FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The Auburn Tigers overcame a late deficit to defeat the Arkansas Razorbacks 33-24 on Saturday, securing their first Southeastern Conference victory of the season behind two fourth-quarter interceptions by defensive back Rayshawn Pleasant.
The Razorbacks, now 2-5 overall and 0-4 in the SEC, held a 24-20 lead entering the final period after a 21-7 halftime advantage. Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green threw for 288 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with Isaiah Sategna for a 75-yard score that capped a strong first half.
Auburn, improving to 4-4 overall and 1-3 in conference play, leaned on its defense to flip the script. Pleasant’s first interception, returned 35 yards for a touchdown with 10:32 left, gave the Tigers a 27-24 edge. His second pick with 2:45 remaining sealed the win, setting up a field goal that extended the margin to nine points.
The Tigers managed 310 total yards, with running back Jarquez Hunter rushing for 84 yards and a touchdown. Arkansas finished with 389 yards but was hampered by two turnovers in the fourth quarter, including Green’s late interception, and a blocked extra point.
Auburn coach Hugh Freeze credited the defensive stand: “Those turnovers were huge. Rayshawn stepped up when we needed him most.” Arkansas head coach Sam Pittman lamented the close loss: “We had chances, but those mistakes in the fourth killed us.”
The Razorbacks return to action next Saturday at Mississippi State, while Auburn hosts Vanderbilt.
