Auburn’s quarterback Payton Thorne returns to the starting position as the Tigers face off against Oklahoma this Saturday.
In the first quarter, Thorne started with a short pass to Malcolm Simmons, but it resulted in no gain. During the next play, he handed the ball to Jarquez Hunter, who was stopped immediately. Thorne’s subsequent pass intended for Cam Coleman was dropped, leading to a punt on their first possession.
Oklahoma responded quickly with a completed pass that gained them a first down, followed by a powerful run that advanced to Auburn’s 48-yard line. Michael Hawkins Jr. then threw a 48-yard touchdown pass, putting Oklahoma ahead 7-0 with 12:30 remaining in the first quarter.
Auburn struggled offensively, with Thorne’s passes nearly intercepted and blocked at the line of scrimmage. After a few plays, Thorne passed to Hunter, managing to gain 15 yards for a first down. Auburn progressed to Oklahoma’s 36-yard line, where Thorne’s pass to KeAndre Lambert-Smith was caught. However, despite a series of drives deep into Oklahoma territory, Auburn failed to score, with Jackson being stopped short on a 4th-and-goal from the 1-yard line.
Oklahoma’s subsequent series started from its own 1-yard line, and on third down, Hawkins was sacked by Auburn’s Austin Keys, forcing a quick punt from Oklahoma. The first quarter concluded with Oklahoma leading 7-0.
In the second quarter, Auburn had a promising start with Thorne connecting a pass to Cam Coleman to secure a first down. Thorne then ran for 4 yards before pitching to Hunter, who was taken down. However, on third down, Thorne completed a touchdown pass to KeAndre Lambert-Smith, leveling the score at 7-7 with 12:52 remaining.
Oklahoma responded with a series of plays, but ultimately failed to find the end zone, relying instead on a solid defense from Auburn. The Tigers then took the lead after Thorne threw a 40-yard touchdown pass to Malcolm Simmons, making it 14-7 with 5:41 left in the second quarter.
Oklahoma’s next attempt ended in disappointment as they were unable to convert on a crucial third down. Auburn’s offense continued to push forward, with Thorne leading a drive that ultimately ended with an unsuccessful field goal attempt as the first half concluded with Auburn leading 14-7.
As the third quarter began, Oklahoma scored a field goal, bringing the score to 14-10 in favor of Auburn.
In the fourth quarter, Thorne connected with Luke Deal for a 1-yard touchdown pass, extending Auburn’s lead to 21-10 with 14:12 remaining in the game.