One of the best offensive coaches in the SEC in recent memory could be on his way back to the conference as soon as next season.

That’s the thinking of SEC Network host Paul Finebaum, who explained on his weekly visit with Birmingham-based WJOX 94.5 FM program “The Roundtable” that former Ole Miss coach Hugh Freeze would be at Auburn next year.

“I believe the biggest issue for Hugh Freeze had to do with the sanctions,” Finebaum said. “Now that the sanction train has passed, I think it will be much easier. … I think he’s very sincere about the mistakes he has made.”

The Ole Miss-NCAA issue ended last week, as the school announced the NCAA has made its final decision on the school’s appeal following the 2018 bowl ban and recruiting restrictions. The 2018 bowl ban remains, but the ban on unofficial visits to campus for prospects has been removed.

Finebaum even called it one of the easiest predictions to make.

“The first call he will get will be by Gus Malzahn,” Finebaum said. “They are very close friends. Hugh Freeze spent time down there about six weeks ago. He spent the day with Gus Malzahn. I don’t know what else he will get in terms of offers, but he will definitely get an offer from Gus Malzahn. And right now I’d bet … he’ll very likely consider that seriously.

“I think he’ll be there next year.”

Freeze admitted earlier this year that he’s spent time as a consultant with several schools, though he declined to name them. Freeze, who resigned as the Ole Miss head coach before the 2017 season, is set to be the offensive coordinator for the Arizona franchise next spring of the new Alliance of American Football league.

Auburn’s offense has struggled this season, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to most if offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey left for another job like Rhett Lashlee did for UConn following the 2016 season.