Key Insights from Day 2 of SEC Media Days

The following points came to light during the second day of SEC Media Days in Atlanta:

• Few coaches face quite as much pressure as Hugh Freeze of Auburn heading into the 2025 season. Tasked with reviving a program that has diminished, Freeze has been making strides in recruiting but has seen limited success—amassing a record of 11-14. He understands the need for improvement, especially at a competitive place like Auburn, and has set high expectations for the forthcoming season.

“I truly believe that in the playoff run, we’re going to be in this discussion because I love this team,” Freeze remarked during the event. “We’ve got to stay healthy and we need the ball to bounce our way a couple times this year instead of against us, but that’s our full expectation.”

• Auburn is optimistic about its roster, which includes several top recruits and transfers, particularly focusing on skill positions, evidenced by the signing of five-star recruit Cam Coleman.

• In the spotlight, Tennessee is experiencing turbulence following the departure of starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava, who transferred to UCLA. New on the scene is quarterback Joey Aguilar, who, along with competitors Jake Merklinger and George MacIntyre, is vying for the starting position.

“We will have a competition at the quarterback position,” stated Josh Heupel. “I’m really proud of the steps they’ve taken throughout the summer in developing relationships and rapport with the guys around them.”

• Traditionally, coaches attribute struggles to a lack of experience, but Georgia’s Kirby Smart sees promise in a younger roster. With a significant portion being first or second-year players, Smart embraces their enthusiasm and potential.

“You get youthful exuberance,” Smart noted. “It’s their first time getting a chance to start—there’s a lot more excitement.”