As Auburn navigates the 2024 season under head coach Hugh Freeze, the team finds itself at a critical juncture. With a disappointing 2-4 record at the halfway mark, expectations that once soared have significantly diminished. The second half of the season promises to be even more challenging, with games against formidable opponents and the looming threat of finishing with a losing record.

Auburn’s struggles this year highlight the difficulties Freeze faces in his second season. After an encouraging first year, where the team achieved bowl eligibility, many anticipated a step forward. Instead, the Tigers have stumbled, and the pressure is mounting. The upcoming games against Missouri and Kentucky are pivotal; splitting these contests would improve their record to 3-5, but a sweep is unlikely, and the prospect of entering the Vanderbilt game with six losses is daunting.

Vanderbilt, despite their struggles historically, has shown they can pull off upsets, notably their win over Alabama this season. Their quarterback, Diego Pavia, previously led New Mexico State to victory against Auburn last year, adding an element of unpredictability to this matchup. Auburn cannot afford to underestimate any opponent if they hope to recover from their current predicament.

Looking further down the schedule, a home game against Louisiana-Monroe appears to be the only guaranteed win for the Tigers. Following that, Texas A&M looms large. The Aggies have displayed a mixed bag of performances, oscillating between dominant wins and disheartening losses. If the vulnerable A&M shows up, Auburn may have a chance to capitalize. However, if they encounter the formidable A&M team that overwhelmed Missouri and Florida, Auburn could find themselves in a precarious position, especially if quarterback Payton Thorne continues to struggle with turnovers.

The season concludes with the Iron Bowl against Alabama, traditionally a fierce rivalry that has favored the Tide, especially in Tuscaloosa. Auburn has managed to keep the games competitive in the past with standout players, but this year’s team, riddled with inconsistencies, may struggle to put up a fight. The prospect of facing Alabama while nursing a poor record adds to the grim outlook.

Given the current trajectory, Auburn’s path to bowl eligibility seems fraught with challenges. The team must navigate their remaining schedule with precision, and each game is crucial. Missouri and Kentucky are critical opportunities for the Tigers to demonstrate they can compete against solid teams. If they falter in these games, the pressure will only intensify as the season progresses.

In summary, Auburn’s season is on the brink. Hugh Freeze’s second year was expected to yield growth, but instead, regression is a very real possibility. With only a few likely wins and a challenging slate ahead, the Tigers must find a way to rally. The upcoming weeks will be a test of their resolve and ability to overcome adversity, as they seek to avoid a disappointing finish to the season and regain a foothold in the competitive landscape of college football.