The Flames won’t open summer camp for several weeks, so it’s a perfect time to start looking ahead to the teams Liberty will face during the upcoming season as they attempt to return to the FCS playoffs for the 2nd consecutive year.

First up, LU opens at home against Delaware State on September 5. Kickoff is at 7pm.

Delaware State

2014 record: 2-10, 2-6 in the MEAC.

Coach: Kenneth Carter, in his first season.

Starters returning: Seven on offense, six on defense, one on special teams.

Offensive system: West Coast.

Defensive system: Multiple.

Three significant stats last year:

  1. The Hornets were outgained by more than 150 yards of total offense per game.
  2. They were one of the worst rushing offenses in the country, ranking 114th out of 121 FCS teams with 96.7 rushing yards per game.
  3. DSU allowed over 32 points per game, one of the worst in the MEAC and all of FCS.

Key starters returning:

  • Quarterback Gilbert Rivera threw for 898 yards, 6 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
  • Leading rusher Jamaal Jackson ran for 493 yards while also adding over 200 kick return yards.
  • Cornerback Terrick Colston led the team with 4 interceptions and also added 75 tackles.

How does Delaware State match up

This is a game the Flames should win. The Hornets have had just one winning season since their playoff appearance in 2007. With the inexperience of breaking in a first-time head coach in front of 20,000 fans at a rocking Williams Stadium, Liberty’s experience should be more than enough.