If you’re an Auburn fan, it’s been a less than pleasant viewing in Manhattan, Kan.

The Tigers rushed for just 55 yards in the first half, and it looks as if the Tigers streak of games with at least 200 yards rushing is in jeopardy.

It seems the bye week actually did not benefit the Tigers. Credit Kansas State, they’re tackling well and playing very sound assignment football. But also fault Auburn because they’ve missed plenty of big-play opportunities.

Nick Marshall has struggled in the passing game missing receivers on several throws early in the game. He didn’t get any help at times, however. Duke Williams dropped two big passes in the first half, one of which would’ve been a touchdown and the other which would’ve set up the Tigers deep in K-State territory and perhaps led to a score.

The Tigers, who were the best in the nation on third down coming in, converted just two of seven third down opportunities. Head coach Gus Malzahn told ESPN’s Sam Ponder at halftime, “I’m happy when we’re getting first downs.”

Moving the chains leads to tempo for Auburn, neither of which have been present so far tonight. The Tigers have averaged just 3.2 yards per carry and 3.2 yards per pass. You wonder if Auburn feels as if its survived biggest gut punch from the Wildcats.

We knew this would be a tough road game for Auburn, but they’ve gotten the Wildcats best effort tonight. But the Tigers have struggled in a way we haven’t seen yet since Malzahn took over the program.