WATCH: This could be the most devastating play for sputtering Auburn this year

Auburn’s offense had a tough time finding a rhythm at Mississippi State, and then it received a crushing break near the end of the third quarter.

Bobbie Whitlow made a 41-yard run near the Bulldogs’ goal line, but as he was sandwiched between defenders, the ball squired out at the goal line, and bounced into the end zone.

Upon video review, the officials ruled it a touchback, and kept the score 16-6 in favor of Mississippi State.

It was a devastating blow for the Auburn offense that was 1-for-9 on third down and had 89 rushing yards even with that run. But fortunately for Auburn, Mississippi State didn’t capitalize on the turnover, which was Auburn’s second fumble of the night.

In the first half, the Tigers opened 0-for-6 on third down conversions, and Whitlow had four carries for 30 yards. Auburn had just four first downs.

Auburn has the worst luck tonight. Fumbles going into end zone. #HailState pic.twitter.com/JsamoguJtG

— Trey Wallace (@TreyWallace_) October 7, 2018

Keith Farner

A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.