As we approach the final stretch before Early Signing Day, Auburn football fans were hit with some disappointing news this week. In the midst of finalizing their 2025 recruiting class, the Tigers lost one of their key commitments, as 3-star cornerback Dante Core announced he was flipping his pledge from Auburn to Ole Miss.
Core, a standout defensive back, initially committed to Auburn back in May, declaring that his recruitment was “shut down.” The Tigers were riding high with his commitment, especially after he visited Auburn for the Vanderbilt game. However, the winds of change blew during his trip to Oxford for Ole Miss’ thrilling matchup with Georgia. Core reportedly left that visit with a change of heart, ultimately deciding to join head coach Hugh Freeze’s former program.
The flip stings for Auburn, but the Tigers aren’t exactly empty-handed in the defensive backfield. Even with Core’s departure, Auburn still boasts commitments from three 4-star cornerbacks in the 2025 class, keeping their defensive future strong. Despite this setback, the Tigers’ class remains solidly ranked in the top 5 nationally, a testament to Freeze’s ability to recruit at a high level.
Hugh Freeze Talks Play-Calling Strategy Ahead of ULM Matchup
On the field, it’s been a season of frustration for Auburn, as they’ve struggled to put points on the board and close out games. But despite the challenges, head coach Hugh Freeze continues to show optimism, and he remains focused on finding the right formula for his offense.
In a press conference following the Tigers’ second and final bye week, Freeze addressed the team’s offensive struggles and shed some light on how the play-calling duties are distributed within his staff.
“We’ve been working through this all season,” Freeze said, per AL.com. “It’s a combination. Obviously, the game plan is done by all of us sitting in a room as to what we like on base downs, shot plays, third downs and red zone. It’s usually a mixture. Kent [Austin] handles most of the third and longs. [Offensive coordinator Phillip Nix] and I kind of combine on the rest of it, truthfully.”
Despite Auburn’s offensive hiccups this year, Freeze was quick to point out that the Tigers are still near the top in several key statistical categories. Auburn currently ranks in the top 20 in yards per attempt, a metric that Freeze finds encouraging. However, the major issue has been turning those yards into points. Auburn’s offensive execution has left much to be desired, and Freeze admitted that while they are running plays similar to those seen in high-performing offenses, they simply haven’t been able to consistently make the plays needed to score.
“It’s been frustrating. We’ve been in there all morning just watching and last week we got to study a lot of other teams that are going well and are running the same stuff we’re running and are making plays,” Freeze said.
With Auburn set to return to action this Saturday against ULM at Jordan-Hare Stadium, the Tigers will need to clean up their execution if they are to finish the season on a strong note. Freeze’s leadership and hands-on approach with play-calling could be key to unlocking Auburn’s offensive potential as they try to end the year on a high.
Looking Ahead
As the recruiting cycle winds down and the Tigers prepare for their final regular-season stretch, Auburn fans have plenty to keep an eye on. The loss of Dante Core may sting, but the Tigers’ recruiting class remains one of the nation’s best, with plenty of talent already committed. On the field, the hope is that Freeze’s focus on offensive cohesion will begin to pay dividends as the team enters the final few games of the season.
Auburn’s game against ULM on Saturday is an opportunity to get back on track and show some offensive growth. After a challenging first half of the season, Freeze and the Tigers need to finish strong, both in recruiting and on the field. Fans will be watching closely to see if Auburn can execute in all phases and continue building toward a successful 2025 campaign.
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Stay tuned for more updates as Auburn heads into the home stretch of the season, with recruiting news, game previews, and analysis all coming your way right here!
