Auburn Fires Coach Hugh Freeze After Offensive Struggles, SEC Losses

Auburn University has fired head football coach Hugh Freeze after a disappointing tenure marked by offensive struggles and close losses, culminating in a 10-3 defeat to Kentucky. Athletic Director John Cohen emphasized that being "close" was insufficient for Auburn's standards, citing Freeze's failure to develop a high-functioning offense despite having talented players and a strong defense under coordinator DJ Durkin. Freeze finished with a 15-19 overall record and 6-16 in SEC play, with Auburn's offense ranking near the bottom nationally in key statistics this season. The decision followed mounting fan frustration and chants for Freeze's dismissal during recent games. Defensive coordinator DJ Durkin will take over as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Auburn has already begun searching for Freeze's replacement, with speculation around potential candidates including Lane Kiffin, James Franklin, Jimbo Fisher, and John Gruden.