Auburn’s ability to attract top-tier recruits reached its lowest point just before the university hired Hugh Freeze as head coach. In his debut season in 2023, Freeze led the Tigers to a Music City Bowl appearance. However, the team regressed in 2024, intensifying the pressure on Freeze heading into his third year.
After starting 2024 with a 2-1 record, Auburn dropped four straight games, including narrow losses to Oklahoma and Missouri. Though they had a shot at bowl eligibility with a win over Alabama, a loss in Tuscaloosa ended their season.
Looking ahead to 2025, Auburn has revamped its quarterback room with elite recruits Jackson Arnold and Deuce Knight. Sophomore wideout Cam Coleman is earning recognition as one of the nation’s most overlooked talents, while defensive standouts Malik Autry and Antonio Coleman bring high expectations.
Freeze understands the stakes going into the new season, and one of Auburn’s most iconic alumni, NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley, has publicly emphasized the need for improvement.
“He’s got to have a good year, it’s that simple,” Barkley told “The Next Round.” “He can’t go 6-5. Whether it’s a good or great year is up for debate, but we need to see real progress.”
Barkley pointed out Auburn’s step backward in 2024, especially as SEC powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee continued to dominate. The Tigers will have chances to make statements this season, including a home game against Georgia on October 11 and the Iron Bowl matchup with Alabama at Jordan-Hare Stadium on November 29.
For Auburn to take the next step, Barkley made his expectations clear: tangible improvement is a must.