Takeaways: Auburn’s Defensive Surge Fuels Blowout of Mississippi State

Auburn finds early rhythm

Auburn opened with a three-and-out, then Byrum Brown threw a tip-ball interception. The offense found momentum after Darrion Smith forced a fumble by Mississippi State quarterback AJ Swann.

Brown connected with Keshaun Singleton for a 26-yard touchdown. After Mississippi State missed a field goal, Alex McPherson added a 37-yard kick, giving Auburn 10 first-quarter points—its highest total in that period since its Week 2 game against Southern Miss.

The article notes that Auburn has often struggled to start games on offense. Finding an early rhythm without relying on a defensive spark will be important in the Tigers’ final two games.

Defense dominates the trenches

Auburn forced five fumbles in the first half and recovered four, scoring after those recoveries. Mississippi State tried three quarterbacks, but the Tigers’ pressure continued. Auburn finished with seven sacks and limited the Bulldogs to 46 rushing yards. Nate Johnson and Walter Mathis Jr. had 1.5 sacks apiece, while freshman linebacker Shadarius Toodle led Auburn with two tackles for loss. The defensive performance could matter in upcoming games against Samford and Alabama, the latter matchup coming in the Iron Bowl in two weeks.

Bowl eligibility secured

With two games remaining, Auburn has reached six wins and secured bowl eligibility. It is the program’s first bowl-eligible season since 2023. The article says Auburn’s schedule ranked as the 13th-toughest in the country. The win over Mississippi State adds to signs that the team is moving in a positive direction in Alex Golesh’s first season.