Jarquez Hunter’s performance against Kentucky was one to remember.

He set a new career high for rushing yards, and his 278 yards on the ground were the most by an Auburn player since Tre Mason’s 304 in the 2013 SEC Championship game. Most importantly, he helped Auburn get its first win since Week 3.

“I’m tired of losing,” Hunter said after the game. “I tried to take advantage of the opportunities I had today. I tried to wear them out.”

Hunter absolutely wore Kentucky down, and the only people who enjoyed the performance more than he were his teammates.

Payton Thorne said after the game: “I’ve been watching from behind the game. I’ve never seen anyone this hard to tackle when you hit the guy straight.” “He’s incredibly strong, and that’s something he and his work ethic appreciate.”

Hunter’s performance made Thorne’s life easier after the first quarter, as Auburn’s play split over the final three quarters was 15 passes to 47 runs. Thorne also completed 15 of his last 16 passes.

Hunter’s big night was also rewarding defensivelyHunter saw his successes pay off as he helped put the game away in the second half.

“It gives us more power to go out there and give them the ball,” defenseman Keldric Faulk said after the game. “When they do something great, it’s like they energize us. When we stop on third down or try to hit the ball, it gives them energy. “They’re waiting to get out there and put the ball in the end zone.”

Linebacker Dorian Mausi Jr. It was very special for the player he regularly encountered in training to show what he could do.

“Finally someone else gets to experience it. This kid is a runner,” linebacker Dorian Mausi Jr. said after the game. “I’m happy he’s doing something we see on a daily basis.”

He was blown away by the performance of Auburn corner Kayin Lee.

“I felt like I was watching myself play a video game,” Lee said. “He rushed for 270 yards; I’ve never seen this before with anyone on my team. “It was a crazy thing for me to see.”

Lee made a big impact on the game, catching a game-clinching interception for Auburn near the goal line. Following the interception, Hunter put an exclamation point on an already impressive night with scores of 10, 11 and 46.

For weeks, Auburn was separated from teams and couldn’t find the final blow to end games. That’s exactly what Hunter was like for Auburn against Kentucky in a game he was “tired of losing.”

Peter Rauterkus covers Auburn sports AL.com. You can follow him at: @peter_rauterkus or email him [email protected]M.