COLUMN: Auburn Fans Need to Shift Blame from Refs to Coaching

AUBURN, Ala. — Auburn fans, it’s time to stop blaming the refs for the Oklahoma, Georgia, and Missouri losses. Yes, officiating errors occurred, but let’s be real: the bigger issue is not the zebras; it’s the man in charge of the Tigers’ sideline—Hugh Freeze.

The Freeze Frame: A Picture of Mediocrity

Since taking over in 2023, Freeze has compiled a 14–18 record at Auburn, including a dismal 1–12 mark against ranked opponents. In his third season, the Tigers are 3–4, with four consecutive SEC losses. This includes a gut-wrenching 23–17 double-overtime defeat to Missouri, a game where Auburn’s offense sputtered and penalties stalled crucial drives.

Freeze’s tenure has been marked by a lack of discipline and preparation. After the Oklahoma loss, he admitted his team was “undisciplined” and made “bad decisions,” putting the offense in bad positions. Against Georgia, despite a strong start, Auburn faltered, and Freeze acknowledged the team’s inability to “finish” games. These aren’t isolated incidents; they are recurring themes under his leadership.

The Excuse Factory

Freeze’s post-game comments often resemble a broken record of excuses. Instead of taking responsibility, he deflects blame. After the Georgia game, he suggested Auburn “probably should have stayed with more” in-game adjustments, implying the loss was due to missed opportunities rather than coaching shortcomings. This pattern of excuse-making has become all too familiar and is wearing thin with fans.

Repeating History

Auburn fans deserve better. They’ve shown unwavering loyalty, filling Jordan-Hare Stadium week after week, hoping for a turnaround. But under Freeze, the team has regressed. His history at Ole Miss, where he was fired for cause after a scandal involving calls to an escort service, raises red flags about his character and judgment. Bringing him to Auburn was a gamble that has yet to pay off.

The Call for Change

Athletic Director John Cohen must act. The current trajectory is unsustainable, and the longer Freeze remains, the more damage is done to Auburn’s football program. It’s time for a change. Auburn needs a coach who can instill discipline, prepare the team adequately, and lead with integrity.

Auburn fans, your loyalty deserves better than a coach who makes excuses and fails to deliver results. It’s time for a new direction, one that honors the rich tradition of Auburn football and restores pride to the program.

In the end, it’s not about blaming officials or bad luck. It’s about accountability. Hugh Freeze has had his chance. It’s time for Auburn to move on and find a leader who can bring back the winning culture the Tigers so desperately need.

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Jackson Fryburger