Football Recap: Liberty Starts off Right with Win over Desert Edge

A Tight Game

The Liberty Patriots started their season off right with a thrilling 28-21 victory over the Desert Edge Scorpions on Friday night.

The game was close throughout, with neither team leading by more than a touchdown.

Liberty took an early lead in the first quarter, but Desert Edge came back to tie the game in the second quarter. The Patriots then regained the lead in the third quarter, and held on for the win in the fourth quarter.

Quarterback Austin Johnson led the Patriots' offense, completing 12 of 18 passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Jayden Denegal rushed for 105 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries.

Wide receiver Bryan Hopkins was Johnson's favorite target, catching four passes for 80 yards and a touchdown.

The Patriots' defense also played a key role in the win, forcing three turnovers.

Linebacker Josh Carter had an interception and a fumble recovery, and defensive back Anthony Smith also had an interception.

The Patriots will look to continue their winning ways next week when they travel to face the Centennial Bulldogs.

Key Stats

• Liberty: 28 points, 324 total yards, 13 first downs, 2 turnovers
• Desert Edge: 21 points, 280 total yards, 10 first downs, 3 turnovers

Top Performers

• Austin Johnson (Liberty): 12 of 18 passing, 180 yards, 2 TDs
• Jayden Denegal (Liberty): 20 carries, 105 yards, 1 TD
• Bryan Hopkins (Liberty): 4 catches, 80 yards, 1 TD
• Josh Carter (Liberty): 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery
• Anthony Smith (Liberty): 1 interception