Auburn University has officially terminated the contract of head coach Hugh Freeze, marking a significant shift in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) coaching landscape. Freeze became the fourth SEC head coach to be dismissed in recent weeks, joining Sam Pittman from Arkansas, Billy Napier from Florida, and Brian Kelly from LSU.
The decision to part ways with Freeze came swiftly after a disheartening 10–3 loss at home to Kentucky on November 5, 2023. This defeat dropped Auburn’s record to 4–6 for the season, a performance that has left fans and officials frustrated. D.J. Durkin, the defensive coordinator, has been appointed as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
Under Freeze’s leadership, Auburn compiled a disappointing overall record of 15–19, with a mere 6–16 in SEC play. As part of the termination, Freeze’s buyout is projected to be approximately $15.8 million, stemming from the six-year contract he signed when he took the position in late 2022.
Despite hopes for a turnaround season, Freeze’s tenure deteriorated into a series of frustrating losses. The Tigers have suffered 14 defeats in their last 18 games against Power Five opponents. Particularly concerning is the team’s offensive performance, which has ranked among the worst in the conference. In a recent game against Texas A&M, Auburn managed only 177 total yards, while they recorded just 40 yards in the second half against Georgia. The loss to Kentucky was capped off by a mere three points scored.
“I wish I could ask for patience, but that’s not something people want to give in this day and time — and I understand that,” Freeze stated following the Kentucky defeat, as chants of “Fire Hugh” echoed through Jordan-Hare Stadium. He added, “I just know we’re so dang close, and if we had a few things go our way earlier in the year, I think we’re looking at a whole different deal.”
Once celebrated as one of the most intimidating venues in college football, Jordan-Hare Stadium has lost its luster under Freeze. The team’s home record during his tenure stands at 7–11 against FBS opponents, with notable defeats against teams such as New Mexico State, Cal, Arkansas, Vanderbilt, and Kentucky.
As Auburn prepares for the remainder of the season under Durkin, the university’s athletic department faces the challenge of finding a new leader capable of revitalizing the football program and restoring its competitive edge within the SEC.
