Alabama journalist sends strong message to Lane Kiffin on coaching Auburn football instead of Ole Miss

The Birmingham Lede's Kevin Scarbinsky pitched Lane Kiffin on leaving Ole Miss to become the next Auburn football head coach -- and his pitch centered around the Rebels' inability to make the SEC Championship Game, something the Tigers haven't historically had issues with.

"Not sure who needs to hear this, Lane Kiffin, but you can get to the SECG from Auburn. There is still no evidence you can do so with Ole Miss," Scarbinsky tweeted.

Kiffin coaching Auburn is something that'd have to be kicked down the road a year. The only way Hugh Freeze would be fired is a recruiting exodus of de-commitments, but the only way 5-star George County (MS) QB Deuce Knight would flip is if Kiffin landed him. Knight's exit would likely lead to more losses to the 2025 class.

Freeze's job is likely safe even with a losing record. His job security may even extend to the 2026 season if recruiting holds. Until his record improves, local media will call for him to be replaced, though.

Hugh Freeze may never be seen as the right man for Auburn football's head coaching job ever again

Freeze's hiring brought controversy to the Plains, but few could've expected his first two seasons to be this polarizing; even those who lived through his tumultuous exit from Ole Miss back in 2017. Losses are on thing, but the repeated call-outs of his players has been notable the past few months.

Freeze's masterful recruiting hasn't translated to the standings, but it has translated to the field. Despite their unimpressive record, Auburn has played like a top team all season.

Still, few will look past the losses and see him as the right guy. First impressions are everything, but Freeze has already had several on Tiger fans, and few of them have inspired confidence.