Auburn fans react to Hugh Freeze let go as football head coach

AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL) — Auburn University football fans are once again adjusting to major change after the program officially announced the departure of head coach Hugh Freeze.

The decision comes after Auburn’s fifth loss against an SEC opponent this season.

Freeze, who was in his third year with the Tigers, signed a six-year contract in 2022 but will leave the program early.

Freeze’s tenure at Auburn ends with a 15–19 overall record, including a 6–16 mark in SEC play.

Despite struggles on the field, his recruiting classes brought in key talent such as local standouts Cam Coleman and Omar Mabson — players who may now face uncertainty under new leadership.

Defensive coordinator D.J. Durkin will serve as interim head coach while the university begins its search for a permanent replacement.

At Toomer’s Corner, Auburn fans shared mixed emotions about the change.

“It’s been pretty bad. I basically go into every game knowing that we’re going to lose,” said Jessie Henry, an Auburn fan.

“This is the most talent Auburn’s ever had,” said Chandler Weaver. “If we let that go to waste, it’ll be really sad.”

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“I think the coaching change should have happened two years ago,” said Valerie Epps. “I’m excited for a new season and hope they hire someone who can really bring the game back.”

“It’s upsetting, especially when you look at the end of the night and see the score.” “I didn’t think they’d actually do it,” said Holland Hill. “It needed to happen. I think we’ll be better off — hopefully it brings a lot of good change to the program.”

Auburn University officials held a news conference Monday afternoon to introduce Durkin as the interim head coach.

FULL COVERAGE OF DURKIN INTRODUCED AS INTERIM HEAD COACH WITH LIVE PRESSER