Liberty is able to bounce back following two heartbreaking losses as they defeat Gardner-Webb 24-0 to improve to 4-4 overall and 1-1 in the Big South. Here are a few quick hit notes following the win:
Offense
- Liberty’s offense opened up the playbook a bit this afternoon as we saw several playaction passes out of the shotgun that resulted in big gains to tight end Brandon Apon. We also saw a Des Rice halfback pass that went for a touchdown to Darrin Peterson.
- The Flames were solid and steady throughout with a balanced attack.
- Woodrum finished 18/31 for 199 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception.
- Des Rice gained 74 yards on the ground.
- Darrin Peterson once again led the way for the Flames with 6 catches for 69 yards and 1 touchdown.
- Gabe Henderson added 3 catches for 63 yards.
Defense
- The Flames’ defense gets their first shutout since October 2011 when they beat Kentucky Wesleyan 57-0. It’s Liberty’s first shutout of a Division I opponent since 2008 and first road shutout since November 17, 2007 when they beat Gardner-Webb 31-0 to end the season.
- Liberty’s defensive line was dominant throughout. The Flames had 6 sacks and 12 tackles for a loss.
- Nick Sigmon led the team with 4 tackles for a loss. Toby Onyechi, Cory Freeman, and Erwin Dessources all had 2 tackles for a loss each.
- The Runnin’ Bulldogs were unable to do much running as they were held to 20 rushing yards on 28 carries.
Other
- Gardner-Webb came into the game leading the country in time of possession, but Liberty dominated possession maintaining the ball for nearly 33 minutes.
- John Lunsford successfully nailed a 52 yard field, tied for his career long.
- This is Liberty’s best road win under Turner Gill.
