Liberty picked up their first win of the season, posting a 17-0 shutout of Norfolk State on the road yesterday. The Flames picked up an elusive out of conference road win against an in-state opponent. This game was dominated by defense, but the Josh Woodrum led Liberty offense did enough to get the job done on a hot afternoon. LU keeps their at-large playoff bid hopes alive with this early season win.
Offense- C+
The Liberty offense that was able to produce a solid run game against North Carolina never could get the rushing attack going against a stingy Norfolk State defense. The holes really just weren’t there for tailback D.J. Abnar, and the Flames’ leading rusher was held to under 40 yards. While being stymied on the ground, Liberty QB Josh Woodrum was able to get things done through the air, going 14-25 for 208 yards and a touchdown. He was very good on mid-range throws, stepping up in the pocket and delivering strikes to Darrin Peterson (4 catches, 69 yards) and TE Dexter Herman (3 catches, 40 yards). Seven different Flames caught passes from Woodrum on the game, including D.J. Abnar, who iced the game with a nice catch and score with 5:52 to go in the game. Woodrum’s deep ball accuracy still leaves something to be desired, but he clearly is a veteran who is in command of his team, and proved he has what it takes to finish off opponents late in games.
Josh Woodrum was able to come up with a big play to finish NSU off Saturday.
Defense- A-
This was a pretty dominating performance by the defensive line. The Flames registered 6 sacks, led by Chima Uzowihe who had 2.5. Liberty’s defense was paced by LB Dylan Lewellyn, who turned in an impressive 11 tackles. Norfolk State’s offense was hapless against the LU defense, and only managed 56 yards through the air. Much of the Spartans’ 215 yards of offense came on the legs of QB Terrance Ervin, who rushed for 81 yards. However, his 54 yards lost due to sacks brought his net to 21 yards. Jacob Hagen turned in another outstanding performance, coming through with two huge plays. On the Spartans’ opening drive, they appeared to be moving the ball without too much difficulty until Hagen forced a fumble inside the Flames’ red zone. That turnover led to a Liberty field goal. Later, Hagen picked off a Terrance Ervin pass that led to LU’s first touchdown. Overall, this was a very solid performance for the defense, even if it was against an offense that really is still trying to find an identity.
Special Teams- B
After a poor first kick, new kickoff specialist Shane Blanchard pulled it together. He put two kicks through the back of the end zone, and another to around the 5 yard line. Big improvement over last week, for sure. Avery Echols was perfect, hitting a 22 yard field goal, and both extra point tries on the game. Trey Turner had a very solid game punting the ball, averaging almost 41 yards with good placement and hang time. On the return game, Zac Parker generally was on fair catch duty. He performed well in that role. Despite muffing one punt, he recovered the ball and prevented a possible shift in momentum. Gabe Henderson returned the Spartans’ only kickoff, taking it 16 yards up the field. Until we see Echols asked to do a little more in terms of field goals, it is difficult to judge where the Flames stand in that regard.
Overall- B+
Strong overall performance from the Flames. Let’s be real here. The doubts have been out about Liberty’s abilities against non-conference teams on the road. More than one person was heard at the half saying “we’ve seen LU take a lead to the half before”. It is no secret, and the team knows it. However, Liberty took a BIG first step towards reversing that reputation, closing out a team that the Flames should have beaten. The defense didn’t fold in the second half, and made big plays on 3rd downs. The offense protected the ball, got past the turnover bug, and stuck the dagger in Norfolk State when they needed to. Now each game builds in importance from here on out. The playoffs start now.
I have to disagree on giving the Defense anything less than an “A”. The only thing preventing an “A+” I believe is letting Ervin scramble a little too much. Everything is spot on.