Liberty University had a slow start in their first power-five game of the season against Syracuse, and came back from a 21-7 Syracuse lead, but it wasn’t enough for the Flames on the road. Syracuse won their third game over the year 24-21 over Liberty.
- Liberty’s defense came out with intensity and forced Syracuse to punt on their first drive.
- Despite Liberty’s bullrush down the field, they were forced to kick a 36-field goal, but kicker Alex Barbir missed it wide left for the Flames to end their first drive of the game.
- The Flames’ second drive opens up with flair, as they attempt a trick play for wide receiver C.J. Daniels to complete a 13-yard pass to quarterback Malik Willis. After their immediate first down, Liberty was forced to punt.
- Syracuse opens the scoring in the game with a run up the middle with their quarterback Garrett Shrader. Syracuse leads 7-0.
- In a quick turnaround for Syracuse, Liberty was forced to punt. Syracuse drives the ball 55-yards in four plays to get their second score off a 27-yard touchdown run for running back Sean Tucker. Syracuse leads 14-0.
- Through a slow start offensively, Liberty found light at the end of the tunnel with a Willis 7-yard touchdown pass to running back Shedro Louis. Louis caught his first career touchdown for the Flames. Syracuse leads 14-7.
- The Orange looked to keep the ball on the ground and marched down the field with eight running plays on 74-yards, which ended on a touchdown by Shrader. Syracuse leads 21-7.
- After a defensive breakdown for Syracuse against Liberty, Willis connected with Daniels for a 23-yard touchdown to lessen the gap, 21-14.
- When Syracuse has been forced to throw, they have struggled to move the ball. Syracuse has 184 rushing yards, compared to their slim 77 passing yards through three quarters of football.
- Liberty’s defense has had an awakening after forcing Syracuse to punt on another drive. The Flames’ offense has taken full advantage with a 33-yard touchdown to wide receiver Demario Douglas to allow Liberty to tie the game at 21 apiece. This is Willis’ third passing touchdown on the day.
- After driving the ball down the field after getting the ball back from Syracuse, Liberty fought their way down the field, only to get stopped at Syracuse’s three yard line to cause a turnover on downs. This could have allowed Liberty to get their first lead of the game.
- Liberty’s Malik Willis fumbled the ball on a crucial drive and Syracuse recovered the ball on Liberty’s 30-yard line.
- Syracuse then reached Liberty’s 17-yard line to kick a 35-yard field goal to win the game as the clock ticked down.
Liberty will continue being on the road with their next matchup in Birmingham, Al. against University of Alabama Birmingham
