Paul Finebaum is optimistic about Auburn Tigers’ future under Hugh Freeze, praising the program’s potential and upcoming success.

Paul Finebaum, one of college football’s most respected analysts, recently shared his thoughts on the Auburn Tigers’ future under head coach Hugh Freeze. Finebaum has been a fixture in the college football scene for years, providing insights and analysis that are often seen as a bellwether for how programs are perceived across the country. In a series of recent statements, Finebaum emerged bullish on Auburn’s trajectory, praising Hugh Freeze for his leadership and the program’s potential moving forward.

A New Era at Auburn

Hugh Freeze was hired as Auburn’s head coach in 2024, following a tumultuous period for the Tigers after the departure of Bryan Harsin. Freeze’s arrival was met with mixed reactions, especially given his controversial past. However, Finebaum sees Freeze as the right fit for the Auburn job, especially considering the difficult circumstances surrounding the program at the time. Freeze is known for his ability to recruit well and manage the intricacies of a college football program, and Finebaum believes that this could be the key to reviving Auburn’s fortunes.

While Auburn’s recent struggles have been well-documented, with a 6–7 season in 2024 and a mediocre 2023 performance, Finebaum believes that the foundation Freeze is laying will set the program up for future success. Auburn’s brand of football has always been tied to its defensive prowess, but Finebaum notes that Freeze’s offensive acumen, especially in developing quarterbacks, will help the program regain relevance in a loaded SEC.

Recruiting Success: A Major Positive

One of the primary reasons for Finebaum’s optimism is Auburn’s recent recruiting success. Freeze has managed to land some impressive talent in his first recruiting cycle, which is a major step forward for the Tigers. Historically, Auburn has been able to recruit elite talent, but under Harsin, the program struggled to attract the same level of player. Freeze’s ability to bring in top recruits, particularly on the offensive side of the ball, is a positive sign for the future.

In the 2025 recruiting class, Auburn secured several high-caliber players, including four-star quarterback prospects and high-ranking skill players. Finebaum has pointed out that Freeze’s ability to develop relationships with recruits, especially in the fertile recruiting ground of the Southeast, will be a big advantage moving forward. Auburn’s increased success in recruiting will also pay dividends in terms of depth and overall talent, allowing Freeze to build a more competitive roster for the 2025 season and beyond.

A key part of Freeze’s recruiting strategy has been his ability to connect with high school athletes. Players have responded well to his genuine approach, as Freeze has worked to rebuild relationships with high school coaches and players alike. Finebaum notes that this could lead to sustained success for the program as Freeze continues to recruit at a high level.

Quarterback Development: Key to Success

Another significant factor in Finebaum’s positive outlook for Auburn is the quarterback situation. In recent years, Auburn has struggled to find consistent play at the quarterback position, which has hindered the offense. Finebaum has been particularly impressed by Freeze’s ability to develop quarterbacks, citing his work with dual-threat quarterbacks in the past, such as former Ole Miss quarterback Chad Kelly.

Freeze’s success with quarterbacks has been a hallmark of his coaching career. Under his guidance, quarterbacks have shown significant improvement in their decision-making, consistency, and overall play. Finebaum believes that Auburn’s current quarterback room, including recent recruits and transfers, will thrive under Freeze’s tutelage. With the right quarterback, Auburn’s offense could take a significant step forward, and that would help the program compete more effectively in the SEC.

While it’s unclear who will be the starting quarterback for Auburn in 2025, Finebaum believes that the Tigers are in a much better position than they were in previous years. Freeze’s system is built to get the most out of his quarterbacks, and this is something Finebaum sees as a major plus for the Tigers moving forward.

Coaching Stability and Staff Retention

Coaching stability has also been a point of emphasis for Finebaum. The turnover Auburn has experienced over the last several years, with multiple head coaches and staff changes, has created an environment of uncertainty. However, Finebaum believes that Freeze’s commitment to building a stable, long-term program will help Auburn weather the storm and thrive in the coming seasons.

Freeze has surrounded himself with a coaching staff that understands the SEC and is well-equipped to recruit and develop talent. Finebaum has highlighted the retention of key staff members as a major positive, noting that continuity within the coaching staff is often overlooked but critical for success. This stability gives the program a foundation on which to build, as the staff can now work cohesively without the distractions of constant turnover.

The return of defensive coordinator Derek Mason, along with Freeze’s offensive expertise, means Auburn can expect a balanced approach to both sides of the ball. Finebaum points out that this continuity is a sign that the program is moving in the right direction and will be able to build a cohesive, competitive team moving forward.

The Road Ahead: Expectations for 2025

Looking ahead, Finebaum has high expectations for Auburn in the 2025 season. While the Tigers are unlikely to compete for a national title right away, Finebaum believes that they will be a significantly more competitive team in the SEC. Auburn’s success in recruiting, Freeze’s ability to develop talent, and the stability within the program make Finebaum optimistic that the Tigers will surprise some people in 2025.

Auburn’s schedule in 2025 presents challenges, particularly with the strength of SEC West teams such as Alabama, LSU, and Mississippi State. However, Finebaum has noted that the Tigers have a favorable chance of improving their win total and becoming bowl-eligible. If Auburn can develop its quarterback and maintain strong recruiting, it could be a very competitive team in the near future.

Auburn’s Bright Future Under Freeze

In conclusion, Paul Finebaum’s bullish stance on the Auburn Tigers and Hugh Freeze represents a growing sense of optimism for the program. While Auburn’s recent struggles have been tough, the appointment of Freeze as head coach has breathed new life into the program. Freeze’s recruiting successes, his ability to develop quarterbacks, and the stability within the coaching staff have positioned Auburn for future success.

Finebaum sees Auburn as a program on the rise, one that will be competitive in the SEC and capable of challenging the top teams in the conference. While there are still hurdles to overcome, the foundation Freeze has laid provides hope for the Tigers’ future. As Finebaum has noted, the 2025 season could be a turning point for Auburn, and with Freeze at the helm, the program is in good hands. The road to success might take time, but the signs are clear: Auburn’s future under Hugh Freeze is brighter than many expect.

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