MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (AP) — Carlos Lopez kicked three field goals and Kevin Byard returned an interception 77 yards for the game-winning touchdown as Middle Tennessee took down Troy 24-21 Saturday in a Sun Belt Conference game.
Lopez converted field goals of 37, 26, and 21 yards. His 26-yarder put Middle Tennessee (8-3, 6-1) ahead 13-7 at halftime while his 21-yarder helped the Blue Raiders retake the lead, 16-14, late in the third quarter.
Troy (5-7, 3-5) reclaimed the lead, 21-16, by taking advantage of a Reggie Whatley fumble and driving 56 yards for the score. Deon Anthony capped the drive with his 6-yard touchdown run.
Troy forced another turnover on Middle Tennessee’s next possession, intercepting Cameron Deen and returning it to the Blue Raiders 47, but Byard made his game-winning interception return six plays later to seal the win.
