Liberty vs. Western Kentucky Short Report | Oct 24, 2023
Houchens Industries–L.T. Smith Stadium
Bowling Green, KY
Oct 24, 2023
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Game Recap
The Liberty Flames overpowered the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers with a final score of 42-29 in an exhilarating offensive display. Austin Reed's early connection with Malachi Corley for a 2-yard touchdown got Western Kentucky off to a strong start, but Kaidon Salter's electrifying dual-threat capabilities turned the tide. Liberty's potent ground attack, amassing 325 rushing yards, coupled with Salter's precise passing, proved insurmountable.
The Hilltoppers found moments of brilliance, notably a 43-yard touchdown grab by Elijah Young and a spectacular 63-yard connection with River Helms. Yet, Liberty's timely responses, including a clutch 27-yard touchdown pass from Salter to Treon Sibley, kept them ahead. Despite Reed's impressive tally of four touchdown passes, Liberty's sustained offensive balance and control of the time of possession were decisive in their victory.
Key Plays:
Austin Reed (Western Kentucky)
Quarterback Austin Reed connected with wide receiver Malachi Corley for a 2-yard touchdown pass to the left, initiating the scoring for the Hilltoppers and giving them an early boost.
Kaidon Salter (Liberty)
Kaidon Salter demonstrated his agility with a 20-yard rush up the middle, tying the game and showcasing his dual-threat capability.
Kaidon Salter (Liberty)
Salter's 47-yard bomb to CJ Daniels on the right side not only gave Liberty the lead but also highlighted their explosive play ability.
Kaidon Salter (Liberty)
Salter connected with Victor Venn for a 9-yard touchdown, extending Liberty's lead and demonstrating their offensive precision.
Quinton Cooley (Liberty)
Quinton Cooley punched it in from 2 yards out, further solidifying Liberty's commanding position.
Austin Reed (Western Kentucky)
Reed found Elijah Young on a 43-yard touchdown pass to the left, providing a glimmer of hope for the Hilltoppers and showcasing Reed's strong arm.
Aaron Bedgood (Liberty)
Aaron Bedgood's 6-yard rush up the middle responded swiftly to Western Kentucky's advances, maintaining Liberty's lead.
Austin Reed (Western Kentucky)
In a dramatic turn, Reed unleashed a 63-yard touchdown pass to River Helms, cutting into Liberty's lead and showcasing his deep-ball accuracy.
Kaidon Salter (Liberty)
Salter delivered a 27-yard touchdown pass to Treon Sibley, effectively sealing the game and underscoring Liberty's dominance.
Standout Players:
Austin Reed (Western Kentucky, QB)
Austin Reed showcased his formidable arm strength, amassing 365 passing yards and 4 touchdowns. Despite throwing an interception, Reed's resilient performance kept Western Kentucky in contention.
Kaidon Salter (Liberty, QB)
Kaidon Salter's dual-threat talent shined brightly as he threw for 169 yards and 3 touchdowns while rushing for an additional 117 yards and a touchdown, orchestrating Liberty's powerful offense.
Elijah Young (Western Kentucky, RB)
Elijah Young contributed significantly with 61 rushing yards and a stunning 43-yard touchdown reception, providing a multi-dimensional threat to Liberty's defense.
Malachi Corley (Western Kentucky, WR)
Malachi Corley was instrumental for WKU, hauling in 6 catches for 62 yards and 2 touchdowns, including an essential early score.
Quinton Cooley (Liberty, RB)
Quinton Cooley's steady ground game with 76 rushing yards and a touchdown was a cornerstone of Liberty's offensive dominance.
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Liberty Flames
7
7
7
21
42
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
7
3
0
19
29
