Former Auburn head coach [autotag]Gus Malzahn[/autotag] and current Auburn head coach [autotag]Hugh Freeze[/autotag] share similar coaching backgrounds. Both made it big in the high school ranks before ultimately becoming successful at the highest level of college football.
So it is easy to see why both coaches have become great friends and show support to one another.
In a recent interview with Ross Dellenger of Sports Illustrated, Malzahn has confidence that Freeze will succeed at Auburn by saying that Freeze and Auburn are a good pair.
“I think Auburn and Hugh is a really good match. Auburn is an unbelievable place. Hugh is really, really good. I’m excited for both parties. You can win the whole thing there. Unbelievable fan base and support. He’s coming at a great time with NIL and the new facility. Everything came together.”
Malzahn was also asked to give his opinion on Freeze’s past which led to his resignation from Ole Miss following the 2016 season. Malzahn says that “everyone makes mistakes,” and that he hopes Auburn fans will give him a chance. Malzahn also feels that Freeze will sway more Auburn fans to join his side in one particular aspect.
“He’s going to be himself. He’s had success and he’s had success against Alabama. Not a lot of coaches have had success against Alabama. That’s what makes it a great match.”
Malzahn won 68 games during his eight-year span at Auburn from 2013-20. His tenure would see Auburn appear in the BCS National Championship in 2013, and in two SEC Championship games, winning the conference crown in 2013. He was ultimately relieved of his duties following the 2020 season, which made way for [autotag]Bryan Harsin[/autotag] to take the job. Harsin’s era was shortlived as he posted a 9-12 record in just 21 games coached. Freeze now holds the title of the head football coach at Auburn, boasting an 83-43 record between stops at Arkansas State, Ole Miss, and Liberty.
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