CANTON, Mo. — Culver-Stockton College quarterback Liam Thornton tied a school record with six touchdown passes on Oct. 3 against Graceland University, but the Wildcats came up just short in a 51-48 loss.

Despite the record-setting offensive performance, Thornton said he was not focused on the milestone during the game. His priority was giving Culver-Stockton the best chance to win.

“During the game the record wasn’t something that was on my mind,” Thornton said. “I was just putting my best foot forward in order to help the team have a chance to win.”

Thornton’s six touchdown passes helped power the Wildcats to 48 points in a high-scoring matchup against Graceland. Although the offense found success throughout the game, Culver-Stockton ultimately fell three points short of victory.

Thornton credited his offensive line and playmakers for helping him achieve the milestone, emphasizing that the performance was a team effort rather than an individual accomplishment.

“My guys up front and the playmakers deserve all the credit,” Thornton said. “Without them we wouldn’t have been able to do the things we did as an offense.”

The Wildcats entered the matchup with confidence in their offensive talent. Thornton said that belief helped the team play quickly and confidently, regardless of the circumstances on the field.

“Going into the game we were confident that we had the better playmakers,” Thornton said. “This allowed us to play confident and fast no matter the situation.”

Tying a school record is a significant accomplishment for Thornton, but he remained humble when reflecting on the performance. He recognized the role his teammates and coaches played in helping him reach the milestone.

“This is a nice accomplishment to have,” Thornton said. “I am just proud of my teammates and coaches who were able to make this possible.”

Despite the disappointing result against Graceland, Thornton believes the offensive production can provide a confidence boost as the Wildcats prepare for homecoming and the remainder of the season.

“This was definitely a confidence boost for the entire offense after putting up 48 points,” Thornton said. “This will give us a little momentum heading into homecoming to continue get better every week and finish the year strong!”

Although the Wildcats were unable to come away with the victory, Thornton’s six touchdown passes gave Culver-Stockton a historic offensive performance to build on. The team will look to carry that confidence forward, improve each week and finish the season strong.