After their quick touchdown opening drive, Auburn could not continue its momentum for the majority of the first half as their 10 penalties for 105 yards proved to be costly for the Tigers.
Auburn did end the first half on a somewhat positive note though as the defense forced an Ole Miss punt after Cassanova McKinzy and Kris Frost combined for a sack. On the next play Nick Marshall completed a 57-yard touchdown pass to Sammie Coates to tie it at 14.
Auburn came out strong ready to play as soon as they elected to receive the ball to start the game, as they completed a 73-yard drive in less than three minutes. After Marshall's two-yard touchdown run capped off the opening drive, Auburn's offense began to slow down for the rest of the half, completing three punts and an interception.
But Marshall's touchdown run was the first time Ole Miss has allowed a first quarter touchdown this season.
After Auburn's defense forced a three-and-out on Ole Miss' first offensive drive, the Rebels bounced back for the rest of the first quarter. Their next drive was good for 11 plays and 92 yards as Ole Miss tied it up at 7 following a four-yard touchdown run from I'Tavius Mathers.
Auburn forced another punt to begin the second quarter but they did not capitalize off of Ole Miss' short 23-yard punt, since Marshall was intercepted in the red zone on the following drive with 10:28 remaining in the first half.
Ole Miss took the 14-7 lead after Bo Wallace had a career-high 59-yard rushing attempt and then completed the drive with a 10-yard touchdown pass to Laquon Treadwell.
After Marshall's touchdown pass to Coates, Ole Miss ended the first half by taking the 17-14 lead after a 47-yard field goal.
Ole Miss will receive the ball to begin the second half.
Do you like this story? The Plainsman doesn't accept money from tuition or student fees, and we don't charge a subscription fee. But you can donate to support The Plainsman.
