New Mexico State vs. Liberty Short Report | Dec 1, 2023
Williams Stadium (VA)
Lynchburg, VA
Dec 1, 2023
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Game Recap
The Liberty Flames triumphed over the New Mexico State Aggies in a high-scoring Conference USA Championship game, winning 49-35. Despite a tightly contested battle, Liberty surged ahead in the fourth quarter with strong offensive and defensive plays. Key performances from Liberty's Kaidon Salter and New Mexico State's Diego Pavia underscored the dynamic clash.
Liberty set the tone with an efficient ground game, while New Mexico State countered with explosive aerial attacks. The Aggies' efforts, including a spectacular 75-yard touchdown by Jonathan Brady, kept them in the game. However, Liberty’s consistent scoring and a critical interception by Brandon Bishop sealed their victory. As Coach Hugh Freeze pointed out, 'Our guys showed immense character and resilience in the fourth quarter to pull through.' The Flames' disciplined ground game and timely defensive stops proved crucial in clinching the championship.
Key Plays:
Diego Pavia (New Mexico State Aggies)
Pavia dazzled early with a 25-yard rushing touchdown, displaying his dual-threat capability and giving the Aggies an early 7-0 lead.
Quinton Cooley (Liberty Flames)
Cooley powered through the defensive line for a 1-yard touchdown, leveling the score at 7-7 and setting the stage for Liberty's balanced offensive attack.
Ron Tiavaasue (New Mexico State Aggies)
Tiavaasue extended the Aggies’ lead by hauling in a 10-yard touchdown pass, showcasing his precise route-running and reliable hands.
Kaidon Salter (Liberty Flames)
Salter connected with Noah Frith for a 26-yard touchdown pass, pushing Liberty ahead 28-21 just before halftime.
Jonathan Brady (New Mexico State Aggies)
Brady's remarkable 75-yard touchdown reception narrowed the gap to 35-28, demonstrating his breakaway speed and game-changing potential.
Billy Lucas (Liberty Flames)
Lucas bolstered Liberty's lead with a 2-yard touchdown run, making it 42-28 and putting the game out of reach for the Aggies.
Brandon Bishop (Liberty Flames)
Bishop's crucial interception in the end zone stymied a potential Aggies' comeback, cementing Liberty’s defensive stand.
Standout Players:
Kaidon Salter (Liberty Flames, QB)
Salter was instrumental in Liberty's victory, throwing for 319 yards and 2 touchdowns, while also racking up 165 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. His dual-threat performance kept the Aggies' defense off balance throughout the game.
Diego Pavia (New Mexico State Aggies, QB)
Pavia showcased his playmaking abilities, passing for 188 yards and 3 touchdowns and adding 45 rushing yards and another score. His efforts kept New Mexico State within striking distance.
Quinton Cooley (Liberty Flames, RB)
Cooley was a force in the red zone, scoring 3 rushing touchdowns on 11 carries for 71 yards. His physical running style wore down the Aggies’ defense over the course of the game.
Jonathan Brady (New Mexico State Aggies, WR)
Brady demonstrated his big-play ability, catching 4 passes for 95 yards, including a spectacular 75-yard touchdown that significantly closed the score gap in the third quarter.
Brandon Bishop (Liberty Flames, DB)
Bishop's defensive prowess was on full display as he recorded a critical interception and contributed to key defensive stops, pivotal in preserving Liberty’s lead in the final moments.
References:
New Mexico State Aggies vs. Liberty Flames - Final Score - December 01, 2023 | FOX Sports
Source
New Mexico State Aggies vs. Liberty Flames Live Score and Stats - December 1, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
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New Mexico State Aggies vs. Liberty Flames Box Score and Stats - December 01, 2023 | FOX Sports
New Mexico State University Athletics Football History vs Liberty University
Liberty University Flames
Team
1
2
3
4
T
New Mexico State Aggies
7
14
14
0
35
Liberty Flames
7
14
14
14
49
