Paul Finebaum. © Shanna Lockwood-Imagn Images

Paul Finebaum Names Prominent SEC Coach That Isn't In 'That Dire of Shape'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Mar 9, 2025 5:00 PM ET

The 2025 college football season could be significant for several coaches, as it may be their last if things don't improve.

One coach who might be on the hot seat is Auburn Tigers head coach Hugh Freeze. He has been with Auburn for two seasons, both of which ended with losing records. Another losing season could spell the end for Freeze, especially considering that his predecessor, Bryan Harsin, was fired during his second season with a 9-12 record.

Recently, ESPN released its hot seat tiers for coaches, placing Freeze in the "We want this to work" category. However, SEC Network analyst Paul Finebaum disagrees with the notion that Freeze is in danger of losing his job. On "The Paul Finebaum Show," the SEC Network analyst was asked if UNLV Rebels head coach Dan Mullen could eventually replace Freeze. Finebaum dismissed that idea.

"I don't think Hugh Freeze is really in that dire of shape," Finebaum said. "He's well liked by people at Auburn. He has support where it really matters. It's pretty underwhelming and I think a lot of mistakes have been made, but Auburn has gone out there and brought him a lot of really good players. Many people believe that Auburn will bounce back."

Finebaum expressed doubts about Mullen's popularity, noting that many people may not like him. Although Finebaum did not provide specific reasons for this sentiment, he concluded that he would be surprised to see Mullen return to the SEC, mentioning that Mullen has "burned a lot of bridges."

Mullen's entire head coaching career took place in the SEC until he accepted the UNLV job this offseason. He coached for nine seasons at Mississippi State and four seasons at Florida, finishing with a record of 103-61 over his 13 seasons. He led the Gators to their most recent two seasons with 10 or more wins in 2018 and 2019, during which they secured victories in the Peach Bowl and Orange Bowl and finished in the top seven of the final AP poll.

Finebaum does not believe Freeze is in danger of losing his job, despite a difficult start to his tenure. He also does not foresee Mullen being a candidate for replacement.

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

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