Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze is under increasing scrutiny as the Tigers approach the 2025 season. With the tumultuous quarterback situation, expectations are mounting for a significant turnaround. The arrival of high-profile transfer Jackson Arnold and the emergence of freshman Deuce Knight have intensified the spotlight on Freeze’s leadership and decision-making. During the 2024 SEC Media Days, the head coach acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating that he is thankful for the support from fans, who treated him like family. However, insiders suggest that anything less than a nine-win season in 2025 could be deemed a failure, putting Freeze’s tenure at Auburn in jeopardy.

SEC insider Michael Bratton appeared on the ‘That SEC Football Podcast’ with Paul Finebaum on April 12. The duo covered a range of topics concerning SEC football. At the end of the show, Finebaum asked a cheeky question. “When we see you in Atlanta for SEC Media Days, who do we need to get a restraining order for to keep them off of you?” 

Bratton didn’t blink before giving an answer. It’s that coach down in Auburn, he said. Finebaum was visibly surprised by the answer, and he asked what Bratton doesn’t like about Coach Freeze. “It’s never his fault, at least nine times out of ten it’s not his fault, it’s everybody else’s fault.”

Since taking over in 2023, Hugh Freeze has faced difficulties delivering consistent results for Auburn. In his first season, the team finished with a 6-7 record, including a loss to Maryland in the Music City Bowl. The following season saw further struggles, with Auburn starting 2-2 and suffering home losses to California and Arkansas. Citing frequent staff changes and player dismissals, Bratton said, “He’s fired everybody he’s had to fire. He’s gotten rid of players now.”

After the 2023 season, Hugh Freeze fired offensive coordinator Philip Montgomery following a disappointing offensive performance. Additionally, he parted ways with both coordinators and assumed play-calling responsibilities himself.

It’s not just Bratton who is unhappy with coach Freeze; former Ole Miss quarterback Bo Wallace, who played under Freeze from 2012 to 2014, criticized Freeze on Reddit, stating, “All the guy did was break my body in half, and I played every game getting a numbing shot just to go get him his money… That’s the truth about who Hugh Freeze is.”

The pressure is compounded by the belief that Hugh Freeze now has the resources to succeed. With a roster bolstered by talent and a favorable schedule featuring home games against Georgia and Alabama, expectations are high.

The Quarterback battle continues for Hugh Freeze

The quarterback situation at Auburn has been a focal point of discussion. Jackson Arnold, a five-star transfer from Oklahoma, was anticipated to lead the offense. However, freshman Deuce Knight’s impressive performance during spring practices has introduced competition.

Knight’s humility and dedication have been noted by coaches and teammates alike. He stated, “I’m just going out every day trying to get better. I’m not thinking about all that stuff. Just trying to be the best teammate I can.” This attitude, combined with his on-field performance, has positioned him as a legitimate contender for the starting role.

While Hugh Freeze has not publicly declared a starter, the internal competition appears to be a strategic move to elevate the team’s overall performance. By fostering a competitive environment, Freeze aims to ensure that the quarterback position is filled by the most prepared and capable player. However, some fans argue that Freeze’s indecision may undermine team confidence and affect their morale

As the 2025 season approaches, Hugh Freeze faces a critical juncture in his tenure at Auburn. With a talented roster and high expectations, the pressure to deliver results is immense. The quarterback competition between Arnold and Knight serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges and opportunities facing the program. Freeze’s ability to navigate these dynamics will be instrumental in determining the team’s success and his future with the Tigers.