The Auburn Tigers found themselves in an early 10-0 deficit against the Kentucky Wildcats but roared back to dominate the remainder of the game, ultimately securing a 24-10 victory in Lexington.
Week after week, the Tigers had struggled to close out games against SEC opponents. However, head coach Hugh Freeze saw a different Auburn team on the field this time around, as they put together a complete performance to snap their losing streak.
“We’ve had chances to win several games this year, but for whatever reason—whether it’s a lack of confidence, not making the right call, or failing to execute—it just hasn’t happened,” Freeze said. “Tonight, though, our kids found a way to win. I couldn’t be prouder of them and for the Auburn family. We’ve got the greatest fans and support, and I’m incredibly thankful for that. Our kids and staff have kept working hard through everything.”
Auburn’s season has been a mix of highs and lows, with wins against Alabama A&M and New Mexico but painful losses against tough opponents like California, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. The game against Kentucky appeared to be heading in a similar direction when Auburn trailed 10-0 at the end of the first quarter.
“Heck, we had a chance to lay down tonight,” Freeze reflected. “Down 10-0 on the road, but there’s just no quit in these kids. I’m really proud of everyone’s effort tonight. This is a tough place to play, and we were up against a great defensive team.”
A major factor in Auburn’s comeback was their ability to adjust their offensive game plan. After a slow start, they shifted from a pass-heavy approach to focusing on the run. Jarquez Hunter had an explosive night, rushing for 278 yards on 23 carries—the fourth-highest total in Auburn history.
Quarterback Payton Thorne also settled in after a rocky first quarter. After starting 5-for-10 with an interception, Thorne completed 15 of his last 16 passes and threw a touchdown.
As a team, Auburn rushed for 326 yards on 50 carries, significantly outgaining Kentucky 500 yards to 224. From the second quarter on, Auburn outgained Kentucky 374 to 36, completely shutting down the Wildcats.
For Hunter, it was a breakout performance, with 275 of his 278 yards coming in the last three quarters. Kentucky, ranked 21st nationally in rush defense, had allowed just over 100 rushing yards per game. Auburn’s rushing attack, led by Hunter and the offensive line, obliterated that stat.
“We came out wanting to throw the ball early, but clearly, we needed to adjust,” Freeze explained. “Teams haven’t been able to run on Kentucky outside of Florida, and those are good teams they’ve stopped. I think this speaks volumes about our O-line, tight ends, and running backs. They really did an outstanding job tonight.”
Despite battling a stomach bug, Freeze didn’t let that slow him down. His team responded with a signature win that could change the course of their season.
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