Deshawan Purdie orchestrated a decisive comeback as Liberty defeated New Mexico State 30-14 on Saturday in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The Flames (8-1, 5-0 C-USA) overcame an early deficit after Trey Hedden led the Aggies on a seven-play, 75-yard opening drive that culminated in a 24-yard touchdown pass to AJ Williams III. However, Liberty’s offense found its rhythm through placekicker Chase Reeves, who kicked field goals of 35, 41, and 49 yards to flip the score to 9-7 before halftime.
Liberty’s resilient defense and Purdie’s late surge seal crucial Conference USA victory
Purdie, who finished with 252 passing yards and a touchdown, kept the Flames in control during the second half. With 21 seconds remaining in the first half, Purdie connected with Makai Jackson on a 15-yard strike to give Liberty a 16-7 lead at the break. Although Hedden narrowed the gap to 16-14 with a five-yard touchdown pass to Williams III in the fourth quarter, Liberty’s defense stifled the Aggies (3-6, 2-3 C-USA) in the third, allowing no points and setting the stage for a decisive closing drive.
The Flames sealed the victory with two late touchdowns that extended their lead to 30-14. Kam Davis broke free for a five-yard score with 10:12 remaining, followed by Peyton Jones rushing in from the one-yard line with just 1:03 left on the clock. The win extends Liberty’s Conference USA winning streak to five games, showcasing their ability to respond to early pressure and maintain offensive balance through both the air and the ground.
Source: Yahoo Sports
