Auburn’s trip to Athens turned into the kind of upset that hangs around a program for a long time.
The Tigers knocked off No. 1 Georgia on a walk-off field goal Saturday, a result that ended a nine-game skid against the Bulldogs and gave Auburn its first win in Athens since 2005. It was also Auburn’s first victory over an AP No. 1 team since 2017, and the Tigers now own four wins over the top-ranked team in the AP poll - more than any other program.
The win came out of Auburn’s bye week and pushed the Tigers to 4-2 overall and 2-2 in SEC play. LSU is next on the schedule at home after a 31-0 win over Mississippi State this weekend.
Auburn coach Alex Golesh met with reporters afterward and opened by thanking the fans and the band that made the trip.
The first number he circled was Auburn’s plus-3 edge in turnover margin.
Golesh also praised the group for staying in the fight and trusting the process, adding, “that’s how you build a program.”
One of the most striking moments of the day came when Golesh discussed kicker Alex McPherson, who received the game ball. Golesh said, “that kid’s been on so many hospital beds to get to this moment. I’m so proud of him.”
Golesh was emotional when asked what it meant to lead Auburn to a win over No. 1 Georgia just six games into his tenure.
He also said several former players reached out during the week to explain what this rivalry game means, naming Bo Jackson, Takeo Spikes, Jason Campbell and Ronnie Brown.
Golesh singled out Byrum Brown’s toughness as well, saying Brown handled the game with both physical and mental grit. Brown was briefly injured but still finished with 115 rushing yards.
More than anything, Golesh said he was proud that Auburn “never flinched” after falling behind 14-0 early.
When asked about his 12-year-old son predicting an Auburn win, Golesh smiled and replied, “pretty cool when a 12-year-old believes.” He was emotional again as he answered.
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