In a thrilling showdown on October 14, 2023, Beau Pribula led No. 16 Missouri to a dramatic 23-17 victory over Auburn in double overtime. The win marks a significant rebound for Missouri, improving their record to 6-1 overall and 2-1 within the Southeastern Conference.
Pribula’s decisive moment came with a 3-yard touchdown run in the second overtime, capping a game that saw Missouri struggle at times but ultimately prevail. The team had faced a setback just a week prior with a loss to Alabama, but this victory against Auburn, who has now lost four consecutive games, demonstrated their resilience.
Missouri’s offense was bolstered by Ahmad Hardy, who contributed significantly with 58 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Pribula also played a pivotal role, throwing for 252 yards despite two interceptions, while adding another 28 yards on the ground. His touchdown run late in the game tied the score at 17, setting the stage for overtime.
Auburn opened the scoring with a 1-yard touchdown run from Jackson Arnold. Despite this early success, the team struggled offensively for much of the game, managing only 10 points after the initial drive. Arnold finished the contest with 207 passing yards and recorded his first interception of the season. Rushing standout Jeremiah Cobb gained 111 yards, and Cam Coleman led the receiving corps with six catches for 108 yards.
As the game progressed into overtime, Auburn’s defense held strong, but their offense faltered in critical moments. Alex McPherson, who had been reliable earlier in the season, missed a crucial field goal attempt on Auburn’s first possession of overtime. Missouri’s Blake Craig also failed to convert a potential game-winning field goal, setting the stage for Pribula’s eventual heroics.
Missouri’s defense played a key role in securing the victory, effectively limiting the Auburn offense after the opening drive. The defensive unit’s ability to stop Auburn on fourth down during the final overtime possession sealed the win for Missouri.
With this victory, Missouri could see a rise in the upcoming AP Top 25 College Football Poll. The team’s next challenge will be against No. 17 Vanderbilt on October 21, 2023. Meanwhile, Auburn is set to face Arkansas on the same day, still searching for their first win in conference play.
The outcome of this game illustrates the ongoing struggles for Auburn under head coach Hugh Freeze. Despite moments of promise, the team has yet to find consistent offensive rhythm, a trend that has plagued them throughout the season.
As the season progresses, both teams will be looking to build on this performance, with Missouri aiming to solidify their position in the rankings and Auburn desperate to turn their fortunes around.