Published September 15, 2012 - 4:13pm
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Here’s a couple of quick thoughts on Auburn’s 31-28 win against ULM:
What it means: Auburn gets their first win of the season, and it sure wasn’t pretty. Usually a victory over a Sun Belt team isn’t much to celebrate, but after the 0-2 start, the Tigers will be celebrating, even with a three point victory in overtime. There’s a long way to go even before talks of bowl eligibility, but it’s good to see Auburn on the board and beat the SEC West killers Louisiana-Monroe.
What I liked: Two things stood out in this game: Kiehl Frazier and DE Corey Lemonier. Frazier had a better day, although shaky at times, connecting on 10 of 18 passes for 130 yards and one touchdown, with one INT. His play will be a work in progress moving forward, and he’s nowhere near where he should be. DE Corey Lemonier lived in the ULM backfield, and he had multiple big-time plays and hits on the QB. He was a force in the second half.
What I didn’t like: It’s hard to just pick one. A win is a win, but Auburn just had trouble putting the game away in the second half. Up 28-14 late, the offense sputtered, and ULM came back to tie it at 28 and send it into overtime. Kiehl Frazier looked shaky late, as did the play calling, and he threw a pick in the fourth quarter, missing a wide-open Emory Blake for a sure touchdown. The Tigers are going to have to find some type offense that can sustain a drive before heading into SEC play. The offensive play calling is very questionable right now from Scot Loeffler. I like the first-half Kyle Frazier much more than the second-half Kiehl Frazier.
Who’s the man: RB Onterio McCalebb had a big day today running the football. He carried 11 times for 128 yards and one touchdown. He left late with cramps, but he played well today.
Key Play: QB Kiehl Frazier’s 33-yard Hail Mary touchdown just before half to take the lead 21-14. This play gave the Tigers momentum heading into halftime, and it was a much-needed lift. The Tigers then came out and scored on their first drive of the second half. It really flipped momentum and gave Auburn some cushion and confidence.
What’s next: Auburn breaks the seal and gets their first win. Next week AU continues SEC play, as LSU comes to town.
What is up with the Sun Belt and the SEC? ULMonroe for the second straight week looked like a member of any conference but the SBC, and nearly beat its second straight SEC team. Western Kentucky beat UK on a trick play in OT. Troy gave MSU everything it could handle. Even outside of the SEC, K-State struggled with North Texas, ULL scored 24 versus Ok-State, and Ark State was even in it for a half against Nebraska! Coming out of the woodwork.