The Auburn Tigers finished the 2024 season with a 5-7 overall record and a 2-6 mark in SEC play under Hugh Freeze. While the expectations ran high, it declined from their 6-7 finish in 2023. Despite back-to-back losing seasons, Coach Freeze became the first Auburn head coach in half a century to receive a third year on the job. Wouldn’t you say he’s lucky?
However, beyond that stroke of fortune, the new season comes with immense pressure for the 55-year-old, and he isn’t rushing the playoff conversation just yet. The realistic head coach keeps his vision clear and focuses on closing the gap left by the Tigers last season, rather than aiming for just wins.
Hugh Freeze Pushes Back on Playoff Talk but Says Auburn’s Future Is Bright
Nobody can deny that Hugh Freeze is in the hot seat after failing to take the Tigers to a bowl game last season. Experiencing back-to-back losses for two consecutive years weighs heavily on the team, and Freeze feels that pressure more than anyone else.
Looking ahead to 2025, Auburn has assembled a strong transfer portal class, sparking optimism for a rebound season. Fans are hoping for a big leap, but the coach isn’t rushing anything. He is taking measured steps, focusing on steady progress and a long-term solution to build a complete roster that can compete at the highest level.
“I’m not a fool. I think we’ve got to go bowling,” Freeze said on “The Next Round podcast” as he was asked if Auburn could make the playoffs in 2025.
He added, “You know, look, I inherited a program that didn’t have a top-25 recruiting class for four years. You’re not going to win in this league. We’ve now had two full recruiting classes, both top 10. I think one more, then your roster looks complete.”
He has reshaped the team through the transfer portal, with key additions like quarterback Jackson Arnold from Oklahoma and wide receiver Eric Singleton from Georgia Tech. However, the Tigers are sure that they are building a stronger foundation for the future.
Freeze also acknowledges his responsibility for the mistakes made in 2024.
“We could have won some games last year, and we’ve got to find a way to make sure we’re excellent in those areas that cost us, those that put us in a position to be at least bowl eligible, if not more,” Freeze added.
KEEP READING: ‘Always Answer When Bo Calls’ — Auburn Coach Hugh Freeze’s Unexpected Phone Call That Changed His Day at Regions
For Auburn, bowl eligibility is the first step. But with the College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams in 2025, new opportunities are opening up for all the teams. Freeze isn’t making any bold claims, but his confidence in Auburn’s trajectory suggests that a breakthrough season could be on the horizon.
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