Auburn holds on late to defeat Louisville in Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game

Sixth-ranked Auburn held off a late charge by Louisville to open its season with a victory in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game at the Georgia Dome. The Tigers led by as many as 24 points before coming away with a 31-24 victory.

Here's what you need to know...

• Louisville outgained Auburn 407-327
• On the first play of the game, Louisville freshman quarterback Lamar Jackson's pass was picked off by Tray Matthews.
• Louisville outgained Auburn 165-144 in the first half, but trailed 17-0.
• Auburn quarterback Jeremy Johnson finished the first half 6-of-12 for 67 yards and two interceptions, but ran for the only offensive touchdown of the half. He threw another pick in the third quarter, finishing with three interceptions.
• Louisville defensive back Josh Harvey-Clemons - who tipped the Nick Marshall pass while with Georgia that led to the "Miracle at Jordan-Hare" in 2013.
• Louisville outscored Auburn 24-7 over the final 22:07 of the game.
• With 52 seconds remaining, Louisville mistakenly burned its final timeout prior to Auburn's third-down play, robbing the Cardinals of a final score and a chance to tie the game.
• Louisville's Jackson impressed with his ability to make plays with his feet, rushing for 105 yards and a score.

Play of the Game

Some miscommunication from Louisville led to the ball hitting the deck and Auburn's Justin Garrett gladly took advantage, taking the ball 82 yards the other way for the touchdown, to extend the Tigers' lead to 14-0.

The 82-yard return is the longest fumble return for a touchdown by an Auburn player since 1969.