UTEP vs. Middle Tennessee Short Report | Nov 18, 2023
Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium
Murfreesboro, TN
Nov 18, 2023
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Game Recap
Middle Tennessee secured a dramatic 34-30 victory over UTEP, clinching the game with critical plays in the closing minutes. Frank Peasant provided an early spark for the Blue Raiders with a 9-yard touchdown run. Holden Willis followed up with a sensational 62-yard touchdown catch, showcasing the dynamic passing game led by Nicholas Vattiato.
UTEP fought valiantly, highlighted by a spectacular 54-yard punt return for a touchdown by Torrance Burgess Jr. and a commanding performance from Cade McConnell, who amassed 364 passing yards and two touchdowns. However, it was a pivotal interception by Marvae Myers in the fourth quarter that sealed the triumph for Middle Tennessee, despite UTEP’s relentless pursuit. The Blue Raiders' efficiency on crucial downs and a balanced offensive attack ultimately secured their edge in this electrifying contest.
Key Plays:
Frank Peasant (Middle Tennessee)
Frank Peasant opened the scoring with a powerful 9-yard touchdown run. This early burst set the tone for Middle Tennessee’s high-octane offense.
Kelly Akharaiyi (UTEP)
Kelly Akharaiyi tied the game at 7 with an 18-yard touchdown catch, capping off a swift Miners drive that answered Middle Tennessee's early score.
Holden Willis (Middle Tennessee)
Holden Willis made an explosive 62-yard touchdown reception, reclaiming the lead for the Blue Raiders and showcasing Nicholas Vattiato's deep-ball accuracy.
Torrance Burgess Jr. (UTEP)
Torrance Burgess Jr. electrified with a 54-yard punt return touchdown, leveling the score and injecting momentum into the Miners' side.
Holden Willis (Middle Tennessee)
Holden Willis caught a pivotal 17-yard touchdown pass, pushing Middle Tennessee ahead once more in a closely contested first half.
Zeke Rankin (Middle Tennessee)
Zeke Rankin's 38-yard field goal extended Middle Tennessee's lead, providing a critical buffer in a tightly fought contest.
Deion Hankins (UTEP)
Deion Hankins punched in a 2-yard touchdown run, narrowing UTEP's deficit to three points before halftime.
Nicholas Vattiato (Middle Tennessee)
Nicholas Vattiato connected with Zack Dobson for a 56-yard touchdown, exemplifying their potent aerial attack and extending the lead to 31-24.
Oscar Moore (UTEP)
Oscar Moore's 29-yard interception return placed UTEP in prime scoring position, showcasing the Miners' defensive resilience.
Kelly Akharaiyi (UTEP)
Kelly Akharaiyi's 80-yard touchdown reception provided a dramatic score for UTEP, though a missed PAT kept them trailing by four.
Marvae Myers (Middle Tennessee)
Marvae Myers' crucial interception halted a promising UTEP drive, ultimately securing the victory for the Blue Raiders.
Standout Players:
Nicholas Vattiato (Middle Tennessee, QB)
Nicholas Vattiato orchestrated the offense with precision, throwing for 242 yards and three touchdowns. His versatility was on display as he also scrambled for 92 rushing yards, keeping the UTEP defense guessing.
Kelly Akharaiyi (UTEP, WR)
Kelly Akharaiyi emerged as a critical target, hauling in six catches for 138 yards and two touchdowns. His 80-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter showcased his explosive playmaking ability, though it ultimately wasn't enough for a comeback.
Frank Peasant (Middle Tennessee, RB)
Frank Peasant provided steady contributions on the ground, including a crucial 9-yard touchdown run to kickstart the scoring for Middle Tennessee.
Torrance Burgess Jr. (UTEP, RB)
Torrance Burgess Jr.'s 54-yard punt return for a touchdown was a pivotal moment, leveling the game and boosting UTEP's morale in the second quarter.
Oscar Moore (UTEP, S)
Oscar Moore was a defensive force, recording eight tackles and a key interception with a 29-yard return, setting up UTEP's offense in prime field position.
Marvae Myers (Middle Tennessee, DB)
Marvae Myers’ timely interception in the fourth quarter was a game-defining play, stymieing a crucial UTEP drive and preserving Middle Tennessee's slim lead.
Team
1
2
3
4
T
UTEP Miners
7
14
3
6
30
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders
14
10
7
3
34
