In a post-game press conference after Auburn's 31-13 loss to the Maryland Terrapins in the TransPerfect Music City Bowl, head coach Hugh Freeze expressed his resolution for the upcoming year. Freeze's goal for 2024 is to create a consistent standard of work, competition, and true team spirit within the program.

Throughout the 2023 season, Freeze has been vocal about the need to improve the team's culture and foster a stronger sense of community among the players. In a previous press conference on November 27, soon after the regular season finale against Alabama, Freeze acknowledged that progress had been made but stressed the importance of building stronger relationships within the locker room.

The head coach lamented how societal factors, such as the prevalence of social media and video games, have contributed to a lack of cohesion within Auburn's team. Freeze highlighted the need for players to engage in more real-life conversations and emphasized the detrimental effects of individualism and self-centeredness, which he refers to as the "disease of me."

Player responses to Freeze's comments indicate agreement with his assessment. Quarterback Payton Thorne admitted that there was a lack of player-led leadership throughout the year. Thorne expressed his eagerness to gather the key individuals and have a collective discussion about their future, even if it takes hours to compile a cohesive plan.

Linebacker Eugene Asante emphasized the significance of winter workouts in establishing the desired standard. He emphasized the mental game required to push beyond physical limits, forging a resilient mindset that translates onto the football field. Freshman defensive end Keldric Faulk emphasized the importance of details, such as punctuality and eye contact in team meetings, as integral parts of setting the standard.

It is clear that Auburn's locker room needs attention to address the disconnect. Even tight end Rivaldo Fairweather acknowledged the necessity of eliminating loose leashes and finding a group of individuals committed to uniting as a team, willing to put everything on the line for victory.

While the responsibility to rectify the situation rests on the players, Freeze openly accepted his share of accountability. The head coach admitted that he does not need anyone to tell him when the team falls short; he recognizes that the ultimate responsibility lies with him.

As Auburn moves into 2024, Hugh Freeze's New Year's resolution serves as a clear directive. With a renewed focus on creating a consistent standard of work ethic, competition, and team unity, Freeze aims to mold Auburn football into a tightly-knit and successful program. The path to achieving this goal will involve recognizing and rectifying the factors contributing to the team's disconnect.