Hugh Freeze admits he feels Auburn still plays ‘not to lose’

Hugh Freeze met with reporters Monday afternoon to discuss Auburn’s most recent loss to Missouri. The Tigers saw plenty of opportunity slip right through their fingers, culminating in a 21-17 loss.

Auburn has now lost 4 straight and 5 of their last 6. They’ve yet to beat a power conference program despite 4 of their losses coming by 10 points or less.

Freeze told reporters that it makes him physically ill to not be able to cross the finish line as the Tigers have struggled to do all season. Part of that, he believes, is players and coaches not playing and coaching to win. Instead, they’re coaching “not to lose.”

Hugh Freeze said Monday morning that he feels like the team is still playing (and the coaches are still coaching) “not to lose” instead of “man, let’s play to win”.

What do you think the mentality should be as things stand now? pic.twitter.com/PFPXR9Ibwa

— Auburn Tigers | AL.com (@aldotcomTigers) October 21, 2024

Sometimes it really comes down to “who wants it more,” which is hardly ever from the conservative team. But being aggressive requires confidence, and that’s on the head coach to instill in his program.

Auburn is back in action this Saturday against a Kentucky team that is struggling almost as much as the Tigers are. Both teams have yet to win in October and sit under .500 heading into the back half of the schedule.

Kickoff is set for 7:45 p.m. on SEC Network.

Ethan Stone

Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.