While it is later in the season than we’ve grown accustomed to, Liberty has finally reached their bye week. This year has offered exciting highs and disappointing lows for the Flames. They have demolished weaker opponents, kept pace with an ACC squad, dropped an easy win, made SEC fans nervous, and…well…made Liberty fans nervous throughout. The Flames are still searching for a signature win though and they will have that opportunity next Saturday, but don’t let us get ahead of ourselves. Let’s celebrate players who have stood out for the Flames thus far.
Offensive Player of the Season: WR DeMario Douglas
The Flames have a number of homerun threats split out wide on Saturdays. At any moment, these receivers can sneak behind safeties and snag a deep ball for the long TD. WR DeMario Douglas has been an issue for opposing teams every week and constantly busts the top open against defenses. On the season, the redshirt freshman has 618 receiving yards which equals out to 68.7 yards a game, both team highs. He has hauled in five TDs and has Liberty’s longest reception of the season which was 70 yards. Douglas is rated the highest G5 receiver through 10 weeks by PFF.
Defensive Player of the Season: LB Storey Jackson
Let us tell you a little Storey about a man named Jackson. The Kansas City native has made quite a home here in Lynchburg since his arrival in the summer. His performance over the last 10 games has been nothing short of impressive, leading the Flames in almost in every defensive category. He has amassed 72 total tackles, 24 more than the next leading tackler. Jackson has accounted for 9.5 tackles for loss and 5.0 sacks, both team highs. He also adds an interception and five QB hurries. It is evident Jackson will go down as one of the most impactful transfers Liberty has ever acquired.
MVP: QB Malik Willis
Speaking of vital transfers, let’s talk about Liberty’s most valuable player so far for the 2021 season. Undoubtedly, QB Malik Willis earns this honor. While we have seen some miscues, Willis has carried the offense throughout the season due to his playmaking ability, scrambling, and homerun balls. On the year, Malik has completed 156 passes for 2,159 yards and 21 TDs. Willis also leads the Flames in rushing with 153 attempts for 755 net yards, averaging over 75 yards a game. He also adds 10 more TDs on the ground making him the first ever Liberty player to account for at least 30 total touchdowns in back-to-back seasons. Willis will be a fun player to watch at the next level as many NFL teams have move toward QBs with Malik’s skill set. Until then, let’s savor every play with him.
