Auburn RB Jarquez Hunter says he gained nearly 300 yards because he was 'tired of losing'
Auburn running back Jarquez Hunter was hands-down the player of the game for the Tigers in Saturday’s 24-10 win over the Kentucky Wildcats on the road.
Hunter nearly crossed the century mark three times over in the victory, tallying 278 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns on 23 carries. He averaged 12.1 yards per attempt. He was a also a small factor in the passing game out of the backfield, totaling 4 catches for 19 yards.
When asked about his performance, how he did it and the motivation behind it, Hunter’s response was simple.
“To be honest, I got tired of losing, man,” Hunter said after the game.
“To be honest, I got tired of losing”
Jarquez Hunter after rushing for 278 yards and beating Kentucky. pic.twitter.com/uftWih67ub
— Auburn Tigers | AL.com (@aldotcomTigers) October 27, 2024
He said he had a conversation with head coach Hugh Freeze earlier in the week about his determination heading into the contest. Auburn has been on a four-game losing streak before the win.
“We’re going to find a way to win this game this week,” Hunter said. “It doesn’t matter how we do it or how it gets done. We’re going to find a way. I try to play my hardest for my teammates and coaches. I try to give my all every play I’ve got. I try to take advantage of my opportunities I got today and I tried to wear (the Wildcats defense) out.”
Hunter totals 863 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns on 120 carries this season. Saturday’s performance was his best and his second time rushing for at least 100 yards in a game this year. The last time he achieved that goal was when he posted 152 yards on the ground with 1 rushing touchdown and 1 receiving touchdown in the 45-19 victory over UNM on Sept. 14.
Finally! Been saying all season to use the run to set up the pass instead of the other way around. I know it is fashionable to do the pretty pass but I still love Coach Dye football.
It would have been nice if he had stated that at the beginning of the year. It would have still been valid given 2023 and then maybe they’d have more than 3 wins this year. But heck, still want to give props for an outstanding performance.
Great performance by a great back. Kentucky could do nothing to stop him.