Liberty Falls Short in Fourth-Quarter comeback Attempt at Jax state
JACKSONVILLE,Ala.- A late rally by Liberty University fell short as the Flames dropped a 31-24 decision to Jacksonville State on Saturday. The game featured a lightning delay and a combined 24 points scored in the fourth quarter, but ultimately Liberty was unable to overcome a double-digit deficit.
The loss marks the second consecutive road game for Liberty to start the season. Despite the setback, the Flames demonstrated resilience, twice pulling within a touchdown of Jax State in the final period. Though, two late sacks by the Gamecocks defence stifled Liberty’s final drive, securing the victory for the home team.
Jax State initially took a 7-0 lead before Liberty answered with a scoring drive capped by a long reception from Asko, his longest career reception, and a new career-long streak down the sidelines for Gray, tying the game at 7-7 at the 4:09 mark. The Gamecocks regained the lead in the second quarter following Vasko’s second turnover of the game, an interception, resulting in an 11-yard rushing touchdown by Cam Cook at 12:35.
A whether delay halted play with 7:53 remaining in the second quarter, resuming after an hour and 21-minute delay.Following the resumption, both teams exchanged field goals, giving Jax state a 17-10 halftime advantage. Garrison Rippa connected on a 50-yarder, while Jay Billingsley made a 35-yarder for Liberty as the frist half expired.
Jax State extended its lead in the third quarter with another rushing touchdown by Cook, completing an 83-yard drive and pushing the score to 24-10 at 7:13.
Liberty’s fourth-quarter surge included significant plays from Dicken’s 52-yard run and Lee’s 62-yard reception. However, Jax State responded with a 24-yard field goal by Rippa to maintain a 10-point lead. Despite reaching midfield on their final possession,the Flames where unable to find the end zone.
Looking Ahead:
Liberty will continue its road trip next week, traveling to Bowling Green, Ohio, to face MAC opponent Bowling Green on Saturday, sept. 13,2025. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. (EST) and will be broadcast on ESPN+. The two programs have met twice previously, with the home team winning each contest. Bowling Green defeated liberty 62-3 in 2023, while Liberty, under head coach Jamey Chadwell, won their inaugural matchup 34-24 in 2023. The game can also be heard on LFSN Radio (flagship Station: The Journey 88.3 FM Lynchburg).
