National writer John Buhler from FanSided argues that Auburn football is stuck with head coach Hugh Freeze, even though his performance would typically lead to a firing. Buhler compares Freeze’s slow start to Doug Barfield’s in the 1970s, but suggests Auburn’s leadership is hesitant to make a move to avoid damaging its reputation. According to Buhler, firing Freeze so early would risk making Auburn the most undesirable job in the SEC.
“For as bad as things look right now, Auburn would need to finish with a record like 3-9 for a coaching change to be considered,” Buhler wrote. “Firing Freeze after two seasons would reflect poorly on Athletic Director John Cohen, and make the job incredibly toxic.”
Sports Illustrated’s Keith Cummings notes that Auburn is likely holding onto Freeze, hoping for improvement, despite knowing a coaching change might be best for the program. Freeze’s strong recruiting classes provide some reason for patience. Auburn hopes to keep its 2025 and 2026 recruits committed, while ensuring the 2023 and 2024 classes stay intact despite poor results on the field.
However, these losses complicate the situation, as Auburn risks its recruits questioning the program’s leadership. Securing a few wins this season is critical to reinforce the belief that these recruits can help turn things around, as they were promised during the recruiting process.
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