Arkansas and Auburn kicked off their SEC season on a steamy Saturday in Auburn.
In the first quarter, Arkansas began their drive at their own 25-yard line but faced a delay of game penalty. Following an incomplete pass by quarterback Ja’Quinden Jackson, the Razorbacks struggled to advance. A successful third down play allowed Jackson to escape the pocket and secure a first down, moving the team to the 47-yard line. However, a near interception followed, and Jackson’s run led to a first down before the Razorbacks came up empty, missing a 41-yard field goal attempt.
Auburn took possession at their own 24-yard line, with Hank Brown connecting a pass to Cam Coleman for a 12-yard gain. This was followed by a carry from Jarquez Hunter. After a series of plays, Brown’s pass was intercepted by Doneiko Slaughter at the 20-yard line, marking a troubling trend for both teams, who struggled to capitalize on their drives.
The second quarter saw Arkansas push into the red zone, culminating in Jackson scoring a touchdown from a yard out, putting the Razorbacks ahead 7-0 early in the quarter. Auburn attempted a response but could only manage short gains, and eventually a punt.
With Arkansas backed up at their own 10-yard line, they struggled offensively, leading to another Auburn opportunity. Auburn’s chance to capitalize fizzled out with yet another turnover, as Brown threw multiple interceptions, culminating in four turnovers by the Tigers in the half.
As the second quarter ended, Arkansas maintained a slim lead at 7-0.
In the third quarter, Auburn brought in Payton Thorne at quarterback. The Tigers were unable to advance against the Razorbacks, leading them to turn the ball over on downs after a failed punt fake. Arkansas took over but could not find success and turned the ball back to Auburn with a succession of incomplete passes.
The momentum shifted when Thorne threw a pass to Robert Lewis that resulted in a successful 54-yard touchdown pass to KeAndre Lambert-Smith, tying the game at 7-7. Just moments later, Arkansas responded by hitting Isaiah Sategna for a touchdown after a series of plays that showcased their resilience.
Arkansas extended their lead to 14-7, maintaining pressure on Auburn, which led to yet another interception of Thorne’s pass, bringing Auburn’s turnover count to four for the game.
As the fourth quarter unfolded, Arkansas continued to control the game and added a successful 43-yard field goal to increase their lead to 17-7 with just over 12 minutes remaining in the contest.
The game highlighted key turnovers from Auburn while Arkansas made critical plays to build their lead and maintain their lead throughout the second half.