Oklahoma has only face Auburn in football twice. In both instances the two programs met in Sugar Bowl matchups. And, in both instances, OU left the field victorious. As Oklahoma prepares to face the Tigers as a conference opponent for the very first time, let’s take a look back at the brief history between the two. The Sooners have not only won both games but they also showcased their offensive and defensive prowess.
In the 1971 Sugar Bowl, Chuck Fairbanks’ No. 3 Sooners defeated Ralph Jordan’s No. 5 Tigers 40-22. The game was lopsided due to Oklahoma’s ability to control the game on both sides of the ball.
Their most recent encounter between the Sooners and Tigers came at the end of the 2016 season. It was another Sugar Bowl for the Sooners and it was equally impressive as the previous one. This time Bob Stoops’ No. 7 Sooners prevailed over Gus Malzahn’s No. 17 Tigers, winning 35-19. It marked Stoops’ final game as Oklahoma’s head coach before retiring.
The 2016 Sugar Bowl was a memorable one to Oklahoma for another reason. Running back Samaje Perine broke the school’s career rushing yards record, showcasing his exceptional career as a Sooner. Quarterback Baker Mayfield also excelled in the game, passing for 296 yards and two touchdowns.
Oklahoma’s defense played a crucial role in their victory, limiting Auburn’s offensive production to just 339 total yards, and forcing a turnover. Cornerback Jordan Thomas recorded the game’s only interception, .
“We’re a prideful team,” Oklahoma coach Stoops said after the game. “And we’re confident, regardless of the people that try to rattle the cage and shake your confidence. … We improved as we went through the end and we fought through the outside noise.”
Overall, Oklahoma’s dominance over Auburn in the Sugar Bowl matchups doesn’t really mean a whole lot in terms of Saturday’s contest. However, much like with Tennessee last week, it showcases the consistent performance and ability to outplay their opponents even if they were from the SEC. That’s what allows them to go on the road within the new conference with both a sense of confidence and pride.
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