Auburn, Clemson Football Teams Expected To Win Nine Games In 2025 Season

Auburn football, entering its third year under coach Hugh Freeze, faces a challenging 2025 season with hopes of its first winning record since 2020, despite recent recruiting setbacks. The Tigers currently have only six commits for the 2026 class and have seen multiple high-profile decommitments, placing them near the bottom nationally and in the SEC rankings, though Freeze remains optimistic about securing a top-10 class by December. Recruiting challenges stem partly from new NCAA regulations limiting roster sizes and recruiting freedoms, which Freeze says complicate talent acquisition despite strong relationships and program appeal. Phil Steele's preseason projection places Auburn 10th in the SEC, a slight improvement from last year, with eight players making preseason all-conference teams, signaling individual talent amidst team struggles. Analysts note Auburn's recent talent accumulation resembles the quality of the 2019 roster, suggesting the team could achieve around nine wins if it corrects late-game mistakes and improves performance consistency. The 2025 season is crucial for Freeze, who must leverage the available talent and recruiting efforts to win games and solidify his position amid high expectations from fans and analysts.