Potential head coaching candidates to replace Hugh Freeze with at Auburn
By Gerald Ng
With Auburn’s ongoing struggles under Hugh Freeze, speculation has mounted regarding the possibility of a coaching change. The Tigers' 2024 season has been marred by offensive inefficiency, inconsistency, and growing dissatisfaction from fans.
If Auburn opts to part ways with Freeze, several strong candidates are being discussed as potential replacements.
Here’s a look at some potential head coaching candidates who could lead the Tigers in a new direction.
Deion Sanders
Deion Sanders has made waves in college football with his impressive turnaround at Colorado, creating an energized and competitive program.
Sanders is a charismatic leader with a proven ability to attract top talent, and his high-profile approach could revitalize Auburn’s program and bring excitement to the fan base. “Coach Prime” has deep SEC roots, making Auburn a possible destination if he decides to return to the Deep South. Remember, his alma mater, as he says, is Talladega College.
His leadership and dynamic recruiting could be just what Auburn needs.
Rhett Lashlee
Rhett Lashlee, a former Auburn offensive coordinator, has found success as the head coach at SMU, where he’s known for his high-powered, up-tempo offensive schemes. Lashlee’s familiarity with Auburn and his success with SMU’s offense make him a compelling choice.
Having guided SMU to competitive standings in their debut ACC season, Lashlee understands the SEC environment and the unique pressures of coaching at Auburn, making him a viable option for a program looking to boost its offense.
Shane Beamer
Shane Beamer has turned South Carolina into a competitive SEC program, excelling in recruiting and player relationships. His player-focused coaching style and energy would align well with Auburn’s objectives, helping to strengthen team morale and attract talent.
Known for his SEC experience and an optimistic approach to coaching, Beamer could be a strong fit for Auburn as they look to rebuild a sustainable, player-driven program.
Auburn’s high expectations and competitive landscape could appeal to Beamer’s ambitions within the SEC.
Sean Lewis
Sean Lewis has established a reputation as a highly innovative offensive mind, known for leading fast-paced, high-scoring offenses. After a successful stint at Kent State, he moved to Colorado as an offensive coordinator before taking over as head coach at San Diego State.
Lewis’s offensive creativity and success in elevating programs could align well with Auburn’s needs, especially as the Tigers look to revitalize their offense and bring more scoring potential.
Jamey Chadwell
Jamey Chadwell has garnered attention for his offensive creativity and ability to elevate programs with limited resources, first at Coastal Carolina and now at Liberty.
Chadwell’s adaptable approach and strong player development make him an intriguing option for Auburn. His success at Liberty and reputation as a rising coaching star could align with Auburn’s need for offensive consistency and innovative play-calling.
Chadwell’s track record of building successful teams could be key to Auburn’s long-term success.
Conclusion: The next Tigers head coach is a critical decision for Auburn’s future
If Auburn decides to move on from Hugh Freeze, they have a range of talented coaches to consider. With candidates like Sanders and Lashlee, Auburn could find the leadership necessary to return to the top of the SEC.
Each potential candidate brings unique strengths that could help Auburn re-establish itself as a national contender, giving fans and the program renewed hope for the future.