Ryan Gagliano’s 4 TDs power Middle Tennessee past Delaware 33-30 in Conference USA showdown

Murfreesboro, Tenn. (AP) — Middle Tennessee secured a 33-30 victory over Delaware in a Conference USA showdown, thanks to an impressive performance by Roman Gagliano. The quarterback completed 291 yards and threw three touchdowns, in addition to rushing for another score. Gagliano orchestrated a crucial 10-play, 93-yard drive in the fourth quarter, culminating in a 14-yard touchdown pass to Neo Clifton with just 3:06 remaining.

Earlier in the game, Middle Tennessee took the lead with a 19-16 score on the first play of the second half, as Gagliano connected with Koraun Perdue on an 80-yard touchdown. Tyler Bell led Delaware's offense, throwing for 306 yards and two touchdowns, including a 33-yard pass to Josh Humes. However, Gagliano responded with an 18-yard touchdown pass to Clifton, narrowing the gap to 30-26 with 9:57 left on the clock.

Delaware took a halftime lead of 30-26 after George Mullins intercepted Gagliano with 24 seconds left. In the second half, Bryson Graves connected with Bell for a 15-yard touchdown to extend Delaware's lead to 33-26. Clifton led Middle Tennessee's receiving corps with four catches for 64 yards and two touchdowns, while Perdue added another 103 yards and a score on four catches.