MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Ventrell Jenkins scooped up a fumble and barreled his 285-pound frame 56 yards for the go-ahead touchdown, helping Kentucky win a program-best third straight bowl game with a 25-19 victory over East Carolina on Friday in the Liberty Bowl.

Kentucky (7-6) never led until Myron Pryor forced a fumble with under 5 minutes left while East Carolina (9-5) was driving. In the mad scramble for the loose ball, Jenkins came up with it and rumbled down the right sideline untouched.

Now, coach Rich Brooks has accomplished something even the legendary Bear Bryant couldn't at Kentucky: end three straight postseasons with a win. The Wildcats won the last two Music City Bowls behind former quarterback Andre Woodson.

East Carolina failed in its attempt to win a third game this season against a BCS conference team. It had already defeated West Virginia and Virginia Tech.