Liberty (4-3, 0-0) opens conference play at home this Saturday at 3:30 against Gardner-Webb (4-3, 0-0). The Flames lead the all-time series with the Runnin’ Bulldogs, 11-8-1, and have won the past 7 meetings.
Why Gardner-Webb can win this game
The Runnin’ Bulldogs have a potent passing attack led by quarterback Lucas Beatty & receiver Kenny Cook. In their last game, Beatty threw for 430 yards and 5 touchdowns, while Cook had 12 receptions for 251 yards and 2 touchdowns. Combine this with Liberty having one of the worst passing defenses in the Big South, and GWU should be able to move the ball effectively.
Gardner-Webb’s Juanne Blount, who leads the Runnin’ Bulldogs with 233 rushing yards, is back practicing with the team this week after missing some time due to injury. Head coach Carroll McCray calls Blount day to day. Signs point to Blount dressing on Saturday.
They have won 4 of their past 5 games including wins over Wofford and Charlotte. The Bulldogs will be confident, and will come into Williams Stadium expecting to win.
Why Liberty can win this game
Dante Shells broke out against App State with 164 receiving yards
While Liberty’s pass defense has been suspect much of the season, the Flames’ defensive line should be able to help the secondary against GWU. The Runnin’ Bulldogs have allowed a staggering 27 sacks in 7 games, easily the most allowed in the Big South. The Flames have sacked opposing quarterbacks about 2 times per game.
As good as Gardner-Webb has been passing, they’ve been just as bad at running the ball. GWU is averaging less than 90 rushing yards per game. This should allow Coach Wimberly and the defense to focus on the pass, and slow down Beatty & company.
GWU has struggled in the red zone this season, primarily due to their field goal kicking woes. Their kickers are just 7-of-15 on field goals inside 30 yards.
X-Factor for this game
The 4th quarter.
Gardner-Webb has struggled in the 4th quarter this season, being outscored 53-27 in the final 15 minutes. Liberty has excelled as the game winds down, outscoring their opponents 58-53 in the 4th quarter.
