College Football Quarterback Receives Venmo Requests After Disappointing Performance

Auburn quarterback Payton Thorne received more than just criticism following the Tigers' upset loss to the California Bears in Week 2. According to Thorne's account, the second-year starter was sent Venmo requests following his four interception day in Jordan-Hare Stadium.

Thorne described the challenge of blocking out the noise in an appearance on “The Next Round ” on Tuesday.

"Obviously everyone says just don’t listen to it and all that," Thorne said. "Sometimes, that’s easier said than done because, in today’s world, they come at you from all different angles. You hear it verbally. That’s probably the least one. But, just walking down the street, you hear it sometimes. And then, obviously the social media, they hit you on Venmo, all types of stuff."

“They’re definitely not sending cash,” Thorne continued. “It’s funny. When they lose money, they want their money back but when they win money on a parlay, no one’s ever sent me any of the money.”

The former Michigan State transfer had a stellar performance the week prior against Alabama A&M, throwing for 322 yards and four touchdowns and rushing for 49 yards and another score on the ground. It seemed like the offense under second-year head coach Hugh Freeze had made notable improvements over the offseason until a dismal showing as 11.5-point favorites against Cal.

It's easy to point fingers when a team, or player, doesn't live up to expectations. The quarterback position isn't only the most difficult because of the requirements on the field. Dealing with outside criticism is a different challenge entirely.

Thorne and company will be tested mightily over the coming weeks. After a breather versus New Mexico on Saturday, the Tigers will take on Arkansas, No. 15 Oklahoma, No. 1 Georgia and No. 6 Missouri.

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