Finebaum takes a shot at Coach Freeze!
Paul Finebaum Breaks Down How Hugh Freeze Could Miss Massive Alabama Opportunity originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Alabama Crimson Tide is going through a critical time in its history. The 133-year-old program has faced such situations before as well, where a legendary head coach left a vacuum, and it was unclear whether the successor would succeed.
Nick Saban's exit has given them a big hit, and even though coach Kalen DeBoer looks like a solid HC, it is difficult to ascertain yet if he'll be able to weather the storm, if one comes at all.
Paul Finebaum has been around the Crimson Tide for decades, covering the different eras of the team. On Tuesday, during The Paul Finebaum Show, he was asked about similarities between former Crimson Tide coach Bear Bryant and Saban's exit and the aftermath.
Finebaum explained the similarities and how there were some, but more importantly, he issued remarks for Hugh Freeze, who can make the best out of this opportunity in front of him.
After Bear Bryant's exit, Ray Perkins took up the head coaching role for the Crimson Tide, and Finebaum recalls, “His first season was okay, but in Ray Perkins' second season, he did the unthinkable. He had a losing season for the first time in 25 years. And let me assure you, the heat came raining down on him."
The ESPN Radio Host added, "But the other thing that I want to point out, and this is why, if Hugh Freeze does not take advantage of it, it will be the biggest lost opportunity ever, is that Auburn had a young coach by the name of Pat Dye. And he took advantage of it, and poured it on and won four SEC Championships, while Alabama went through coaches like you go through fertilizer in planting season."
Auburn Tigers and Hugh Freeze are seen as one of the most developed teams going into this year. They have a solid quarterback, they've recruited well, and now it's just up to them to get on the field and reward the fanbase for its patience.
Related: Paul Finebaum Reveals 'Concern' for Historic College Football Program
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 30, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
