Mon Nov 25 06:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Auburn Upsets No. 15 Texas A&M in Four Overtime Thriller

**AUBURN, Ala. —** In a game that will be remembered for its dramatic twists and turns, Auburn pulled off a stunning 43-41 victory over No. 15 Texas A&M in four overtimes on Saturday night. The win, Auburn’s fifth of the season, ended a frustrating campaign on a high note and sent shockwaves through the SEC playoff race.

Auburn quarterback Payton Thorne threw for 301 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Jarquez Hunter rushed for 130 yards and three touchdowns, his second three-TD performance of the season. The Tigers overcame a 21-0 first-half deficit, showcasing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Texas A&M, despite rallying impressively and accumulating 296 yards in the second half, ultimately fell short. Quarterback Marcel Reed threw for 297 yards and three touchdowns but a crucial dropped pass in the end zone during a fourth-down attempt in the fourth overtime sealed the Aggies’ fate.

The game was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts. Both teams traded touchdowns in the first overtime and field goals in the second. A missed two-point conversion in the third overtime set the stage for the dramatic conclusion. Auburn’s winning points came on a two-point conversion to KeAndre Lambert-Smith.

The victory was particularly sweet for Auburn coach Hugh Freeze, who has faced criticism throughout the season. “Our locker room has continued to fight,” Freeze said, celebrating the team’s perseverance. The win also highlighted the performance of walk-on kicker Ian Vachon, whose crucial field goal sent the game into overtime.

The loss significantly impacts Texas A&M’s SEC championship hopes, although they remain mathematically alive heading into a crucial matchup against No. 3 Texas next week. Coach Mike Elko acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized the team’s determination to move forward. Auburn, meanwhile, will face No. 7 Alabama next Saturday. The stunning upset victory serves as a significant upset and a memorable end to a challenging season for the Auburn Tigers.

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