Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze sat down with the media to preview the Tigers’ massive SEC opener against Oklahoma. Sitting at 3–0, Auburn now faces its first true test of the season, and Freeze didn’t hold back in his breakdown of the Sooners, his team’s preparation, and key injury concerns.

Freeze praised the Tigers’ efficiency against Ball State, highlighting a turnover-free and penalty-free offensive performance. Auburn’s defense held strong in the run game, but Freeze admitted there were too many missed assignments that need to be cleaned up before facing Oklahoma’s high-powered offense.

Quarterback Jackson has been steady through three games, showing strong decision-making and leadership. Freeze emphasized that wins and protecting the football remain the biggest measuring sticks. But Auburn fans are buzzing about Jackson’s return to Oklahoma, where he started last season before transferring to the Plains. Freeze shared advice for his QB to block out the noise and focus on execution.

Injuries remain a concern, particularly with defensive lineman Amar Morris, though Freeze expects most of the banged-up players to make progress. Freshmen have been heavily involved early, with nearly 20 first- or redshirt-freshmen seeing snaps in the first three weeks. Freeze acknowledged it’s a balancing act between development and immediate production.

The matchup with Oklahoma presents Auburn’s stiffest challenge yet, with Freeze describing Brent Venables’ defense as “playoff-level” talent. The Tigers will need clean pass protection, strong red-zone efficiency, and the ability to hit explosive plays downfield to keep pace.

This is Auburn’s chance to make a statement on the national stage. Freeze knows it—and the Tigers’ preparation this week reflects that urgency.

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