Full Breakdown
Auburn Falls to Missouri in Double Overtime Thriller
10/19/2025, 12:47:28 PM
Game Overview: Auburn vs. Missouri
In a closely contested SEC matchup on October 18, 2025, the No. 16 Missouri Tigers edged out the Auburn Tigers 23-17 in double overtime at Jordan-Hare Stadium. This defeat marked Auburn's fourth consecutive loss in conference play, leaving them with a 3-4 overall record and 0-4 in the SEC. Missouri improved to 6-1, maintaining their hopes for a College Football Playoff berth.
Key Moments and Performance
The game began with Auburn taking an early lead, as quarterback Jackson Arnold scored on a 1-yard run, capping a 75-yard opening drive. However, Missouri responded with a 24-yard field goal, followed by a 2-yard touchdown run from Ahmad Hardy, giving them a 10-7 lead at halftime. Auburn regained the lead in the third quarter with a touchdown from freshman Omar Mabson II, but Missouri tied the game late in the fourth quarter with another touchdown from Hardy.
Both teams struggled offensively in overtime. Auburn missed a 50-yard field goal attempt in the first overtime, while Missouri's kicker, Robert Meyer, also missed a chance to win the game. In the second overtime, Missouri's Beau Pribula scored a 3-yard touchdown run, and Auburn's offense faltered, turning the ball over on downs to seal the victory for Missouri.
Defensive Highlights
Auburn's defense was a bright spot, with standout performances from Xavier Atkins and Robert Woodyard Jr., who each recorded 11 tackles. The defense managed to force two turnovers, including a critical interception by Jay Crawford that sent the game into overtime. Despite these efforts, the offense's inability to capitalize on opportunities, including three missed field goals by Alex McPherson, proved detrimental.
Official Statements & Responses
Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze expressed frustration following the loss, stating, “This stinks, and there’s nothing you can say to make anyone feel better in that locker room. Our fans are incredible, and we’d love to be at Toomer’s (Corner) with them right now. But we’re still obviously not finding ways to win games.” Freeze acknowledged the team's struggles, noting, “We’re finding ways to not make enough plays collectively in all facets – coaching, offense, defense, special teams.”
Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz praised his team's resilience, saying, “The guys did a great job, and I just thought there was a refusal to lose.”
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Auburn's performance highlighted the coaching decisions during overtime, particularly the offensive strategy that resulted in negative yardage plays. Freeze admitted that the offensive plan in overtime was not effective, stating, “Our plan in overtime wasn’t great offensively.”
What's Next for Both Teams
Auburn will look to regroup as they travel to Fayetteville, Arkansas, for their next matchup against the Razorbacks. Missouri, on the other hand, aims to build on their momentum as they prepare to face Vanderbilt next week.
This game underscored the challenges facing Auburn's program under Freeze, as they continue to seek their first SEC victory of the season amidst mounting pressure.
