New Mexico State vs. Liberty Short Report | Sep 9, 2023
Williams Stadium (VA)
Lynchburg, VA
Sep 9, 2023
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Game Recap
The Liberty Flames orchestrated a commanding 33-17 victory over the New Mexico State Aggies, propelled by a stellar performance from quarterback Kaidon Salter, who accounted for four touchdowns through the air and on the ground. Despite an early spark from New Mexico State, exemplified by Jamoni Jones' swift 10-yard touchdown run, the Aggies could not keep pace with Liberty's highly efficient offense and robust defense.
Key moments defined the game, including multiple critical interceptions by Liberty's defense that quashed any hopes of an Aggie resurgence. Liberty's well-executed rushing game controlled the clock and maintained offensive momentum. Especially impactful were Kaidon Salter's diverse contributions, and defensive back Brandon Bishop's end zone interception, which epitomized Liberty's defensive tenacity. These steady and timely plays secured the Flames' decisive win, showcasing their balanced and disciplined approach.
Key Plays:
Jamoni Jones (New Mexico State)
Jamoni Jones burst through Liberty's defensive line for a 10-yard touchdown, giving New Mexico State an early lead. This play showcased NMSU's initial offensive energy and set the tone for their first quarter approach.
Kaidon Salter (Liberty)
Kaidon Salter connected with CJ Daniels on a 40-yard bomb down the right sideline, tying the game at 7-7. This precision pass was pivotal in shifting momentum back to Liberty.
Ethan Albertson (New Mexico State)
Ethan Albertson nailed a 35-yard field goal, briefly reclaiming the lead for the Aggies at 10-7. This kick highlighted Albertson's reliability in critical moments.
Kaidon Salter (Liberty)
Kaidon Salter's 3-yard touchdown run, weaving through the Aggies' defensive line, put Liberty ahead 14-10. His dual-threat capability was on full display with this play.
Diego Pavia (New Mexico State)
Diego Pavia orchestrated a 13-yard touchdown pass to Trent Hudson, narrowing the gap to 20-17. This play demonstrated Pavia's resilience and ability to respond under pressure.
Kaidon Salter (Liberty)
Kaidon Salter extended Liberty's lead with a 24-yard touchdown to Bentley Hanshaw, exploiting a breakdown in the Aggies' secondary. This score heightened the Flames' offensive dominance.
Teagen Lenderink (Liberty)
Teagen Lenderink's 22-yard field goal capped Liberty's first-half scoring, giving them a 27-17 lead. His consistency provided Liberty with critical points to maintain their advantage.
Kaidon Salter (Liberty)
Kaidon Salter's 2-yard touchdown run, following a methodical drive, increased Liberty's lead to 30-17. This drive underscored his leadership and poise in extending the Flames' control of the game.
Teagen Lenderink (Liberty)
Teagen Lenderink cemented Liberty's hold with a 29-yard field goal, pushing the lead to 33-17. His reliability underlined Liberty's disciplined approach to securing the win.
Brandon Bishop (Liberty)
Brandon Bishop delivered a crucial interception in the end zone off a Diego Pavia pass, stalling a potential New Mexico State scoring drive. This standout defensive play was a key moment in preserving Liberty's lead.
Standout Players:
Kaidon Salter (Liberty, QB)
Kaidon Salter delivered an exceptional performance with 276 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, and 43 rushing yards coupled with two rushing touchdowns. His dual-threat presence kept the New Mexico State defense off balance all game.
Quinton Cooley (Liberty, RB)
Quinton Cooley anchored the ground game for Liberty with 106 rushing yards on 20 carries. His consistent runs were instrumental in maintaining offensive momentum and clock control.
CJ Daniels (Liberty, WR)
CJ Daniels emerged as a key receiving threat, totaling 129 yards on 4 receptions. His contributions included a pair of critical touchdowns, one for 40 yards and another for 60 yards, that broke the game open for Liberty.
Teagen Lenderink (Liberty, K)
Teagen Lenderink was flawless in his special teams duties, converting both field goal attempts and an extra point. His contributions added crucial points that solidified Liberty's lead throughout the game.
Brandon Bishop (Liberty, DB)
Brandon Bishop's defensive masterstroke came in the 4th quarter with a timely interception in the end zone off a Diego Pavia pass. This pivotal play thwarted a potential Aggie comeback in a critical moment.
Diego Pavia (New Mexico State, QB)
Diego Pavia showed flashes of brilliance, amassing 150 passing yards and 65 rushing yards. However, two interceptions, including one in the end zone, dampened his overall impact on the game.
Ethan Albertson (New Mexico State, K)
Ethan Albertson made a significant contribution with a 35-yard field goal and accurately converting all extra points. His reliability provided a steady scoring presence for the Aggies.
References:
Source
New Mexico State Aggies vs. Liberty Flames - Final Score - September 09, 2023 | FOX Sports
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Source
Liberty University Flames
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New Mexico State Aggies vs. Liberty Flames Live Score and Stats - September 9, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
Team
1
2
3
4
T
New Mexico State Aggies
7
10
0
0
17
Liberty Flames
7
16
10
0
33
