Hugh Freeze Sets the Tone at SEC Media Days: “We’ve Closed the Gap”
Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze took the podium at SEC Media Days with a clear message: the Tigers are no longer rebuilding—they’re ready to compete.
Now entering his second full season, Freeze spoke with conviction about the progress Auburn has made and the mindset the program has adopted heading into 2025.
“We’ve closed the gap,” Freeze said. “We’re deeper, we’re stronger, and we have more competition at every position. That’s what you need in this league.”
Last season had its growing pains, but Freeze made it clear that Auburn is moving in the right direction. He credited the offseason work in the weight room, the consistency in leadership, and the impact of the transfer portal and recruiting. Most importantly, he emphasized belief—both from his players and from himself.
“You’ve got to believe you belong in the same conversation with the best in the country,” Freeze said. “And I think our players are starting to believe that.”
One of the most talked-about points was his confidence in the team’s culture. Freeze stressed that Auburn’s locker room is more unified than it’s been in years, and that accountability, leadership, and effort are no longer negotiable.
“I’m not afraid to say we want to contend,” Freeze said. “The College Football Playoff is the goal. Period.”
That ambition is backed by what Freeze calls his “first true roster”—a team largely built through his own recruiting and transfer decisions. He believes the foundation is in place, and the time for excuses is over.
Beyond football, Freeze touched on the impact of NIL and his pride in the way players like Keldric Faulk have embraced leadership and service. In addition to the way Auburn players have handled off-field responsibilities, he praised the character within the program.
Freeze finished with a nod to the fans and the importance of momentum.
“There’s nothing like Jordan-Hare at full throttle,” he said. “If we do our part, I know the Auburn Family will do theirs.”
As SEC Media Days wrap, one thing is clear: Hugh Freeze isn’t just building. He’s aiming to win—and he’s not afraid to say it out loud.
