It’s Good! LSU Beats Auburn On Walk Off Field Goal
#12 LSU entered Saturday's game at #7 Auburn as a 10.5 point underdog. They had plenty of bite, coming from behind to win on a 42 yard Cole Tracy walk-off field goal by the score of 22-21.
"We had confidence that he was going to make it," said head coach Ed Orgeron after the win. "There was no question in my mind that he was going to make it."
Getting off to a quick start, LSU's defense earned a turnover on Auburn's opening drive as Grant Delpit picked off Jarrett Stidham.
With the short field, the Tigers (of LSU) drove 34 yards, scoring first on a Clyde Edwards-Helaire one yard touchdown run.
They would build the lead to 10-0 early in the 2nd quarter, before Auburn began to move the ball efficiently, scoring on back to back drives, taking a 14-10 lead into halftime.
LSU's offense couldn't sustain a long drive in the 3rd quarter, attempting to extend one drive with a failed fake punt, while Auburn added a touchdown in the 3rd to go up 21-10.
Unfazed, LSU quarterback Joe Burrow continued to operate the offense, earning a field goal late in the 3rd quarter, setting up a thrilling 4th.
Burrow connected with wide receiver Dee Dillon on a 71 yard touchdown midway through the 4th, as Dillon outran several defenders and tip-toed the sideline for the last few yards to paydirt.
LSU's 2 point attempt failed, leaving them in need of a defensive stop.
Auburn couldn't move the sticks, failing on 3rd down, as they were 4-12 on 3rd downs for the game.
With the ball, Burrow led LSU on a gutsy game-winning drive, with a key 4th and 7 conversion, several sustained big hits, and a moxie that was undeniable.
"We worked hard on the passing game this week," explained Orgeron. "Going into the game, (offensive coordinator) Ensminger was confident."
With 3 seconds left, LSU lined up for the game winning field goal, as Tracy knocked it through before being hoisted on his teammates' shoulders.
"I seen Cole Tracy make a bunch in practice," said a jubilant Orgeron. "I know the kid. I watched him prepare. No doubt in my mind."
LSU improves to 3-0 on the young season, with a true road win against a top 10 team, and another victory against a top 10 squad on a neutral field.
Coach Orgeron's team will likely enter the top 10 in the college polls after week 3.
LSU returns home next week to host Louisiana Tech (2-0). Kickoff from Tiger Stadium next Saturday is set for 6:00pm.