Former CBS analyst Josh Pate has positioned Byrum Brown as the second‑best newcomer among SEC quarterbacks for the 2026 season, trailing only Alabama’s yet‑to‑be‑named starter.
Experience and Track Record
Brown brings a deep résumé from his time at USF, where he logged numerous starts against top‑level opponents. His career includes signature victories over Florida and Miami, underscoring his ability to thrive in high‑stakes matchups.
Addressing the Critiques
Critics have pointed to Brown’s throwing motion and a modest spring‑game showing, but Pate remains unmoved. He argues that past performance against elite defenses is a more reliable indicator than fleeting mechanical concerns.
Alabama’s Uncertain Future
The Crimson Tide will eventually settle on a starter, a decision that Pate believes will crown the conference’s most talented newcomer. Until that moment arrives, Brown’s consistent record keeps him firmly in the conversation.
Auburn’s Supporting Cast
Pate also notes that Brown’s familiarity with Auburn’s offensive weapons gives him a distinct edge. Mid‑summer projections and spring‑game results, he says, are only temporary gauges; the regular season will ultimately reveal the true hierarchy.
The confidence expressed by multiple analysts adds momentum to Auburn’s prospects, suggesting that the team could compete at a high level once the new quarterback takes the helm.