Saturday’s matchup between Liberty and the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns is sure to be a test for the Flames.
Louisiana opens as 11.5-point favorites, aided by a three-headed running attack and a dual-threat quarterback who Coach Freeze compared to Malik Willis.
“I do know that there are three running backs who are as talented as any we will face this year,” Freeze said in a press conference Monday, Sept. 2.
In 2018, the three backs, Raymond Calais, Ashton Johnson, and Trey Ragas, rushed for roughly 1,000, 800 and 700 yards, respectively. Quarterback Levi Lewis completed 37-of-59 passes for 585 yards and seven touchdowns in 2018.
“Very athletic,” Freeze said of Lewis. “One of those kids that makes you scared to rush him too much because he may use his feet. Compare him a little bit to Willis, who we have. He makes you nervous when he gets out of the pocket.”
Louisiana allowed 34.6 points per game last season, one of the highest figures in FBS football. JUCO transfer Ja-Quane Nelson was brought on to bolster Billy Napier’s defense, but Napier hasn’t made any other significant defensive moves. Given Louisiana’s defensive performance in a 38-28 loss against Mississippi State, Liberty could be poised for a big offensive day.
The key for the Flames, however, will be this: contain Louisiana’s offense. A star-studded backfield with an experienced offensive line and a shifty quarterback could prove problematic for Liberty, but if the Flames offense can rebound from a disappointing week one, don’t be surprised to see Liberty escape Lafayette with a win.
