Hired After Nationwide Search

Hugh Freeze Named Head Football Coach at Auburn

Hired After Nationwide Search

Auburn University has announced the hiring of Hugh Freeze as its 31st head football coach, effective immediately. Freeze, who most recently served as head coach at Liberty University, replaces Bryan Harsin, who was fired in October after a disappointing start to the 2022 season.

Freeze, 53, has a successful track record as a head coach at both the collegiate and professional levels. He led Ole Miss to three bowl games in four seasons from 2012 to 2016, including a Sugar Bowl win in 2016. He also had a brief stint as the offensive coordinator for the NFL's Oakland Raiders in 2017.

Matt Luke to Serve as Interim Head Coach

Unexpected Resignation

Freeze's hiring comes just weeks after Ole Miss announced that he had resigned as head coach effective immediately due to "personal misconduct." Matt Luke, who has been serving as the Rebels' offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.

Freeze's sudden departure from Ole Miss raised eyebrows and led to widespread speculation about the future of the program. However, Auburn's announcement of his hiring as head coach provides some clarity and stability for both schools.

Conclusion

Hugh Freeze's hiring as Auburn's head football coach is a significant development that could have major implications for the future of the SEC. Freeze is a proven winner with a track record of success on the field. His arrival in Auburn is likely to generate excitement and optimism among the Tigers' fan base and could make the program a contender in the SEC West.