Tigers top Jaguars 31–15 in first-ever matchup at Jordan-Hare

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AUBURN, Ala. (WALA) - In their first-ever trip to Jordan-Hare Stadium, the South Alabama Jaguars gave the 24th-ranked Auburn Tigers a competitive fight — but it wasn’t enough to overcome a balanced Auburn offense led by Jackson Arnold and Jeremiah Cobb. The Tigers came away with a 31–15 win, improving to 3–0 heading into SEC play.

Auburn quarterback Jackson Arnold (11) scrambles away from South Alabama defensive lineman Ed... — Auburn quarterback Jackson Arnold (11) scrambles away from South Alabama defensive lineman Ed Smith IV (45) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, in Auburn, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)(Butch Dill | AP Photo/Butch Dill)

Quick Start for the Tigers

Auburn wasted no time setting the tone. On the opening drive, quarterback Jackson Arnold hit Cam Coleman on a 32-yard touchdown strike to put the Tigers on the board early. South Alabama responded with an efficient drive of their own but stalled in the red zone, settling for a field goal to make it 7–3.

South Alabama safety Wesley Miller (1) breaks up a pass in the end zone intended for Auburn... — South Alabama safety Wesley Miller (1) breaks up a pass in the end zone intended for Auburn wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr. (1) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, in Auburn, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)(Butch Dill | AP)

Auburn’s Second Quarter Surge

From there, Auburn found another gear. Arnold showcased his mobility with back-to-back rushing touchdowns in the second quarter, stretching Auburn’s lead. South Alabama managed to answer with a 20-yard touchdown pass from Bishop Davenport to Jeremy Scott, but the Tigers marched right back down the field in a sharp two-minute drill. Jeremiah Cobb finished off the drive with a rushing score to give Auburn a 28–10 lead heading into halftime.

South Alabama Fights Back

The Jaguars opened the second half with renewed energy. Davenport connected with Devin Voisin for a touchdown that cut the lead to 28–15. South Alabama’s defense stepped up, holding Auburn to just a single field goal in the entire second half. But despite multiple promising drives, the Jags couldn’t cash in. A fourth-quarter fumble by Davenport proved costly, ending any hopes of a comeback.

Auburn wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr. (1) gets around South Alabama cornerback Jayvon... — Auburn wide receiver Eric Singleton Jr. (1) gets around South Alabama cornerback Jayvon Henderson (2) as he carries the ball during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, in Auburn, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)(Butch Dill | AP)

Stat Leaders

Arnold led the way for Auburn, finishing with 142 yards passing, 51 yards rushing, and three total touchdowns (one passing, two rushing). Cobb carried the load on the ground, rushing for 119 yards and a touchdown.

Davenport finished with 170 yards passing, two touchdowns, and one interception for the Jaguars.

What’s Next

Auburn now turns its attention to SEC play with a massive showdown in Norman next week — a homecoming for Jackson Arnold, who transferred from Oklahoma.

South Alabama returns home to open Sun Belt Conference play against Coastal Carolina as they look to bounce back from the non-conference loss.