Auburn Football: 3 takeaways from thrilling win over Oregon

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - AUGUST 31: Seth Williams #18 of the Auburn Tigers makes the game winning touchdown pass against Verone McKinley III #23 of the Oregon Ducks in the fourth quarter during the Advocare Classic at AT&T Stadium on August 31, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

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ARLINGTON, TEXAS – AUGUST 31: Justin Herbert #10 of the Oregon Ducks is sacked by Jeremiah Dinson #20 of the Auburn Tigers in the second quarter during the Advocare Classic at AT&T Stadium on August 31, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

2. The defenses were great when it mattered

For most of this game, it was the defenses that dictated the pace. The offenses had their moments, but for long stretches, the defenses took over.

Auburn’s offense was mostly ineffective up until the fourth quarter. The only reason they were still in striking distance entering the fourth was the defense. Justin Herbert certainly got his stats, as he went 28-for-37 for 242 yards with one touchdown.

However, when it came to key situations like third down, the Tigers held their own. On the game, the Ducks went 4-for-14 on third down. The Tigers also made a huge stop on fourth down late in the fourth quarter.

The Tigers had similar struggles on third down. Oregon’s defense held them to 7-for-17 on that key down.

On the defensive side of the ball, this was an encouraging performance for both teams.

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