Jacksonville State defeats Liberty 34 to 24

September 6, 2025 - JACKSONVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY, AL. - The Jacksonville State Gamecocks delivered a powerful performance last Saturday, defeating Liberty University 34–24 in a pivotal Conference USA matchup at AmFirst Stadium. With over 20,000 fans packing the stands, the Gamecocks showcased grit, discipline, and explosive playmaking in a game that could define their trajectory for the rest of the season. Coming off a narrow loss to UCF the previous week, Head Coach Charles Kelly's squad responded with urgency and poise, controlling the tempo and capitalizing on key moments to secure their first conference win of the year.

The game opened with Jacksonville State setting the tone early. Running back Andrew Paul punched in a 3-yard touchdown to give the Gamecocks a 7–0 lead, energizing the home crowd. Liberty answered quickly with a 72-yard strike from quarterback Ethan Vasko to wide receiver Julian Gray, tying the game and signaling that the Flames weren't going down quietly. But Jacksonville State's ground game proved relentless. Cam Cook, the Gamecocks' standout tailback, broke through Liberty's defensive front with an 11-yard touchdown run, followed by a booming 50-yard field goal from kicker Garrison Rippa. By halftime, Jacksonville State held a 17–10 lead, having controlled possession and limited mistakes while keeping Liberty's high-powered offense in check.

Cam Cook's performance was nothing short of dominant. The junior running back carried the ball 29 times for 195 yards and two touchdowns, consistently finding seams and dragging defenders for extra yardage. His ability to grind out tough runs and break into the open field gave Jacksonville State a crucial edge in time of possession and field position. Cook's second touchdown came in the third quarter, extending the lead to 24–10 and putting Liberty on its heels. Yet the Flames weren't finished. Liberty's Evan Dickens broke free for a 52-yard touchdown run, narrowing the gap to 24–17 and shifting momentum back toward the visitors.

In the fourth quarter, Jacksonville State's composure was tested. Liberty continued to press, and after a 3-yard touchdown run by Gamecock quarterback Gavin Wimsatt, the Flames responded with a 62-yard touchdown pass to Donte Lee Jr., cutting the lead to 31–24. With the game hanging in the balance, Jacksonville State leaned on its special teams and defense. Rippa added another field goal, and the defense held firm, forcing a late turnover that sealed the victory. Despite being outgained in total yardage-Liberty posted 534 yards to Jacksonville State's 395-the Gamecocks committed zero turnovers and executed efficiently in the red zone.

Coach Charles Kelly praised his team's resilience and discipline, noting that the win was a product of preparation and trust. "We knew Liberty would bring firepower," Kelly said. "But our guys stayed disciplined and executed when it mattered most." The victory not only boosts Jacksonville State's record to 1–1 overall and 1–0 in conference play, but also sends a message to the rest of Conference USA: the Gamecocks are ready to contend.

Looking ahead, Jacksonville State faces Georgia Southern on the road next Saturday, a matchup that will test their ability to carry momentum into hostile territory. With Cam Cook emerging as one of the conference's top rushers and the defense showing flashes of dominance, the Gamecocks have the tools to build a winning streak. For fans in Alabama and across the region, Saturday's win was more than just a conference opener-it was a showcase of heart, strategy, and the kind of football that brings communities together.