Hugh Freeze Record At Ole Miss By Year

Hugh Freeze's Legacy at Ole Miss: Success and Controversy

Five Seasons in Oxford

In 2012, Hugh Freeze embarked on a five-year tenure as head coach at Ole Miss. His arrival marked a resurgence for the Rebels, who had struggled in recent years. In his first season, Freeze led Ole Miss to a 6-6 record, including a memorable 41-24 victory over in-state rival Mississippi State in the Egg Bowl. The Rebels became eligible for a bowl game for the first time since 2009, earning a berth in the BBVA Compass Bowl, where they defeated Pitt to end the season with a 7-6 record. Freeze's success continued in subsequent seasons. He guided Ole Miss to back-to-back nine-win regular seasons for the first time since 1962 and four consecutive bowl games for the first time since 1971. In 2014, the Rebels finished 9-4 and lost in the Peach Bowl, while in 2015, they went 10-3 and earned a Sugar Bowl victory.

Overall Record and SEC Performance

Over the course of his five seasons at Ole Miss, Freeze compiled a 39-25 record. His SEC record stood at 19-21, with notable victories over Alabama, Auburn, and LSU. However, Ole Miss faced several off-field challenges during Freeze's tenure, including allegations of recruiting and academic violations.

Scandal and Resignation

In 2017, Freeze resigned from Ole Miss amid an investigation into his personal conduct. The investigation revealed a pattern of misconduct, including inappropriate phone calls to a female escort service. Freeze's resignation came as a shock to many, given his on-field success.

Legacy and Impact

Hugh Freeze's legacy at Ole Miss is complex. On the one hand, he revitalized the football program and led the Rebels to several memorable victories. On the other hand, his tenure was marred by off-field controversies that ultimately led to his departure. Freeze's story serves as a reminder of the importance of both athletic success and ethical conduct in college athletics.