Hugh Freeze Directs a Strong Message Towards Nick Saban

Since the hiring of Hugh Freeze at Auburn University, many college football fans have been wondering about the future matchups between the former Liberty head coach and Nick Saban.

When asked about his expectations for the upcoming season, Freeze told Sports Illustrated writer, Ross Dellenger that he wants to "beat the crap out of him during the Iron Bowl."

Freeze went on to state that he still considers Saban a friend and the two still communicate.

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Alabama fans need no introduction to Freeze as he coached the Ole Miss Rebels from 2012-16. Freeze led the Rebels to back-to-back wins over the Tide in 2014 and 2015. Saban however, has a 3-2 record over Freeze.

Freeze has been making headlines for a variety of reasons since his controversial hire in late 2022, but former Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn, has shown that he has a lot of confidence in the future of the program with Freeze at the helm. In the interview with Dellenger, Malzahn expressed his opinion on Freeze.

“I think Auburn and Hugh is a really good match. Auburn is an unbelievable place. Hugh is really, really good. I’m excited for both parties. You can win the whole thing there. Unbelievable fan base and support. He’s coming at a great time with NIL and the new facility. Everything came together," said Malzahn. “He’s going to be himself. He’s had success and he’s had success against Alabama. Not a lot of coaches have had success against Alabama. That’s what makes it a great match.”

Spring football practice is in full swing and A-Day is right around the corner, which is leading many Alabama fans to look forward to the 2023 football season with hopes that the Tide can rebound from its two-loss season in 2022. The Iron Bowl is certainly expected to be one of the Tide's biggest games.