The Flames returned to Williams Stadium after two weeks in New Mexico, and Liberty had a very nice win against a very good Troy football program. It was Liberty’s defense that answered the bell following several tough performances to start the season. The Flames held Troy to 293 total offensive yards, the first time Liberty has held an opponent under 300 since November 2016 against Presbyterian. The defense also recorded 5 sacks and 3 turnovers.
Throughout every game, there are several moments or plays that go unnoticed, or could be overlooked. Still, they play a huge role in the eventual outcome.
Let’s look at five plays that changed the direction of this game:
Buckshot finds redshirt-freshman Khaleb Coleman for an early touchdown – With both offenses struggling throughout the first quarter, Liberty had fallen behind 7-0 at the start of the 2nd quarter. Liberty converted a 3rd down and 4th down play on the drive that ended in a 29 yard touchdown pass from Buckshot to Coleman who was filling in for top receiver AGG as he missed the game with mono.
Farrow with big gain sets Flames up – After Troy responded with a field goal to regain the lead at 10-7, the Flames responded with a score of their own. Peytton Pickett’s touchdown and the scoring drive was set up by a big completion to B.J. Farrow that went for 34 yards and moved the Flames into the red zone.
Wilson with an interception near the goal line ends Troy drive – The Troy offense was beginning to find some rhythm, having scored on 3 of 4 drives to make it a 14-13 game midway through the 3rd quarter. After picking up one first down into Liberty territory, Sawyer Smith looked to find his receiver inside the 5 yard line. The receiver was initially open, but Bejour Wilson broke off his man to jump in front of Smith’s pass for the interception. Wilson returned the ball 42 yards.
Benton with a crucial pass deflection – Liberty safety Elijah Benton was able to break up a pass in the end zone on 3rd and goal in the 4th quarter. The Trojans were looking to take a 20-14 lead, but were forced to settle for a field goal once again.
Ogbeifun picks up first down to keep game winning drive alive – The Flames’ game winning drive almost wasn’t. On a first and 10 play, Buckshot was unable to get rid of the ball and took a 13 yard sack. Facing a tough 2nd and 23, Hickson picked up 12 yards to bring up a manageable 3rd down. Buckshot was able to connect with tight end Fidel Ogbeifun for 27 yards to pick up the first down. We all know how the rest of that drive ended – as Buckshot found Farrow for a 9 yard touchdown pass to give the Flames’ the lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
