Jarrett Stidham officially named Auburn Tigers starting QB

Auburn names Baylor transfer Jarrett Stidham starter over Sean White

Following months of speculation, the assumed has been confirmed. Finally, Baylor transfer Jarrett Stidham has been named the starting quarterback for the Auburn Tigers. Head coach Gus Malzahn confirmed reports via Twitter on Monday morning.

Stidham joined the Auburn program in December when he announced his commitment to the Tigers. Although he sat out the 2016 season, Stidham has been the favorite for the job since spring ball in February. His performance in the spring proved that, despite sitting a year, Stidham has still got it. He threw for 267 yards and a score on 16-for-20 passing in the spring game.

At Baylor, Stidham backed up standout Seth Russell. However, when Russell went down, Stidham was given the nod. He started three games before suffering an injury himself. Although he only started a handful of games, Stidham made 10 appearances. In that span, he completed nearly 70 percent of his passes and accumulated 1,265 yards. He threw for 12 touchdowns and two interceptions, as well.

Next: Top 15 College Football Players Who Never Won Heisman

Stidham’s teammates have praised his leadership ability throughout the summer. His work ethic and leadership abilities heightened his chance to start. Stidham, a sophomore, has put countless hours into studying the playbook and improving his mechanics, according to Malzahn. He beat out junior Sean White for the job. White, who was in-and-out of the starting job last season, struggled with injury late in the year.

The quarterback position has been a concern for Auburn since Nick Marshall left a few seasons ago. Stidham provides consistent play and gives Auburn a top-notch passing attack. The quarterback competition will likely continue into the season, but it’s unlikely Stidham gives up the job. The Tigers open up their season on Sep. 2 when Georgia Southern comes to town.