Defense Shines in Rout of Monmouth

18,467 fans filled WIlliams Stadium

Liberty’s defensive line controlled the point of attack from the very first play and the Flames never looked back, beating future Big South member Monmouth University 45-15.

Start fast. That was the theme all week, and Liberty’s defense certainly lived up to the challenge as cornerback Kevin Fogg called the defense’s performance “phenomenal.” Following a superb punt by Grant Bowden which pinned the Hawks at their own 1 on their first possession, running back Julian Hayes was unable to penetrate the Flames front. On 3rd down, he was unable to get out of his own end zone as Liberty tackled him for a safety. Those first 3 defensive plays would set the tone for the game as Liberty’s defensive line continually made penetration into Monmouth’s backfield. Coach Turner Gill said those first 3 plays showed him “the defense was ready to play.” The Flames defense racked up 3 sacks, 5 pass deflections, 3 interceptions, and 8 tackles for a loss. And it was a whole team effort on the defensive side of the ball as no Flame recorded more than Nick Sigmon’s and Jimmy O’Grady’s 5 tackles.

Unable to score on either of their first 2 drives, Josh Woodrum and Liberty’s offense were finally able to break through prior to the close of the 1st quarter as Desmond Rice punched it in for 6 from 2 yards out. The score was set up by a 40 yard completion from Woodrum to Dante Shells which got the Flames inside the 5 yard line. Following the touchdown, the Flames tried to catch the Hawks off guard with a quick onside kick. The call backfired though as Zach Fabel was able to field the kick and return it 34 yards to the Liberty 27. One play later, Monmouth quarterback Brandon Hill was able to connect with tight end Mike McLafferty for a touchdown bringing the score to 9-6 after the failed PAT.

Flames dominated early, leading 31-6 at half

This seemed to turn the momentum early as Woodrum was intercepted just 3 plays later; however, Liberty’s defense again answered the bell forcing Monmouth into a quick 3 & out. Monmouth’s punter Eric Spillane had the ball go off the side of his foot for just a 6 yard punt setting Liberty up with terrific field position, and the Flames’ offense would deliver as Woodrum connected with Darrin Peterson for a 28 yard touchdown pass. Following a successful 2 point conversion, Liberty extended their lead to 17-6. The Flames would never look back as they led 31-6 at halftime and 45-6 going into the 4th quarter.

Darrin Peterson continued to be a bright spot for Liberty’s young receiving corp. The sophomore had his 2nd consecutive 100 yard receiving game as he finished with 3 catches for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns including an 85 yard strike from Woodrum. Describing the 85 yard touchdown, Peterson said he just “saw the ball in the air, it’s mine.” Peterson knew “from the get go (that) downfield passes were there” against Monmouth, and he continually found himself behind the Hawks’ secondary.

Quarterback Josh Woodrum finished 13/19 passing for 237 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception. Desmond Rice led the team in rushing with 50 yards on 16 carries and 1 touchdown. DJ Abnar added 38 yards on 12 carries, all of them coming in the 2nd half.

Fogg’s pick 6

Kevin Fogg finished with 2 interceptions, 1 in the end zone to keep Monmouth from scoring and the other he returned for a touchdown. With touchdowns from kick returns, punt returns, and interceptions during his career, it seems Fogg always finds his way into the end zone. “I always want to score, if I don’t score I’m disappointed” Fogg explained. Speaking of the interception he returned for a touchdown, Kevin said “it was an awesome feeling, it was what I needed after muffing the punt.”

Liberty head coach Turner Gill summarized the game by stating “I thought it was a solid performance by our football team.” Specifically referencing the 1st half defensive dominance, Gill said “I think our personnel was a little better than their personnel.”

Monmouth’s coach Kevin Callahan

One week removed from playing in front of a record crowd at Montana State, Monmouth head coach Kevin Callahan jokingly said “since I’m in Lynchburg I’m going to say (Liberty’s atmosphere) is better.” He went further: “(Liberty) has a great environment; a terrific venue for FCS football.”

Liberty plays host to 0-2 Morgan State next Saturday at 7pm while Monmouth hosts Lehigh.