AUBURN – Auburn football is making a strong start in their season opener against Alabama A&M, scoring on four of their first five drives, with quarterback Payton Thorne contributing to three touchdowns. One of those touchdowns was a noteworthy moment for freshman Cam Coleman, who secured his first career touchdown in the first quarter.
This marks Hugh Freeze’s second season leading the team, having finished his debut season with a 6-7 record and a loss in the Music City Bowl. Freeze, who joined Auburn after coaching at Liberty, previously served as head coach at Ole Miss.
The game is set to kick off at 6:30 p.m. CT at Jordan Hare Stadium, and will be streamed on ESPN+.
In the latest updates, Auburn’s score reached 72-3 after a 37-yard touchdown pass from Hank Brown to Sam Jackson. Malcom Simmons also scored on a 57-yard pass from Brown. Additionally, a blocked punt was recovered for a touchdown, bringing the score to 59-3.
By halftime, Auburn led Alabama A&M 52-3. Payton Thorne’s impressive stats included completing 13 of 21 passes for 322 yards and four touchdowns, alongside 49 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. Other standout performances included Keandre Lambert-Smith with three catches for 80 yards and two touchdowns, Perry Thompson with two catches for 82 yards and a touchdown, and Jarquez Hunter with a 53-yard rushing touchdown.
As the game progressed, Auburn maintained a consistent lead, including a notable 70-yard touchdown pass to Perry Thompson and a series of offensive successes that highlighted their dominance over Alabama A&M.
The weather during the game is expected to be around 88°F at kickoff, gradually cooling down as the evening progresses. The Auburn football schedule for the 2024 season includes several key matchups following this opener.
Overall, Auburn is looking to build on this strong performance as they move forward in the season.