ESPN's Paul Finebaum Sets Reasonable Expectations for Auburn Coach Hugh Freeze 2025 Season

ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum expresses cautious optimism for Auburn Tigers head coach Hugh Freeze's 2025 season despite his past struggles, suggesting an 8-4 record as a reasonable and achievable goal. Finebaum notes that Freeze has ample support from the administration and necessary resources, emphasizing the need for Freeze to be more supportive of quarterback Jackson Arnold, who is seen as a key player for Auburn’s offense. Arnold, a transfer from Oklahoma, has shown promising progress in practice, and Freeze aims to keep the game plan straightforward to maximize the quarterback's strengths. Auburn faces a challenging schedule with multiple ranked opponents, yet the team returns 11 starters and has secured a strong transfer class, increasing hopes for improvement. While Finebaum does not foresee a playoff appearance, he highlights that winning rivalry games against Georgia and Alabama could buy Freeze more patience from fans. Meanwhile, Finebaum ranks Georgia’s head coach Kirby Smart as the top active college coach, praising his consistent success and multiple national championships, contrasting Auburn's more uncertain outlook under Freeze.