Paul Finebaum Names Major College Football Coach Whose Record is 'Terrible'

"He's recruited well," Finebaum said. "I see a lot of Auburn fans when I'm in Alabama, and they're behind him. They like him. So, I say all of that in juxtaposition to his record. His record is terrible. He doesn't help himself sometimes. He doesn't need to get to the playoffs, but he needs to show this is now a legitimate program."

There is reason for optimism that Auburn is re-establishing itself as a legitimate program. The Tigers finished with the No. 8-ranked transfer portal class, making several key additions, including quarterback Jackson Arnold from Oklahoma and wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr. from Georgia Tech.

Arnold, a former five-star prospect, was a first-year starter last season at Oklahoma. His season was challenging, as the Sooners were missing their top five wide receivers for much of the year and dealt with a banged-up offensive line. He concluded the season with 1,421 passing yards, 12 touchdowns and three interceptions over 10 games.

Singleton Jr. had an impressive season at Georgia Tech, finishing with 754 receiving yards and three touchdowns. He was also ranked among the top five players in the transfer portal. 

As Finebaum mentioned, Freeze has recruited well also in the high school ranks. He's pulled off back-to-back top 10 classes. For comparison, Auburn had one top 10 class in the five seasons before Freeze arrived. 

Auburn is set to open the season at 8 p.m. ET on Aug. 29, facing the Baylor Bears on the road.