Arkansas and Auburn kicked off their SEC schedules on a sweltering Saturday afternoon on the Plains.
In the first quarter, Arkansas began their drive at their own 25-yard line but faced an early delay of game penalty. They struggled initially, with quarterback Ja’Quinden Jackson’s pass falling incomplete on the first play. A run by Taylen Green eventually moved the chains, and after several plays, Jackson managed to find a running lane for a critical first down. However, Arkansas failed to convert a field goal attempt from 41 yards.
Auburn’s first possession started at their own 24-yard line. Quarterback Hank Brown quickly connected with Cam Coleman for a 12-yard gain. The Tigers slowly advanced until Brown was intercepted at the 20-yard line by Doneiko Slaughter, leaving both sides without points on their initial drives.
The second quarter saw a turning point as Jackson rushed for a 1-yard touchdown, putting Arkansas ahead 7-0 shortly after the quarter began. Auburn’s ensuing drive progressed but stalled, prompting a punt as they failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Arkansas, maintaining control, was unable to add to their lead, facing their own setbacks with turnovers.
By halftime, Arkansas led 7-0 despite Auburn’s four turnovers, including three interceptions from Brown.
After the break, Payton Thorne took the helm for Auburn. The Tigers managed to tie the game at 7-7 after Thorne connected with KeAndre Lambert-Smith for a touchdown. However, Arkansas quickly responded with a spectacular 40-yard touchdown pass from Green to Isaiah Sategna, regaining the lead at 14-7.
Auburn continued to struggle offensively, compounding their issues with turnovers, including a key interception by Arkansas’s TJ Metcalf. As the fourth quarter unfolded, Arkansas expanded their lead with a successful 43-yard field goal, making the score 17-7 with just over 12 minutes remaining.
The game highlighted both teams’ challenges and resilience, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive SEC season ahead.