MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — In a compelling matchup on Saturday, Kaidon Salter showcased his skills by throwing two touchdown passes and scoring another on the ground, leading Liberty to a 37-17 victory over Middle Tennessee State. This win not only gave Liberty a much-needed boost, ending a two-game losing streak, but also ensured they secured bowl eligibility for the season.

The Blue Raiders drew first blood when Nicholas Vattiato connected with Hayes Sutton on a 6-yard touchdown pass. However, the Flames quickly responded as Salter demonstrated his versatility with a 41-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, leveling the game. Liberty then exploded in the second quarter, adding three more touchdowns and establishing a commanding 27-7 lead by halftime.

Highlights from the second quarter included a 4-yard touchdown run from Quinton Cooley, followed by Julian Gray sprinting for a 41-yard TD. Salter capped off the first half by completing a 4-yard pass to Jacob Jenkins, further solidifying their advantage.

Salter ended the game with impressive numbers, passing for 154 yards and adding 94 rushing yards. His teammate, Cooley, also made significant contributions with a total of 136 yards on 24 carries, reaching the end zone once. For the Blue Raiders, Vattiato put up a solid performance as well, throwing for 263 yards and two touchdowns amidst the defeat.