Having already rebuilt his career, Hugh Freeze is trying to do the same thing for Auburn's football program. The coach's return to the Southeastern Conference brought renewed hope to a demoralized fan base, along with some much-needed recruiting and transfer portal success. Freeze, whose successful tenure at Mississippi had ended in scandal, isn't promising instant success. But improvement seems likely after two lackluster seasons, mostly under Bryan Harsin, who was fired last October.
With former Michigan State starter Payton Thorne shockingly transferring to Auburn, he has a decent shot to beat out Robby Ashford to play for Hugh Freeze.
With TJ Finley hitting the transfer portal, it will make things even harder for Hugh Freeze in his first year leading the reeling Auburn football program.