A few quick hit notes following Liberty’s 30-24 win over Western Kentucky:

  • Impressive performance from the Flames who were 14.5 point underdogs coming into this game. The Liberty offense, primarily Malik Willis and the rushing attack, paved the way in this one. Liberty ran for 354 yards on the afternoon. Liberty outgained the Hilltoppers, 487-291.
  • It didn’t take long for Malik Willis to prove he was worthy of being named the starter at quarterback. He extended plays and drives with his legs, while also being accurate with the pass. He provides a different offensive weapon we haven’t seen from the Flames since Mike Brown was behind center.
  • Willis finished the game 13 of 21 passing for 133 yards. He also led the team in rushing 168 yards and 3 touchdowns on 21 carries.
  • Joshua Mack finished with 100 yards on 23 carries.
  • CJ Yarbrough had an impressive day as the Flames look to replace Antonio Gandy-Golden who was a 4th round draft pick of the Washington Football team. Yarbrough had an AGG-esque one handed grab along the sideline in the first half. It was originally ruled incomplete, but after review it was overturned and ruled as a complete pass.
  • The first quarter was about as impressive a quarter as we have seen from the Flames in some time. The offense and defense both dominated, with the Flames leading 10-0 at the end of 1. Willis was impressive running and passing, while the offensive and defensive lines controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.
  • Liberty’s offense scored on every possession, except for the final one when Alex Barbir missed a 43 yard field goal that would have given the Flames a 20-10 lead going into the half.
  • As the Hilltoppers settled in, their offense began finding some room to work. After their first two drives amassing -3 yards, WKU scored on their next two possessions to stay within one score of the Flames.
  • Shedro Louis provided a nice change of pace when he was inserted into the lineup at running back in the 4th quarter. His speed will provide a nice burst to the offense, particularly late in games when defenses are tired.
  • If there’s one negative, it’s the kicking game. Hopefully Barbir and/or Stricker can figure it out as the season goes. Barbir’s 42 yard attempt that was missed looked really bad, and Freeze and the Flames decided to go for it more often than not. Barbir also missed an extra point.
  • Liberty will be back in action next Saturday, with the team’s home opener against Florida International. The Panthers have not played yet this season.