Auburn, AL
Sep 7, 2024
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The California Golden Bears triumphed over the Auburn Tigers 21-14 in front of 88,043 fervent fans at Jordan-Hare Stadium, marking their first victory against Auburn in just their second attempt. Fernando Mendoza, who connected on 25 of 36 passes for 233 yards and two touchdowns, orchestrated a potent offensive display, highlighted by two scores to redshirt freshman Nyziah Hunter in the first half. Hunter, contributing with a total of four receptions for 44 yards, tied his career-high in both metrics.
Auburn initially took the lead with a 15-yard touchdown pass from Payton Thorne to KeAndre Lambert-Smith but struggled thereafter, plagued by turnover woes. Thorne's four interceptions were critical, as Cal capitalized, especially on a pivotal fourth-quarter pick by Nohl Williams, who notched two interceptions on the day. Jaivian Thomas broke open the game with a 32-yard touchdown run, responding directly to an Auburn fumble recovery by Cal's Craig Woodson. Late-game defensive heroics from Cal preserved the lead, despite a closing Auburn touchdown run by Thorne. This victory also highlighted Cal's progress in turnover management, having committed zero turnovers in their first two games of the season, a significant improvement from last year's tally.
KeAndre Lambert-Smith (Auburn)
Payton Thorne connected with KeAndre Lambert-Smith on a 15-yard touchdown pass, giving the Tigers an early 7-0 lead and driving excitement among the Auburn faithful.
Nyziah Hunter (California)
Fernando Mendoza hit Nyziah Hunter for a 19-yard touchdown pass, tying the game at 7-7 and demonstrating Cal's resilience in a hostile environment.
Nyziah Hunter (California)
Mendoza found Hunter again for a 13-yard touchdown early in the second quarter, putting the Golden Bears in front 14-7 and capitalizing on an Auburn turnover.
Jaivian Thomas (California)
Jaivian Thomas' explosive 32-yard touchdown run extended Cal's lead to 21-7, punishing Auburn for a costly fumble earlier in the drive.
Nohl Williams (California)
Defensive back Nohl Williams intercepted Payton Thorne’s pass, foiling Auburn's attempt to tie the game and securing the Golden Bears' victory.
Payton Thorne (Auburn)
Payton Thorne rushed for a 2-yard touchdown, narrowing California's lead to 21-14 and giving Auburn a glimmer of hope late in the game.
Nohl Williams (California)
Williams picked off another Thorne pass with 28 seconds left, sealing California's hard-fought 21-14 victory and highlighting their defensive prowess.
Fernando Mendoza (California, QB)
Mendoza efficiently led the California offense by completing 25 of 36 passes for 233 yards and two touchdowns, showing poise under heavy Auburn defensive pressure.
Nyziah Hunter (California, WR)
In only his second career game, Hunter snagged four receptions for 44 yards and scored both of Cal's first-half touchdowns, setting the tone for the offense.
Jaivian Thomas (California, RB)
Thomas’ 53 rushing yards on eight carries, including a game-breaking 32-yard touchdown run, was pivotal in solidifying California's lead.
Nohl Williams (California, DB)
Williams was a defensive stalwart, recording two interceptions, including a game-sealing pick, and played a crucial role in disrupting Auburn's offense.
Payton Thorne (Auburn, QB)
Despite throwing for 165 yards and a touchdown, Thorne's four interceptions were costly. However, he did contribute a rushing touchdown to keep Auburn close.
Jarquez Hunter (Auburn, RB)
Hunter had a solid performance with 68 rushing yards on 12 attempts and three receptions, though a crucial fumble marred his overall effort.
Keldric Faulk (Auburn, DL)
Faulk delivered a dominating defensive performance with six solo tackles, including three for loss and two sacks, consistently pressuring the Cal quarterback.
Teddye Buchanan (California, ILB)
Buchanan led Cal's defense with 11 tackles, including 2 sacks, adding a forced fumble and regularly harassing the Auburn backfield.
California Golden Bears vs. Auburn Tigers - Final Score - September 07, 2024 | FOX Sports
California-Auburn Postgame Notes - California Golden Bears Athletics
California Golden Bears vs. Auburn Tigers Box Score and Stats - September 07, 2024 | FOX Sports
Football vs Auburn on 9/7/2024 - Box Score - California Golden Bears Athletics
2024 Cal Golden Bears vs. Auburn - YouTube
GAME RECAP: #10 Penn State 28, #22 Auburn 20 - College and Magnolia
California Golden Bears
7
7
0
7
21
Auburn Tigers
7
0
0
7
14
