Auburn, AL – Riding a wave of momentum after a dominant 48-10 victory over Arkansas and boasting a three-game winning streak, the Auburn Tigers are preparing to host the New Mexico State Aggies. This matchup at Jordan-Hare Stadium comes as Auburn looks to continue its resurgence late in the season.
Game Details:
- Opponent: New Mexico State Aggies
- Date: November 18, 2023
- Time: 3 p.m. CT
- Location: Jordan-Hare Stadium, Auburn, AL
- TV: SEC Network
- Radio: Auburn Sports Network
The atmosphere around the Auburn program is markedly different from just a few weeks prior when the team was navigating a four-game losing streak. However, according to freshman defensive lineman Keldric Faulk, the team’s response to adversity has been crucial. “It just depends on how you take the loss,” Faulk stated, emphasizing the importance of learning and improving from setbacks rather than assigning blame. This resilience seems to have fueled their current winning streak as they prepare for New Mexico Vs Auburn.
Head Coach Hugh Freeze echoed this sentiment, highlighting the team’s choice to learn and grow from their experiences. “I firmly believe in life you are either winning or learning, and I think that’s a choice,” Freeze commented. He stressed the importance of continuous improvement and applying lessons learned, a philosophy that appears to be paying dividends as Auburn heads into this non-conference game against New Mexico State.
Alt text: Auburn football head coach Hugh Freeze speaking to his team during practice, emphasizing focus and preparation for the upcoming game.
While the looming Iron Bowl against Alabama is on the horizon, the immediate focus for Auburn is squarely on New Mexico State. The Aggies, with an impressive 8-3 record and a six-game winning streak of their own, are far from an easy opponent. This game is critical for Auburn to maintain momentum and avoid any distractions looking ahead to their rivalry game.
Linebacker Jalen McLeod, recently named SEC Defensive Player of the Week, underscored the need to respect their current opponent. “The biggest challenge is making sure everybody knows that (New Mexico State) is no pushover,” McLeod cautioned. Cornerback Keionte Scott added that the team’s preparation remains consistent, treating every game with the same level of importance and intensity. This week’s game against New Mexico State is no exception as they aim to continue their winning ways.
Alt text: Action shot of Auburn linebacker Jalen McLeod tackling an opponent, showcasing his defensive prowess and highlighting his SEC Defensive Player of the Week recognition.
Player Perspectives: Tyler Fromm on Offensive Improvements and Game Focus
Tight end Tyler Fromm provided insights into the team’s recent performance and mindset through a series of questions:
Q: What has been the key to Auburn’s offensive development over the past month?
A: “The last month, I just feel like we’ve really cleaned up all the mistakes that we had early in the year. We’ve simplified everything. Everybody is just playing more confidently and faster. That’s been helping the offense out a lot.” Fromm highlighted the offensive adjustments as a key factor in Auburn’s improved performance leading into the New Mexico State game.
Q: How important is it for the team to focus on New Mexico State and avoid looking ahead to the Iron Bowl?
A: “The fans are always going to look forward, but we can’t get to the Iron Bowl until we play New Mexico State,” Fromm emphasized. “We’re going to take this week like we would any other week. We’re always going to treat every opponent like they’re the best team we’re going to play. We’re going to do that this week, take care of business Saturday, and then we’ll look forward.” This focus is crucial as Auburn aims to avoid an upset against a strong New Mexico State team.
Q: With potentially the last two home games at Jordan-Hare Stadium approaching, what are your thoughts on playing in this stadium?
A: “No doubt. I’m going to take it in and cherish the last two chances, at least, that I have here. It’s all I’m guaranteed anyway. It’s been a fun ride. I’ve really enjoyed my time here. It puts it into perspective that this could be the last two. That’s always so cool to think about – the time I spent here and the games that we’ve played in Jordan-Hare.” Fromm reflected on the significance of playing at home as they prepare for New Mexico vs Auburn.
Inside the Series: Auburn vs New Mexico State History
Auburn has a perfect 3-0 record against New Mexico State in their all-time series. All previous contests have been held at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Auburn’s victories include a 55-14 win in 1993, a 55-20 win in 2007, and a 42-7 win in their most recent matchup in 2012. This history provides Auburn with a confident backdrop as they prepare for Saturday’s game.
Historically, Auburn has been dominant in non-conference regular season games, holding a 263-71-6 record since 1933. Prior to a loss against Penn State in 2022, Auburn had won 17 consecutive home games against non-conference opponents, demonstrating their strength at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
Against current Conference USA teams, Auburn boasts a 38-5-1 record. This includes wins against teams like Louisiana Tech, Southern Miss, and Western Kentucky, further showcasing Auburn’s historical success against similar competition as New Mexico State.
By the Numbers: Key Stats for Auburn Football
- 354 Rushing Yards: Auburn’s ground game exploded for 354 rushing yards against Arkansas, marking their best performance in an SEC game since 2016 and the most in an SEC road game since 2013. This rushing attack could be a major factor against New Mexico State.
- 30 Receptions for Fairweather: Tight end Rivaldo Fairweather is now tied for the team lead with 30 catches this season. He is approaching the single-season record for an Auburn tight end, highlighting his importance in the passing game.
- 89.8 PFF Coverage Grade for James: Cornerback D.J. James has consistently performed at an elite level, earning an 89.8 coverage grade from PFF. His defensive contributions will be vital in containing the New Mexico State offense.
- 800 Program Wins: Auburn is on the cusp of achieving its 800th program win, a milestone that would place them among just 13 FBS teams to reach this mark. This game against New Mexico State presents an opportunity to reach this historic achievement.
As Auburn prepares to face New Mexico State, the focus remains on maintaining momentum, executing effectively, and securing another victory at home. For fans planning to attend, a stadium split is planned with upper deck sections requested to wear navy and lower bowl sections in orange, creating a visually striking game day atmosphere for this matchup between New Mexico vs Auburn.
