Top 7 Candidates to Replace Hugh Freeze at Auburn
Auburn University has officially terminated the contract of head coach Hugh Freeze following a disappointing 10-3 loss to Kentucky. The decision, announced on a Sunday, comes amidst chants for his dismissal from fans at Jordan-Hare Stadium. During his three-year tenure, Freeze amassed a record of 15-19, including a 6-16 mark in SEC play and just one appearance in a bowl game. His termination also involves a staggering buyout of $15.8 million, contributing to a record total of coaching buyouts this season. With Freeze’s departure, Auburn becomes the thirteenth program to dismiss a coach this season and the fourth from the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
The Tigers are now in search of their third head coach since the firing of Gus Malzahn at the end of the 2020 season. Auburn has not achieved a 10-win season since 2017, highlighting the volatility of the coaching position.
Top 7 Candidates to Replace Hugh Freeze at Auburn
Auburn is contemplating several potential replacements. Here are the top candidates emerging in the speculation surrounding the program’s future:
1. Jon Sumrall (Troy)
- Current Position: Head Coach at Troy
- Background: Former assistant at Ole Miss and Kentucky
- Achievements: Led Troy to consecutive Sun Belt titles, recognized for strong defensive performance
2. James Franklin (Formerly at Penn State)
- Experience: Over 120 career wins
- Previous Record: Successful stints at Penn State; placed the team near national title contention
- Notable History: Has a tendency to beat Auburn’s previous coaches, leading to their dismissals
3. Alex Golesh (USF)
- Current Position: Head Coach at USF
- Record: Significant improvement at USF, leading to bowl appearances
- Offensive Expertise: Former offensive coordinator at Tennessee, known for high-scoring offenses
4. Dan Mullen (UNLV)
- Background: Former offensive coordinator at Florida and head coach at Mississippi State
- Recent Performance: Leading UNLV with potential playoff implications
- Connection: Strong ties to Auburn athletic director John Cohen
5. Brent Key (Georgia Tech)
- Current Position: Head Coach at Georgia Tech
- Achievements: Transformed Georgia Tech into a competitive program
- Potential Fit: Focused and straightforward coaching style contrasts with Freeze’s approach
6. Glenn Schumann (Georgia)
- Current Position: Co-Defensive Coordinator at Georgia
- Experience: Worked under Kirby Smart, contributing to national title-winning defenses
- Potential: Could bring a successful defensive-oriented perspective to Auburn
7. Lane Kiffin (Ole Miss)
- Background: Previously considered for Auburn position in 2022
- Current Status: Leading a competitive Ole Miss team
- Consideration: Auburn may seek renewed interest in his coaching ability
Auburn’s leadership must act decisively as they navigate this coaching transition, aiming to restore the program to prominence in the SEC. The upcoming weeks will be pivotal in determining the next steps for the Tigers.
