By GREG MENGELT

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Josh Jefferson scored 9 points — the most among Middle Tennessee starters — as Middle Tennessee blasted Bryant College 96-48 at the Murphy Center.

Jefferson, the former New Albany star, went 4 for 8 from the field and connected on one 3-pointer in the win. He also finished with 2 rebounds, 2 steals, an assist and a blocked shot. He played just 14 minutes. All five starters’ minutes were limited.

Jefferson is second on the team in scoring at 11.7 points per game, behind only sophomore guard Eli Lawrence’s 12.3 average.

The Blue Raiders held Bryant to 35.8 percent shooting and 14.3 percent from behind the 3-point line and led 42-16 at halftime. The Middle Tennessee bench accounted for 68 points. Sophomore forward Tyler Millin led the way with 13 points.

Bryan, which got just 18 points from its starters, was led by senior Michael Cody’s 18 points off the bench.

Jefferson and the now 6-1 Blue Raiders take on in-state rival UT Martin Wednesday at 7 p.m. The game can be watched at ConferenceUSA.com.