AUBURN, Ala., Nov. 13 (UPI) -- Cam Newton tossed four touchdown passes, overcoming an eligibility controversy to lift No. 2 Auburn to a 49-31 victory over Georgia.
A reported NCAA probe into allegations that Newton and his father requested under-the-table cash payments from college recruiters last year had put Newton's start against Southeast Conference rival Georgia in doubt.
But school officials allowed the Heisman Trophy candidate to play, and Newton responded with a big game, shaking off an early interception to compile 148 yards and two scores through the air on 12-of-15 throws for Auburn (11-0, 7-0 SEC).
Onterio McCalebb added three rushing touchdowns as the Tigers wrapped up the SEC West Division.
The Bulldogs (5-6, 3-5) got 273 yards and three touchdowns on 15-of-28 passing from Aaron Murray in the loss.
