On September 5, 2024, Auburn football secured a 17‑16 victory over Baylor, a one‑score game that underscored the Tigers' growing capacity to perform under pressure.
A Historically Tough Battle
Auburn’s record in one‑score contests has been dismal, compiling a 5‑19 mark over the past five seasons, a 1‑13 tally during the Hugh Freeze era, and a 4‑6 record under Bryan Harsin’s two‑year stewardship.
The decisive play came with nine seconds remaining when safety Eric Winters halted Baylor tight end Matthew Klopfenstein on a two‑point attempt, preserving the lead, while quarterback Byrum Brown orchestrated a 75‑yard, 10‑play drive that culminated in an 11‑yard touchdown run to seal the win.
Despite the triumph, Auburn’s offensive line allowed 11 tackles for loss, and Baylor quarterback DJ Lagway, nursing an injury, still managed to disrupt the Tigers’ secondary throughout the contest.
Coach Alex Golesh described the win as a step forward but emphasized that it is only the opening chapter of a long season, noting the program’s transition after the Freeze and Harsin tenures and the need to build on this fourth‑quarter resilience.