Lynchburg, VA – The University of Maine football fell in their season opener to FBS opponent Liberty on week one, 28-7.

Sincere Baines put Maine on the board first in the second quarter as he took his second carry as a Black Bear 77 yards to the end zone to kick off the second drive of the game for the offense. The rush was a career-long for Baines, surpassing his previous mark of a 69-yard rush.

Liberty scored with 7 seconds remaining in the first half to tie up the contest at 7-7 on a receiving touchdown by Reese Smith.

Baines carried the ball four times in the first half, totaling 81 yards.

Carter Peevy threw for 80 yards in the first half, completing 9-of-15 throws.

Scott Woods led the way with 3 catches for 21 yards.

Baines eclipsed the 100-yard mark on the first drive of the second half as he broke off a 26-yard run up the middle.

The Black Bears shutdown a drive in the late third quarter/early fourth quarter as Jake Kucera broke up a pass in the end zone while Ta'Kai Chisolm delivered a QB hurry.

Liberty broke the tie with a little over 10 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter on a receiving touchdown by Evan Dickens.

Liberty scored their third touchdown on a receiving touchdown by Donte Lee Jr. with 4:33 remaining in the fourth quarter.

Liberty capped off their scoring on a rushing touchdown by Ethan Vasko.

Notes:

• Baines's 77-yard score was the longest of his collegiate career, his first DI touchdown and first as a Black Bear.
• Liberty out gained Maine, 391-316.
• Maine trailed in rushing by only 10 yards, 194-184.
• Liberty won the turnover battle 2-0.

-UMaine-