Auburn’s Hugh Freeze Isn’t Just Losing—He’s Redefining How to Lose Spectacularly
And here’s the uncomfortable truth most Auburn fans don’t want to admit…
By Joseph Goodman | AL.com
Published: October 12, 2025 | Updated: October 12, 2025
Let’s be brutally honest: Hugh Freeze’s tenure at Auburn isn’t just a series of losses—it’s a masterclass in how to turn potential into disappointment. While some coaches struggle to win close games, Freeze has somehow perfected the art of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a coaching problem, or is Auburn’s entire system fundamentally broken?
For years, Auburn football has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but under Freeze, the lows have become the norm. Whether it’s baffling play-calling, late-game collapses, or an inability to adapt, the Tigers’ struggles can’t just be blamed on bad luck. This is a pattern—one that raises uncomfortable questions about leadership, player development, and whether Freeze’s past successes (hello, Ole Miss) were more about timing than talent.
Now, before the die-hard fans come for me—yes, rebuilding takes time. But at what point does patience become denial? Other programs have turned things around faster with far less resources. Meanwhile, Auburn’s losses aren’t just piling up; they’re becoming predictable. And this is the part most people miss: predictable failure is far worse than occasional mistakes. It suggests a systemic issue no amount of recruiting can fix.
So, let’s spark a debate: Is Hugh Freeze the wrong coach for Auburn, or is the problem deeper than one man? Could the pressure of the SEC be exposing flaws in his coaching philosophy? Or—here’s a hot take—is Auburn’s administration setting him up to fail with unrealistic expectations?
Sound off in the comments. Agree? Disagree? I’ll be reading every response.
Joseph Goodman is AL.com’s lead sports columnist. For more unfiltered takes (and maybe a few laughs), subscribe to his free newsletter, SPORTS! Happy Hour, here.
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