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AJ McCarron Suspects Nick Saban Is Mad at Him for His Hugh Freeze Remarks

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 23, 2025 1:44 PM ET

Did AJ McCarron just land in Nick Saban’s doghouse?

On the latest episode of "The Dynasty" podcast, McCarron raised eyebrows when he casually mentioned he missed a phone call from his former Alabama coach and admitted he’s not sure if Saban is happy with him at the moment.

Co-host and former Alabama running back Trent Richardson didn’t hesitate to stir the pot, jokingly asking McCarron if he was in trouble. McCarron’s response? A little nervous, a little honest.

“I haven’t done anything … unless he’s, which I doubt, mad about the Hugh Freeze [comments],” McCarron said.

That offhand remark referred to a recent moment when McCarron publicly criticized Auburn coach Hugh Freeze.

McCarron had ripped into Freeze for Auburn’s ongoing recruiting woes and lack of direction heading into the 2025 season. While McCarron insisted his criticism wasn’t personal, the comments definitely made waves, especially considering the always-heated Alabama-Auburn rivalry.

Saban, known for mentoring many current and former players, might have taken issue with McCarron going after a fellow SEC coach, even one at a rival program. While McCarron didn’t confirm Saban’s reason for calling, his suggestion implies he knows his words carry weight, especially when they involve coaches under scrutiny.

Freeze has come under fire in recent months for Auburn’s recruiting misses and an underwhelming on-field product in 2024.

McCarron, who won two national championships under Saban and remains a prominent Alabama voice, didn’t shy away from calling out those issues. But whether that honesty has put him in Saban’s crosshairs remains to be seen.

For now, the missed call hangs in the air, and SEC fans are left wondering what kind of follow-up conversation might be coming next.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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