Hugh Freeze’s Job Security at Auburn Hinges on Jackson Arnold’s Success
Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze could find himself in a difficult position if transfer quarterback Jackson Arnold doesn’t deliver in 2025. According to predictions, Freeze may be on the proverbial “hot seat” if Arnold fails to turn things around for the Tigers after a rocky stint at Oklahoma.
Arnold entered the college football scene as a highly touted five-star recruit, expected to lead the Oklahoma Sooners for multiple seasons. However, his journey took an unexpected turn in 2023 when he lost the starting job to Michael Hawkins Jr. before reclaiming it later in the season. By then, the damage was done, and Arnold opted for a fresh start at Auburn, hoping to revitalize his career under Freeze.
Now, the pressure is on. Arnold isn’t just another transfer—he’s being looked at as the potential savior for a Tigers program in need of stability at quarterback. If he struggles to perform, it could spell serious trouble for Freeze, whose tenure at Auburn is already under scrutiny. With the Tigers striving to compete in a stacked SEC, their 2025 campaign will be crucial in determining the direction of the program and Freeze’s future.
Fortunately for Arnold, Auburn has surrounded him with a deep pool of receiving talent, giving him the weapons necessary to succeed. But talent alone won’t be enough—he’ll need to prove he can command the offense and lead Auburn back to relevance. If he falters, the pressure on Freeze will only intensify, making this upcoming season a defining moment for both the quarterback and his head coach.