Hugh Freeze was brought to Auburn with one primary mission: to win. But after the Tigers’ disheartening 21-14 loss to Cal, that mission is now facing its first major test. The loss, which came against a team Auburn should have been able to handle, has left many fans questioning whether Freeze can truly be the coach to restore the program’s glory.
Payton Thorne, the Tigers’ starting quarterback, has borne the brunt of much of the criticism. His inconsistent play has sparked calls for him to be benched, as fans and analysts alike question whether there is anyone waiting in the wings who could provide a much-needed spark. Thorne’s performance against Cal was, in a word, underwhelming. Missed opportunities, errant throws, and an overall lack of rhythm left Auburn’s offense sputtering.
At this point, many are wondering if it’s time for Freeze to make a change under center. Thorne’s struggles have become too glaring to ignore, and the notion that any backup quarterback could offer more upside is gaining traction. Thorne’s inability to effectively lead the offense against a Cal team that isn’t considered a powerhouse raises serious doubts about his future as Auburn’s starting quarterback.
Freeze’s predicament is compounded by the fact that the loss to Cal isn’t just about Thorne’s shortcomings — it’s about a broader issue of identity and execution. Auburn, a program with a proud football tradition, should be winning games like this. Cal, while a respectable opponent, does not have the talent or depth that Auburn boasts. Yet, the Tigers looked unprepared, unable to take advantage of opportunities, and lacking in the fundamentals that win football games.
This brings us back to Freeze, whose arrival at Auburn came with high expectations. His reputation as an offensive guru, with a track record of winning big games, gave fans hope that he could turn the program around. But college football is unforgiving, and trust is not freely given — it must be earned. Winning is the currency of that trust, and so far, Freeze hasn’t delivered when it matters.
To build that trust, Freeze must start by winning the games he’s supposed to win. The Cal loss underscores a painful truth: Auburn isn’t where it needs to be, and Freeze hasn’t yet proven he can get them there. The road to redemption won’t be easy, but it begins with getting the basics right, including potentially making a tough decision at quarterback.
Auburn fans are a passionate and loyal bunch, but they expect results. Freeze has to understand that he’s on borrowed time. His job is to win, and if he can’t deliver — particularly in games where Auburn is favored — his tenure could be short-lived. As the Tigers look ahead to their next opponent, Freeze is facing a crucial moment. Will he stick with Thorne, hoping for improvement, or will he give someone else a shot? And most importantly, can he begin to win over Auburn’s fanbase by winning on the field?
Time will tell, but one thing is clear: Hugh Freeze’s honeymoon period is over, and the hard work of earning Auburn’s trust begins now.
