Liberty continued its impressive turnaround Thursday night, defeating Kennesaw State 34-6 to extend its winning streak to six games and secure bowl eligibility. The Flames controlled the matchup from the opening kickoff, using an explosive offense and a dominant defensive performance to earn a Conference USA road victory at Fifth Third Stadium.
The win improved Liberty to 6-1 overall and 3-0 in conference play, keeping the Flames tied for first place in Conference USA. Kennesaw State fell to 1-6 and remained winless in conference action after suffering its sixth consecutive loss.
Liberty Takes Control Early
The Flames established their dominance in the first quarter, scoring on their opening possession for the sixth consecutive game. Running back Kam Davis capped an 11 play, 85 yard drive with a one-yard touchdown run to give Liberty a 7-0 advantage.
Quarterback Deshawn Purdie extended the lead later in the quarter, connecting with Jaylon Coleman for a 56 yard touchdown pass. The play marked Coleman’s first career receiving touchdown and gave the Flames a 14-0 lead.
Kennesaw State managed to get on the scoreboard in the second quarter, converting a 37-yard field goal by Daniel Kinney. However, Liberty’s defense prevented the Owls from reaching the end zone, sending the Flames into halftime with a 14-3 advantage.
Coleman and the Defense Lead the Way
Liberty widened the gap in the third quarter after linebacker Derrell Farrar recorded his first career interception. The turnover set up a 30 yard field goal by Chase Reeves.
Cornerback Ashton McShane intercepted another pass on Kennesaw State’s next possession, and Liberty capitalized when Coleman scored on a nine yard run to make it 24-3.
Reeves added a 49 yard field goal early in the fourth quarter before running back Terron Kellman scored on a two yard touchdown run. Kennesaw State added a late field goal, but the Owls never threatened to make the game competitive.
Coleman finished with 64 receiving yards, 22 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Purdie completed 10 of 19 passes for 176 yards and a touchdown without throwing an interception. Jamari Person led Liberty with 72 receiving yards.
The Flames outgained Kennesaw State 402 297 and held the ball for more than 37 minutes. Liberty’s defense also recorded two interceptions and kept the Owls out of the end zone.
Flames Turn Attention to FIU
The victory makes Liberty bowl eligible and gives head coach Jamey Chadwell’s team its first six game winning streak since the 2023 season.
Liberty will return home October 31 to face FIU, looking to extend its winning streak and maintain its position near the top of Conference USA.