The Auburn Tigers faced minimal opposition from the Alabama A&M Bulldogs, cruising to a decisive 73-3 victory.
Auburn’s Dominant Season Opener
The Auburn Tigers had a high-scoring first half that paved the way for an easy victory in their season opener.
Auburn defeated the Alabama A&M Bulldogs 73-3 at Jordan-Hare Stadium tonight. Both teams agreed to shorten the third and fourth quarters to 10 minutes each after Auburn established a 52-3 lead by halftime.
The Tigers wasted no time getting started, as Jarquez Hunter capped off a 70-yard opening drive with a 34-yard touchdown run.
Auburn continued to find the end zone on its next two possessions, highlighted by a 44-yard touchdown pass from Payton Thorne to Cam Coleman, marking the first touchdown of the freshman standout’s college career.
Auburn’s First Half Dominance
Thorne’s performance in the first half played a significant role in Auburn’s success, as he completed 13 of 21 passes for 322 yards and four touchdowns. Remarkably, he accumulated 158 yards in the first quarter alone, surpassing his total yardage from nine games last season.
In addition to his passing, Thorne also rushed for 49 yards and a touchdown on four carries. Senior running back Jarquez Hunter had a strong start as well, breaking loose for a 34-yard touchdown run on Auburn’s opening drive.
The Tigers also excelled defensively, forcing five three-and-outs in the first half.Auburn maintained its momentum at the start of the shortened second half, with Malcolm Simmons recovering a blocked punt in the end zone and catching a 57-yard pass from Hank Brown, further extending Auburn’s lead to 66-3.
Auburn’s New Wide Receiver Corps Shines
The Tigers’ revamped wide receiver group showcased its potential, with all four leaders in receiving yards being newcomers.
Simmons topped the list with 91 yards and one touchdown on three receptions, while KeAndre Lambert-Smith contributed 80 yards and two touchdowns from three catches. Perry Thompson recorded 82 yards and one touchdown on two receptions, and Cam Coleman added two catches for 62 yards and one touchdown.
Auburn will be back in action next week, hosting Cal at 2:30 p.m. CT on ESPN2.
