Halftime takeaways from Auburns SEC opener against Texas A&M

It's been a rough first half for the Auburn Tigers, who are down 6-3 through two quarters.

Author:
Joshua Collins
Publish date:
Sep 23, 2023 1:43 PM EDT

In this story:

The opening kickoff for Auburn’s SEC schedule has passed, and we are well under way at Kyle Field in the contest against the Texas A&M Aggies. This game is definitely an important matchup that will show the coaching staff, players, and fans alike where the Tigers stand against SEC talent.

The Tigers entered the game at 3-0 the first time since 2019, will they have what it takes to leave this game 4-0.

Here are some points from the first half of play against the Aggies.

-The defense showed up to stop the run today in Kyle Field holding the Aggies opening drive to only a field goal. They were able to generate some reasonable pressure on quarterback Connor Weigman during the first drive as well.

- The offense came out to a rough start going 3 and out with their first drive. Payton Thorne needs to calm down in the pocket and make some smarter decisions with the football.

-The Aggies second drive looked more put together as they were able to move the ball a little more effectively against the Tiger’s defense, however Auburn still held them to a field goal on the drive.

-The second drive for the Tigers had a better run game with Jarquez Hunter looking solid with the ball in his hands. Damari Alston not wanting to be left out produced some solid performance as a ball carrier as well. However, this success was almost cut short with a fumble by Alston on a pitch play that would have produced a defensive touchdown for the Aggies. The ruling was determined to an incomplete forward pass.

-Damari Alston sustained an injury on the incomplete pass play.

-The drive ended with a punt after Payton Thorne was sacked on 3^rd and 8.

-The first quarter of play ended with the Aggies on top of the Tigers 6-0.

-The third drive Thorne overthrew several receivers; seems he still hasn’t gotten set and in a rhythm. The drive ended with a punt by Oscar Chapman.

-The third drive was plagued with penalties.

-The defense is helping to keep the Tigers in the game with their lights out performance. They are bringing much more pressure on Weigman causing several incomplete passes forcing 3 and outs.

-The Tigers head into the locker room at halftime trailing the Aggies 6-3 after Alex McPherson nailed a 53-yard field goal at the end of the half.