Nick Saban believes in Auburn, Hugh Freeze: “One of the teams with the biggest performance improvements in the SEC”

Audience forecast for Auburn vs. California

Much to the dismay of Alabama Fans, Nick Saban praised the Auburn Tigers during the Saturday edition of ESPN College Game Day.

When the Tigers were ready to play Cal In Week 2, after an impressive 73-3 win in Week 1, Saban took some time to explain why he believes Hugo Freeze and Auburn can cause a stir as one of the surprise teams in the SEC.

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“A lot of people in Alabama aren't going to like what I'm saying here, but I think Hugh Freeze is going to do a great job at Auburn. I think they're going to be one of the biggest improvement teams in the SEC,” Saban said.DJ Durkin is a great addition to their defensive coordinator.

“I really believe they're going to have a big impact, especially with the explosive players they've added to their offense. They're going to be someone everyone has to reckon with.”

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That's high praise from one of the greatest coaches in college football history. Elsewhere on College Game DayKirk Herbstreit responded with his own praise for the Tigers, especially for their quarterback in Payton Thorne.

“I think people have Payton Thorne last year, came over from State of Michiganand they were lukewarm towards him,” added Herbstreit. “I'm with you, you bet – the offense will now depend on what Hugh Freeze can do as a playmaker. They know his abilities better than anyone else. He has an experienced quarterback in Payton Thornewho can run just enough in this offensive, like a Bo Wallace Type of guy, and then Cam Colemanthe true freshmen, the group of receivers you're talking about, consists of four guys.

“I think Auburn is a surprise team in the entire SEC, and I think Payton Thorne has the chance to have a big year this year.”

It remains to be seen if Auburn can live up to expectations in 2024, but Nick Saban and Kirk Herbstreit expect big things from the Tigers this season.