Little was known about new Liberty starting quarterback Malik Willis prior to the 2020 season.
Sure, he had transferred from Auburn and the big spotlight the SEC brings, but in two seasons he had only attempted 14 passes and had 28 rushing attempts, all in relief roles for the Tigers.
That all began to change two weeks ago when he took the field for the Flames at Western Kentucky on ESPNU.
Willis led Liberty to an upset win over one of the Conference USA preseason favorites while rushing for 168 yards and 3 touchdowns while throwing for another 133 yards.
He continued that trend in week two when the Flames defeated FIU. Against the Panthers, Willis completed 24 of 30 passes for 285 yards and 2 touchdowns while adding 85 yards on the ground.
In the two games, he has completed 37 of 51 passes (72.5%) for 418 yards and 2 touchdowns while running for another 253 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Through two games, Willis leads the nation in rushing yards by a quarterback, but he’s proven that he’s not just a running signal caller. He is a true dual threat. He ranks 8th nationally in total offense with 335.5 yards per game and 9th nationally by completing 72.5% of his passes.
Willis also ranks in the top 35 nationally in all-purpose yards, passing yards, passing efficiency, points, points per game, and yards per pass attempt.
He has put up all those numbers despite injuring his left elbow late in the win over FIU. Willis is currently listed as day to day this week as Liberty prepares to face North Alabama on Saturday.
