Bailey leads Missouri State to first CUSA win over Middle Tennessee

Missouri State edged Middle Tennessee 22-20 on Wednesday night at Johnny Red Floyd Stadium in Murfreesboro, a win that delivered the Bears their first Conference USA victory and highlighted a promising first start for freshman quarterback Deuce Bailey.

Bailey, making his first career start, threw for 278 yards and a touchdown and added a rushing touchdown to help seal the win. Kicker Yousef Obeid provided the final points, connecting on his third field goal with 4:22 remaining in the fourth quarter to extend Missouri State's lead. Middle Tennessee marched downfield on its next possession, but Jacob Hathaway’s 50-yard field goal attempt missed wide left, and the Blue Raiders could not complete a late comeback.

The game featured several standout individual performances. Middle Tennessee quarterback Nicholas Vattiato completed 30 of 42 passes for 267 yards and two touchdowns. Receiver Camron Lacy had six catches for 114 yards and two scores, including a 52-yard touchdown that put the Blue Raiders ahead early. Running back Jekail Middlebrook finished with 93 rushing yards. For Missouri State, Ronnel Johnson hauled in a 20-yard touchdown reception capping a 10-play, 79-yard drive...