Auburn Experiences Shocking Defeat to New Mexico State Aggies
In a surprising turn of events, the Auburn Tigers were handed a shocking defeat by the Conference USA team, the New Mexico State Aggies. Many had anticipated a dominant performance from Auburn, but the Aggies took control of the game, emerging victorious with a final score of 31-10.
The game kicked off with the Aggies displaying their offensive prowess, marching 75 yards downfield on their opening drive. This set the tone for the rest of the afternoon. Quarterback Diego Pavia connected with Kordell David for a nine-yard touchdown pass, giving New Mexico State an early lead.
After a series of punts exchanged between the teams, Auburn’s ground game found some success. Led by quarterback Payton Thorne and running back Jaquez Hunter, the Tigers advanced 75 yards downfield. Thorne sealed the drive with a touchdown pass to Rivaldo Fairweather, equalizing the score at 7-7.
However, New Mexico State managed to regain the advantage by adding a field goal in the closing minute of the first half. As the teams headed to the locker rooms, the Aggies held a 10-7 lead.
Unfortunately for Auburn, the second half proved to be disastrous. The Tigers were unable to find their rhythm on offense and were forced to punt on their opening possession. Seizing the opportunity, the Aggies capitalized on their momentum. They embarked on an 80-yard journey, culminating in a 17-yard touchdown pass from Diego Pavia to Star Thomas, extending their lead to 10 points.
Auburn’s offense continued to struggle as they took the field once again. Nevertheless, they managed to put some points on the board when Alex McPherson successfully kicked his 18th consecutive field goal of the season. With just over eight minutes remaining, the Tigers found themselves trailing by 14 points.
But the resilient Aggies were not done yet. Makhilyn Young bulldozed through the Tiger defense, carrying the ball four times for 38 yards, including a two-yard touchdown run that put the game out of Auburn’s reach.
Despite one final opportunity to reach the endzone, the Tigers failed to convert on a 4th and 16, ultimately handing New Mexico State their first-ever victory against an SEC team.
Auburn must quickly rebound from this disappointing loss as they prepare to face their in-state rival, Alabama, in the highly anticipated Iron Bowl, which will mark the end of the regular season. Kickoff for this intense showdown is set for 2:30 p.m.
It is clear that Auburn was caught off guard by the New Mexico State Aggies’ exceptional performance. This unexpected upset serves as a reminder that in the world of college football, anything can happen. As both teams now reflect on this historic game, fans eagerly anticipate the highly anticipated Iron Bowl and wonder if Auburn can bounce back from this defeat.
