Quarterback Jackson Arnold’s decision to transfer to Auburn from Oklahoma is seen as a chance for a fresh start, and it’s crucial for the Tigers’ coaching staff, especially head coach Hugh Freeze, to make this move work. Arnold’s natural athleticism is not in question, but his struggles at Oklahoma raise the larger concern of why he didn’t succeed with the Sooners. Now at Auburn, Freeze faces the challenge of making adjustments to his offensive scheme to suit Arnold’s strengths, especially as he heads into a pivotal season for his own coaching future.
Freeze, who has not always been known for being particularly patient with his quarterbacks, will need to be more flexible with Arnold if things are going to work out. Early signs suggest that Freeze is willing to tailor his approach to fit Arnold’s skill set, recognizing the quarterback’s potential. Freeze praised Arnold’s abilities, highlighting his high school accolades and the fundamentals he brings to the position, which seem to align well with Auburn’s needs.
Arnold’s fresh start at Auburn offers him a chance to leave behind his negative experiences at Oklahoma. With a talented group of wide receivers at Auburn, the opportunity to throw downfield is a significant one, and Freeze will need to capitalize on this. The Tigers’ wide receivers, despite their potential, didn’t perform to their fullest last season, but much of the blame was placed on the struggles of quarterbacks like Payton Thorne and Hank Brown, rather than the receivers themselves.
Freeze himself was at the center of the quarterback issues last season. However, he remains optimistic, noting that his receivers have already noticed the difference in the way Arnold delivers the ball. Freeze believes Arnold’s style of play will have a positive impact not only on the quarterbacks but on the entire offense, helping to bring out the best in the team’s skill players.
The stakes are incredibly high for Freeze and Auburn heading into the new season. If Freeze can develop Arnold into a successful quarterback and re-establish Auburn as a contender in the SEC and on the national stage, he may win over skeptical fans and secure his job moving forward. With talented players like 5-star recruit Deuce Knight now in the quarterback room, Auburn’s success hinges on Freeze’s ability to turn things around.
