Auburn left Baton Rouge with a loss Saturday night, but heads were not hung low. After LSU had a three-touchdown lead shortly after the second quarter started, Auburn did something it didn’t do in 2012: fought back.

The 35-21 loss that gave Auburn its first loss this fall left Tiger fans nothing short of disappointed and angry by halftime, but Gus Malzahn’s squad made up for the first 30 minutes in the final half of the game.

As the rain halted for most of the second half, Auburn’s game improved.

The Tigers' defense continued to work after stopping LSU on its final four drives of the second quarter. The offense also got things going, as well.

An interception led to a touchdown. But LSU responded. Auburn’s ensuing drive went for Tre Mason’s second score, but--again--LSU responded with a touchdown of its own.

In the end, Auburn would score again to cut the score down to 35-21, and if the Tigers recover the onside kick--which was overturned on a replay--then Auburn would have a chance to truly make a comeback.

At the same time, Auburn made a statement. The Tigers aren’t throwing in the towel this season.

Auburn rushed and threw for more than 200 yards in each category. Mason rushed for 134 yards, Nick Marshall threw for 224 yards and Sammie Coates had 139 yards in receiving. That’s nothing short of impressive.

But three turnovers killed the Tigers.

At the same time, Auburn is young, not age-wise, but with experience. Watching Marshall in the first half showed the Death Valley crowd and the rain shook quarterback.

But as the Tigers progressed against LSU on Saturday, they will progress throughout the season. After a bye week this Saturday, Ole Miss should be ready for a war.

Under Malzahn, it appears it is truly A New Day on the Plains.