Pressure Mounting? Analyst Warns Hugh Freeze Must Deliver Big Wins to Secure Auburn Future
Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze was initially believed to have a long leash heading into the 2024 season, even as the Tigers’ hopes for a winning record began to dwindle.
But could that patience be wearing thin?
Sports Illustrated’s Terrance Biggs suggests that Freeze’s job security might hinge on delivering double-digit win seasons moving forward.
“With Auburn pouring millions into the football program, the expectation is clear immediate results,” Biggs wrote. “Freeze can’t afford slow progress. The investment demands big returns, meaning consistent double-digit wins and much stronger seasons.”
He warned that if Freeze fails to meet those lofty standards, someone else will be given the keys to Auburn’s revamped program. “Patience isn’t Auburn’s strong suit. In fact, Freeze has already benefited from more leniency than any coach in nearly 50 years. The talent is there, thanks to the transfer portal the rest is up to him.”
Despite external speculation, Auburn athletic director John Cohen maintains that Freeze has never been in danger of losing his job.
“At no point,” Cohen told the Montgomery Advertiser when asked about Freeze being on the hot seat. “I work at an incredible university with incredible leadership. There’s constant communication across all our sports, not just football. And I truly believe we’re all aligned in our vision. That doesn’t mean we don’t have disappointments or areas we can improve. But the foundation is strong.”
Cohen pointed to Auburn’s elite recruiting classes and the unwavering support Freeze has from his players as signs of a promising future. “Where there are top-10 recruiting classes, success usually follows. When players are willing to fight for their coach and help him build, something special is happening.”
The reality likely falls somewhere in between. Cohen’s public confidence may be more about reinforcing belief in the program before the season rather than reflecting any past considerations of firing Freeze. However, Auburn’s late-season resurgence including a ranked victory over Texas A&M in Week 13 helped quell concerns for now.
Had Freeze suffered more embarrassing losses, the conversation might be different. And if the Tigers struggle again in 2025, Auburn’s patience could finally run out.
