Auburn Parts Ways with Hugh Freeze: What’s Next for the Coach?

Auburn University has officially terminated the contract of head football coach Hugh Freeze, following a disappointing season characterized by underperformance and controversy. The decision comes shortly after athletic director John Cohen likened Freeze’s coaching tenure to an unreliable vehicle, suggesting doubts about his ability to lead the team effectively.

The culmination of Freeze’s time at Auburn was marked by a particularly disheartening 10-3 loss against the University of Kentucky on home turf. This defeat not only signified the first time in 28 years that Auburn had allowed ten or fewer points in a game and still lost, but it also dropped Freeze’s overall record at the school to 15-19. Despite boasting a roster ranked among the top 13 in the nation, Freeze’s performance against ranked teams was starkly inadequate, with a record of just 1-11.

With the firing of Freeze, Auburn faces a critical coaching search in an increasingly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC). The university’s strong booster class is expected to play a significant role in the hiring process, intensifying the pressure to secure a high-caliber replacement. Notable figures in college football, such as James Franklin and Brian Kelly, who were also recently dismissed, had more substantial arguments for their retention compared to Freeze, whose reputation as an offensive strategist has significantly declined.

Auburn’s struggles under Freeze have raised eyebrows, particularly given the talent available on the team. The Tigers rank 118th in yards per play, despite possessing a skilled offensive line and elite wide receivers. His decision-making, particularly in selecting quarterbacks from the transfer portal, has drawn criticism. Notably, he overlooked Cam Ward, a sought-after player from Washington State, while opting for Jackson Arnold, who came at a hefty price tag of over $1 million.

As for Freeze’s future, the 56-year-old faces significant challenges ahead. His track record of success is now overshadowed by a series of missteps. Industry insiders suggest that there may not be a robust market for his services as a head coach moving forward, especially given his controversial past. Furthermore, Freeze is currently dealing with personal health issues, having been diagnosed with prostate cancer in February 2023. He is undergoing treatment but has opted against immediate surgery, choosing instead to monitor the situation closely.

Given these circumstances, it is plausible that Freeze may choose to take an extended break from coaching to focus on his recovery. Speculation has arisen about his potential departure from Auburn earlier in the season due to his health concerns. In past seasons, he has expressed intentions to reassess his health in January, indicating a willingness to prioritize his well-being.

Should he decide to return to coaching, a position at a Group of Five program may be the most realistic option. Freeze has previously achieved notable success at Arkansas State and Liberty, where he developed a reputation for turning programs around. However, his recent performance and the baggage he carries may limit opportunities at larger institutions.

Despite the challenges, Freeze remains in a favorable financial position, with a buyout estimated at around $15 million and no “duty to mitigate” clause, contrasting with coaches like Franklin who must seek new employment quickly to offset their payouts. While it seems unlikely Freeze would want to vanish from the coaching landscape entirely, his chances of regaining the prominence he once enjoyed at Ole Miss appear diminished.

In the world of college football, visibility and performance are crucial. As Auburn embarks on its search for a new head coach, the future remains uncertain for Freeze, whose once-promising career now faces significant hurdles.