In a thrilling contest on November 4, 2023, at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Alabama, Beau Pribula scored a decisive 3-yard touchdown run in the second overtime, leading the No. 16 Missouri Tigers to a hard-fought 23-17 victory over the struggling Auburn Tigers.
With this win, Missouri improved to a record of 6-1 and 2-1 within the Southeastern Conference (SEC), rebounding from a recent home defeat to Alabama. The victory was crucial as the Tigers faced a challenging opponent, showcasing their resilience on the road.
Game Highlights and Key Performances
Missouri’s Ahmad Hardy emerged as a standout player, rushing for 58 yards and scoring two touchdowns. Pribula contributed significantly with 252 passing yards, despite throwing two interceptions, and added 28 rushing yards to his performance. His touchdown in the second overtime capped off a dramatic game that had seen both teams trade blows throughout.
After Auburn initially took the lead with a one-yard touchdown run by Jackson Arnold, Missouri responded effectively. Hardy’s touchdown run with 5:07 remaining in regulation tied the game at 17, setting the stage for the overtime thriller. Auburn had a chance to win in regulation but saw a critical interception from Pribula halt their final drive.
Auburn’s Alex McPherson struggled with accuracy, missing a field goal attempt on the team’s first overtime possession, marking his third miss of the night. Missouri’s Blake Craig also faced a missed opportunity, leaving the game in the balance until Pribula’s late-game heroics secured the win.
Auburn’s Ongoing Struggles
Auburn fell to 3-4 overall and remains winless in conference play at 0-4. The team has faced ongoing challenges in offensive execution under head coach Hugh Freeze, with Arnold completing 207 passing yards and suffering his first interception of the season. Meanwhile, Jeremiah Cobb added 111 rushing yards, and Cam Coleman caught six passes for 108 yards, but it was not enough to overcome Missouri.
Defensively, Auburn held Missouri to just 10 points after an opening-drive touchdown, demonstrating their ability to compete. Nevertheless, the inability to convert offensive opportunities continues to be a troubling trend for the Tigers as they seek their first conference victory.
Looking ahead, Missouri will face No. 17 Vanderbilt next Saturday, while Auburn heads to Arkansas for their upcoming matchup. As the season progresses, both teams will aim to improve their standings in the SEC.
This contest will likely impact future rankings, with Missouri expected to rise in the AP Top 25 College Football Poll following their narrow road victory.
