I don't think auburn is going to pony up and fire Gus this season (because I don't think they can afford it), but they want to IMO. People much smarter than me though think it is more likely than not that he is fired after next week's game. Putting 2 x 2 together, I think it'll come down to if they can get a "yes" from who they want before they do anything, which is Freeze. But Freeze would be smart to wait another year and drive his price up some (and have the opportunity at the Vol job that he apparently still wants). Also, would Freeze want to be the guy that bumped Gus, who he is somewhat close with? As for Steele, apparently he and Gus don't have the best of relationships these days, but that's not really all that unusual in their situations. But as mentioned, he makes really good money. At one point, the USA job was desirable to him, but not so sure now? Regardless, they can do better anyway. But, if he leaves, and Gus is retained, it will be interesting to see who he can get to run the defense. One, he's looked at as a lame duck coach now. Two, very seriously doubt auburn gives a new DC a very lucrative contract (refer to point one). Three, Gus' coaching rolodex only has about 3 cards in it, and one of those is Keven Steele. He doesn't know anyone and doesn't trust anyone he doesn't know. They'd probably end up promoting from within and adding another former player to the staff or some such.
