Liberty vs Middle Tennessee Picks and Prediction – 11/9/2024

The Liberty Flames (5-2, 3-2) head to Murfreesboro to take on the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (3-6, 2-3) in this conference showdown. Liberty, coming off a 31-21 loss to Jacksonville State, looks to bounce back against a Blue Raiders squad that recently edged out UTEP 20-13. This matchup will center on whether Liberty can regain momentum and if Middle Tennessee can maintain recent defensive improvements. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

Liberty’s offense is led by quarterback Kaidon Salter, who has 1,427 yards, 11 touchdowns, and three interceptions. Running back Quinton Cooley has accumulated 715 rushing yards with seven touchdowns, while Treon Sibley heads the receiving corps with 397 yards and two touchdowns. Despite solid yardage, turnovers have hampered the Flames, making ball control essential in this game. Offensively, Liberty shows promise but must execute consistently to break its losing streak.

On defense, Liberty has struggled lately, allowing 30+ points in recent games. Linebacker Joseph Carter tops the team with 51 tackles, and cornerback Dexter Ricks Jr. has two interceptions. The Flames need a tighter defensive effort, especially against Middle Tennessee's key offensive players, to secure a road victory.

Middle Tennessee’s offense, led by quarterback Nicholas Vattiato with 2,296 yards and 10 touchdowns, has shown flashes but remains inconsistent. Receiver Omari Kelly leads with 811 yards, while Jaiden Credle has added 381 rushing yards. The Blue Raiders have the potential to challenge Liberty’s defense but must avoid turnovers that have plagued them throughout the season.

Defensively, the Blue Raiders show toughness, with linebacker Parker Hughes leading at 47 tackles and John Howse IV adding two interceptions. To win, they’ll need to contain Liberty’s ground game and pressure Salter into mistakes. Middle Tennessee’s defense has been effective at times, but consistency is key if they hope to slow Liberty's potent offense.

Liberty’s offense, with Salter and Cooley, should regain rhythm against a susceptible Blue Raiders defense. Despite recent struggles, the Flames have enough firepower to overcome Middle Tennessee, provided they protect the ball. Final Score Prediction: Liberty Flames win 28-20.