Auburn quarterback Payton Thorne returns as the starter for the Tigers in their matchup against Oklahoma this Saturday.
In the first quarter, Thorne connected with Malcolm Simmons, but the play only resulted in a return to the line of scrimmage. Following a handoff to Jarquez Hunter that ended in a tackle, Thorne attempted a pass to Cam Coleman, which was dropped. After failing to convert, Auburn had to punt on their initial possession.
Oklahoma quickly responded, converting a pass for a first down and then moving to Auburn’s 48-yard line. Michael Hawkins Jr. then dashed for a 48-yard rushing touchdown, putting the Sooners ahead 7-0 with 12:30 remaining in the first quarter.
In possession again, Auburn struggled as Thorne’s pass aimed at KeAndre Lambert-Smith nearly resulted in an interception. Following another failed pass, Thorne managed to complete a short throw to Hunter, gaining 15 yards and securing a first down. Despite a few successful plays, Auburn was unable to score and turned the ball over on downs at the Oklahoma 1-yard line after a series of plays fell short.
The Sooners then faced their own challenges deep in their territory but managed to recover, performing well on defense with a quarterback sack by Austin Keys on Hawkins. As the first quarter drew to a close, Oklahoma held a narrow lead at 7-0.
Moving into the second quarter, Auburn’s offense found rhythm, capitalizing on a pass to Cam Coleman for a first down. Thorne showcased his running ability, scoring a touchdown with a pass to KeAndre Lambert-Smith, leveling the game at 7-7 with 12:52 left in the quarter.
Oklahoma’s drive continued, but they were met with fierce defensive pressure, resulting in an incomplete pass and a punt. Auburn maintained momentum, with Thorne throwing a 40-yard touchdown pass to Malcolm Simmons to take a 14-7 lead with 5:41 remaining in the second quarter.
As the half concluded, Oklahoma attempted to rally but could not convert, entering halftime with the score at 14-7 in favor of Auburn.
Following the break, the game remained tightly contested in the third quarter, with Oklahoma managing a field goal to bring the score to 14-10. However, Auburn was poised for success.
In the fourth quarter, Thorne connected with Luke Deal for a 1-yard touchdown, extending Auburn’s lead to 21-10 early in the period. The Tigers continued to build momentum, looking strong as the game progressed.