Game recap
Offensive MVP: Jameis Winston, Florida State
The Heisman Trophy winner saved his best until last, throwing two fourth-quarter TD passes and leading the Seminoles on a seven-play, 80-yard drive for the go-ahead score with 13 seconds remaining.
Defensive MVP: P.J. Williams, Florida State
Intercepted a pass by Auburn quarterback Nick Marshall at the Seminoles' 40-yard line on the Tigers' first series of the fourth quarter (he fumbled on the return, but it was recovered by teammate Lamarcus Joyner). The turnover led to the first of Winston's two touchdown passes in the final 11 minutes.
Key play
Auburn had just kicked a 22-yard field goal to take a 24-20 lead with 4:42 to play. Before the Florida State offense needed to even get back on the field, Kermit Whitfield already had taken care of business. He sprinted through a hole on the ensuing kickoff and down the left sideline for a 100-yard return to put the Seminoles back in front 27-24. Whitfield, one of the fastest players in the country, got a key block from teammate Karlos Williams and found a gaping alley. His electrifying return gave the Seminoles their first lead since going up 3-0 in the first quarter.
By the numbers
195 Rushing yards by Auburn running back and Heisman finalist Tre Mason on 34 carries.
31 Points scored by both teams in the fourth quarter.
217 Nick Marshall delivered everything but the victory. Marshall threw for 217 yards and two touchdowns with an interception. He also ran for 45 yards and a third score.
147 Yards receiving on nine catches by Florida State junior receiver Rashad Greene.