There are many differences between Alex Golesh and former Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze. For starters, Golesh is younger, and his Russian background contrasts sharply with Freeze’s upbringing in Mississippi.
Another distinction sits on or behind Golesh’s desk: a framed print with the letters “Fe.” Before Auburn fans take offense, let me explain what it means.
Golesh’s attitude, shaped during his time at Tennessee, could carry over to the field as Auburn’s first-year head coach. Compared to Freeze and Bryan Harsin who, to be fair, brought that same mentality to everything from ignoring high school coaches to trying to win over the fan base during his 21 months Golesh represents a shift, whether fans like it or not.
After five straight losing seasons, marked by unexpected losses and blowouts by rivals, Auburn may need that kind of mindset. Coaches like Kirby Smart, Steve Sarkisian, and Lane Kiffin have built programs with that approach, so why not Golesh? His two predecessors failed, and it might take a stubborn, win-at-all-costs coach to restore Auburn’s place in college football.
That mentality would be especially useful against Alabama (six straight losses) and Georgia (eight straight losses), but honestly, it couldn’t hurt against anyone. The Tigers have lacked that edge in recent years, getting pushed around by weaker teams.
Hopefully, that framed “Fe” print translates to success on the field this fall, and Golesh’s mantra takes hold.
