It’s no secret Hugh Freeze inherited a formidable rebuilding job when he agreed to become Auburn’s head coach in November of 2022. Gus Malzahn was very consistent in his time on the Plains, but never lost less than four games in any of his eight seasons except for year one going 12-2 and winning the SEC. However, recruiting began to slip during his final season and Bryan Harsin was an abysmal recruiter during his two brief seasons. As a result, the Tigers have posted records of 6-5, 6-7, 5-7 and 6-7 in the last four years. Their record in the SEC is 14-20. Why should anyone expect anything different this year? That’s a great question.
Here are some legitimate facts and informed opinions. You can ultimately make up your own mind as to your level of expectation. Hugh Freeze was able to bring in the No. 8 recruiting class in the country in 2024 along with 14 players through the transfer portal at positions of immediate need. That is in addition to players like tight end Rivaldo Fairweather (led Auburn in receiving in 2023), offensive guard Dillon Wade (started every game on the o-line), linebacker Austin Keys (was hurt most of the year, but became a starter late) and edge rusher Jalen McLeod (3rd in tackles, 2nd in tackles for loss & 2nd in sacks). All those players came to the Loveliest Village through the transfer portal in 2023 and will all be major contributors in 2024.
