Here are a few quick hit notes following Liberty’s win over Louisiana-Monroe, 40-7, as the Flames begin the 2020 season at 4-0:

  • The Flames start the season 4-0 for the first time since 2008 and the 5th time in program history. The 2008 team began the season 6-0 before ultimately finishing 10-2 behind a talented roster that was highlighted by Rashad Jennings.
  • For the second straight week, the story of the game was Liberty’s defense. Beginning with the opening possession for the Warhawks, the Flames’ defensive line dominated at the point of attack. 8 of ULM’s 9 first half drives resulted in 3 & outs. The only possession they picked up a first down, ULM turned it over on downs after just one first down. The finished the game 1/16 on 3rd downs and had 11 three & outs.
  • ULM’s Colby Suits entered the game 5th in the country in passing yards, but the pressure really got to him. He was incomplete on his first 5 pass attempts of the game and was just 6/19 passing for 29 yards and 2 interceptions in the first half.
  • Not only did Liberty’s defense have a strong afternoon, the Flames’ special teams units were very strong. Demario Douglas had a 38 yard return to the ULM 24 yard line, setting up Liberty’s first scoring drive of the day. In the 2nd quarter, with the Warhawks forced to punt out of their own end zone, the punter fumbled the snap and Liberty’s Treon Sibley fell on it for the touchdown.
  • Early in the 3rd quarter, Sibley would get free and block the ULM punt in the end zone. Chancellor Smith fell on the ball for the score, Liberty’s second special teams touchdown on the day.
  • In the 4th quarter, Demario Douglas returned a punt 73 yards for a touchdown, the third special teams score of the day.
  • Playing for the first time since injuring his left elbow in the 4th quarter against Florida International two weeks ago, Willis had mixed results. He didn’t show any hesitation running or scrambling around, but he had difficulty connecting on deep pass attempts. The Flames’ QB finished the game 11/29 for 177 yards and 1 interception. He also led the team in rushing with 87 yards and a touchdown on 13 rush attempts.
  • Alex Barbir made a 42 yard field goal late in the first half, the longest of his career, but he would miss an extra point.
  • Liberty becomes the 2nd team to start 4-0 this season behind SMU who accomplished the feat a week ago. A couple other teams have the opportunity to move to 4-0 later today as BYU is currently 3-0. They play host to UTSA at 3:30. Clemson and Miami are both 3-0 and they face off tonight at 7:30.
  • Liberty extends its home win streak to 8 games and its overall win streak to 6. This is the first six-game winning streak Liberty has had as an FBS squad. Liberty hasn’t won 6 straight since 2011 and this is the Flames’ longest home win streak since a 10-game streak from 2009-2011.
  • The Flames improve to 5-1 all-time against Sun Belt opponents.
  • A huge test and opportunity awaits for the Flames as Liberty is set to travel to Syracuse this coming week against the Orange. Kickoff inside the Carrier Dome is scheduled for noon and will be televised on ACC Regional Networks.