Auburn football is heading into a pivotal 2025 season with Hugh Freeze entering his third year as head coach. After a disappointing 2024 campaign that saw the Tigers miss out on a bowl game, there’s a clear sense of urgency around the program to turn things around.
The season kicks off with a tough test on the road in Waco against Baylor, a solid Big 12 opponent that will give Freeze and his team an early measuring stick. The home opener against Ball State on Sept. 6 should offer a chance to build some momentum.
However, spring ball hasn’t been all smooth sailing. During Auburn’s A-Day spring game, the program received a blow with the news that safety Terrance Love is entering the transfer portal. While Love didn’t log major playing time in his first two seasons—just 22 games, 7 tackles, and 1 pass deflection—he was seen as a potential breakout contributor in 2025, especially considering his versatility and strong high school résumé at Langston Hughes, where he helped secure a GHSA 6A state championship.
Love isn’t the only departure. Auburn has seen a notable amount of roster churn this offseason, with OT Percy Lewis, S Caleb Wooden, and QB Hank Brown also moving on. On the flip side, there have been some important additions, none bigger than former Oklahoma QB Jackson Arnold, who brings pedigree and playmaking potential to the Plains.
Auburn’s 2025 season will hinge on Freeze’s ability to stabilize the roster, get key newcomers like Arnold integrated quickly, and generate consistent offensive production—an area that plagued them last year. The loss of depth in the secondary with Love’s departure adds some concern, but the portal remains an option to patch those holes.
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