AUBURN — For the first time since 1952, Ole Miss has beaten Auburn in two straight seasons.
The No. 13 Ole Miss Rebels (6-1, 3-1 SEC) picked up a 28-21 victory over the Auburn Tigers (3-4, 0-4 SEC) under the lights at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
It was a close game for the majority of the time, but a touchdown run by quarterback Jaxon Dart late in the third quarter shifted the momentum to the Rebels and the Tigers were never able to get it back.
A touchdown run by running back Quinshon Judkins gave Ole Miss a two-score lead that Auburn was not able to erase.
Tight end Rivaldo Fairweather caught an eight-yard touchdown pass from Payton Thorne late in the fourth quarter to bring Auburn within one score, but the onside kick was recovered by Ole Miss, effectively ending the game.
What are the five biggest takeaways from the game?
Playcalling was a struggle for Auburn
Auburn made numerous questionable decisions in the play calling as the game went along.
From running the ball up the middle on third-and-six to multiple plays that appeared dead on arrival, this game consisted of a few headscratchers.
Third down was a nightmare for both offenses
Auburn went 4-14 on third down and Ole Miss went 2-11.
There was a lot of drives that went three-and-out or simply stalled out around midfield.
It is hard to win when doing poorly on third down. Ole Miss did a slightly better job and it ended up giving them an avenue to victory.
Jarquez Hunter had a good showing
Hunter has struggled to find his footing so far this season. The Auburn running back was expected to be a difference-maker for the team this season but that had not gone according to plan.
He had a breakout game against Ole Miss, however, picking up 91 yards and two touchdowns off of 15 carries.
Hunter finding his rhythm could be what helps Auburn find some success in conference play.
Auburn has not made any progress at quarterback
Neither Auburn quarterback was able to get much going.
Robby Ashford got the start but finished 3-4 for 22 yards and an interception. He added 27 yards on the ground.
Payton Thorne went 9-13 for 100 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He added 34 yards on the ground.
Thorne's line does not look bad but only attempting 13 passes as the primary quarterback is concerning.
Judkins came to play
The Ole Miss running back created a lot of problems for Auburn.
He rushed for 124 yards and one touchdown off of 21 carries. Auburn never found an answer for him and paid the price.
Auburn will be back in action at home inside Jordan-Hare Stadium next week when the Mississippi State Bulldogs come to town. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. CT and the broadcast can be found on the SEC Network.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email daniel.locke@1819news.com.
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