Offense: A
Des Rice led the Flames with 97 yards rushing
Last week they got it done with the pass. This week, the running game exploded, as Liberty gained 330 of their 431 yards of offense on the ground and scored all 5 of their touchdowns via the run. The fact that the Flames accomplished this without the injured Aldreakis Allen makes their performance even more impressive.
Defense: A
Liberty was again dominant on defense, holding Morgan State to only 171 yards. The only touchdown they allowed came in garbage time late in the 4th quarter, when the Flames’ backups were in the game. They didn’t force any turnovers, but still were able to get the job done against a team they were expected to beat.
Special Teams: B
Liberty was solid on special teams, but didn’t have too many plays that stood out, other than Walt Aikens’ 43 yard return on the 2nd half kickoff. The only other play worth noting came in the 2nd quarter, when Miles Hunter was whistled for an illegal block on a kick return, forcing the Flames to start on their own 4-yard line. In a closer game, a mistake like that could be very costly.
Overall: A
Liberty took care of business and controlled the game from the start, showing discipline by not playing down to their competition. Up next, a real test in Richmond.
You have to note Josh Woodrum’s INT, at least. That could have been a pick six against a better opponent.
Much of LU’s success so far (as compared to last year at this time) is due to eliminating turnovers and penalities. They seem far more sound this year.
Liberty dominated an opponent they were supposed to dominate. It’s hard to tell what would happen if Liberty tried passing it more. Woodrum had average stats and seemed pedestrian in his limited time.