Liberty’s 2014 football season came to an end over the weekend with their loss to #6 Villanova. It was a season of ups and downs, but will go into the record books as the most successful season in program history. As we try to put into words all the season meant, here’s a look back at some of the great moments and top performances from the gridiron this season:
Rookie of the Year: Stephon Masha
There were several freshmen or redshirt freshmen this could have gone to including A.J. James, Trey Turner, or Todd Macon, but the redshirt freshman from Austell, Georgia gets the nod. Not only did he display his athletic ability in trick plays throughout the early part of the season, he proved he could lead the team to a conference championship as the starting quarterback. The coaching staff will have to find ways to get Masha on the field in 2015.
Most improved player: D.J. Abnar
It was the biggest question mark entering the season, how would the small frame of D.J. Abnar hold up as an every down back? Well, he answered the call and ended the season as a 1st-team all conference performer. Abnar rushed for over 1200 yards and had 15 touchdowns while being a workhorse back. He routinely carried the ball 20+ times during games and even went over 30 on multiple occasions.
Mr. Clutch: John Lunsford
He could win this award solely for his 60-yard field goal against Richmond as time expired to send the game into overtime, but he delivered all season. Lunsford led the team in scoring with 100 points while going 43/44 on PATs and 19/24 on field goals. He owned the 3 longest made field goals in all of FCS football this season and was 5/6 on attempts greater than 50 yards. Lunsford should own every Liberty kicking record by the time his career has finished.
Best Performance: D.J. Abnar vs Monmouth
He single handedly carried the Flames to the victory with 39 carries for 164 yards and 2 touchdowns. His 39 carries were the most by a Liberty running back since Euguene Goodman had 40 carries in 2003.
Honorable mention to John Lunsford vs Richmond.
The Drive heard ’round the world: 4th Q vs JMU
Liberty was losing 21-20 with 13:54 left in the game. The Flames’ drive was starting at their own 15 yard line. 17 plays, 85 yards, and 11 minutes later, Liberty had taken the lead and would hold on to win their first ever playoff game.
The Gamebreaker: Darrin Peterson
He set single-season school records for receptions and receiving yards this year with 85 catches for 1,379 yards. He routinely made plays that had us turning our heads in disbelief. Can’t wait to see what lies ahead for the junior from Alabama.
The Star: Josh Woodrum
He is the unquestioned team leader. There were times during the season that he put the team on his back and willed them to victory. What he means to the team can’t be defined by statistics.
Play of the Year: Lunsford’s 60-yard field goal
2nd thought Play of the Year: Hagen’s interception vs App St
start video at 31 seconds
