said Thursday at Southeastern Conference media days that Auburn players “know it’s a legitimate competition.” But the Tigers have struggled in the passing game the past two seasons, and White has battled injury problems.

Auburn ranked last in the Southeastern Conference and 112th nationally in passing offense last season. Malzahn acknowledged quarterback depth has been the Tigers’ Achilles heel the past two years.

Auburn played three quarterbacks in the opening loss to Clemson last season. Malzahn promises he and new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey will have that battle settled quicker this time.