We can place a stamp of approval on our program with a win this Saturday against Southern Illinois. Here are a few things we can prove by beating the Salukis:
1. We have matured as a program.
If we’re able to beat a solid Southern Illinois team from the Missouri Valley coming off a big win over a top 10, nationally recognized program like Montana in front of a record crowd, then we have matured as a program. We should no longer be expected to perform as past Liberty teams have performed.
2. Expectations are higher than ever before.
This was the case entering this season anyways after our playoff run last year, but with a win over the Salukis expectations will rise, internally and externally, to a national level.
3. We are to be taken seriously on a national scale.
This has already begun after wins last season over Appalachian State, Coastal Carolina, and James Madison. And it has continued this season with the win over Montana. Go on the road and beat a Missouri Valley team who nearly upset a Big 10 opponent, and it’s no longer a fluke.
4. We are beginning to back up our proclamation of “FBS ready” on the field.
We’ve proclaimed our FBS ready status verbally for several years. We are beginning to prove that status on the field.
5. We are a national championship contender this season.
With a win Saturday, we begin playing for not just a first round bye in the playoffs, but a top 5 ranking and a national seed.
