Paul Finebaum sends dramatic message on Auburn football's win over Kentucky

Paul Finebaum rode the emotional high every Auburn football fan has also felt since defeating Kentucky, 24-10 on a 24-point run, and restoring faith in a late-season run to a bowl game. This season has felt lost at times, but Finebaum now thinks the Tigers could figure out a few more wins with their rebuilt momentum.

“It felt like that win (over Kentucky) saved the season because losing to a really down Kentucky team would have just finished everything off,” Finebaum said (h/t Saturday Down South). “Right now, you can look at the schedule and find wins if you want, you can be pessimistic if you want. But there’s nothing like just ending a losing streak and ending what felt like a hopeless feeling. And I think that’s really significant.

“Everyone’s aware of what Kentucky has done, and that’s not really the point. The fact you can go on the road, look like a real football team and not give games away is significant. Now you can say we did this, we did that, we almost did that, and if the turnovers stop then maybe the season can still have some momentum. And that’s really what you’re talking about.”

Hugh Freeze made Auburn football fans feel good in Week 9

Overcoming illness humanized Hugh Freeze in a way the college football-viewing world hasn't seen since his hospital bed performance as Liberty's head coach against Syracuse in 2019. The Flames were defeated that night. Freeze's Tigers persisted and delivered the people of the Plains a much-needed malaise-busting win.

Most importantly, Freeze made the fanbase feel good. It's been a rough season for the program amidst a polarizing time in the world. The distraction was much-needed. And the momentum could be too.

This thing isn't lost. In Jarquez Hunter Freeze must trust. If he does, and Payton Thorne could end his career on a high note, 2024 will be a step forward instead of the step back it looked like it'd be when AU was down 10-0 during the first quarter in Lexington.