Elon Game Notes Available
11/20/2008 12:00:00 AM | Football
Elon Game Notes
Today's Game
Two of the nation's best teams will take to the field today, when Liberty and Elon battle it out at Williams Stadium in both squad's regular-season finales. The Flames are coming off a 30-10 victory over Gardner-Webb, sealing up their second straight undefeated Big South season. Last weekend, the Phoenix gave three-time defending national champion and currently No. 2 Appalachian State all the Mountaineers could handle in a 24-16 defeat at Kidd Brewer Stadium in Boone, N.C.
Coach's Corner
In just three seasons at Liberty, head coach Danny Rocco has taken the Flames from 1-10 (in 2005) to back-to-back Big South Conference championships. The third-year skipper has posted a 23-10 record since taking over the program, helping him garner Big South Coach of the Year honors in both 2006 and 2007. Last year, the Flames were 8-3 and a perfect 4-0 against Big South foes, while this year the Flames became the first 5-0 team in league history.
Along with Rocco, Pete Lembo will be completing his third regular-season at the helm of his program, as the Georgetown graduate has guided Elon to a 20-13 record. Prior to coming to Elon, Lembo served as the head coach for five seasons at Lehigh, leading the Mountain Hawks to a pair of NCAA FCS Playoff berths and two Patriot League championships.
A Familiar Foe
Not too long ago, the Flames and the Phoenix were pioneers in Big South football, battling it out for the league's first title in 2002. The Phoenix claimed victory in 2002, 56-35, at home, helping Elon post one of eight victories over 11 games against the Flames. The Phoenix have won five out of the last six meetings, with Liberty's lone victory in the recent run being a 27-17 win, closing out the 2004 campaign in Lynchburg on Nov. 20. Overall, Elon leads the series 3-2 when facing the Flames in Lynchburg.
Twice as Nice
Liberty's victory over VMI last on Nov. 8, coupled with Gardner-Webb's loss to Coastal Carolina, gave the Flames the Big South Conference title for the second straight season. Liberty is one of three programs in league history to win consecutive titles. Gardner-Webb hoisted back-to-back trophies in 2002 and 2003, while Coastal Carolina reeled off three straight championship seasons in 2004, 2005 and 2006.
Home Sweet Home
Today, the Flames welcome visiting Elon to Williams Stadium, a facility Liberty has called home for the past 20 seasons. Liberty rallied for a 37-19 victory over Towson State on Oct. 21, 1989, and has won 65 percent of its contests since, having posted a 72-38 record at the on-campus facility. Last year, the Flames went undefeated at home for the second time in program history, posting a school-record 6-0 mark, en route to their Big South title run.
Sensational Sellouts
Thanks to soaking rains in the greater Lynchburg area two days prior to last weekend's match-up with Gardner-Webb, the Flames had their "sellout" streak snapped as 10,636 saw Liberty seal up its second straight Big South title. Prior to the contest, Liberty had filled Williams Stadium beyond capacity 11 straight times. Since head coach Danny Rocco has arrived at Liberty, the Flames have filled Williams Stadium beyond capacity 13 out of 18 games. Liberty has posted a 15-3 record during those contests, averaging 13,121 fans per home game.
Attending to the National Numbers
Following its 12th-consecutive 10,000-plus crowd at Williams Stadium in the Flames' 30-10 victory over Gardner-Webb last weekend, Liberty ranks as one of the nation's elite FCS programs in terms of home attendance figures. The Flames now rank No. 4 nationally in filling stadium capacity (117.05 percent), No. 9 in total home attendance (84,275) and No. 13 in average home attendance (14,046).
Packing Them In at a Record Pace
Six straight 10,000-plus games have Liberty on the verge of breaking its all-time season attendance record at Williams Stadium. The Flames have packed in 84,275 fans into their 12,000-seat on campus facility during their six home games. The season total leaves Liberty just 865 fans away from breaking last year's record of 85,140. If the figure is surpassed, it would mark the third straight year Liberty has set a new attendance record. The 2006 season started the attendance figure climbing trend, when Liberty has 66,765 fans see six home games.
Saturday Night Lights
Under head coach Danny Rocco, the Flames are 11-3 in night games. Since 1976, Liberty has compiled a 53-65-3 record in night games.
In Broad Daylight
Under head coach Danny Rocco, the Flames are 12-7 in games played during the day. Since 1976, Liberty is 114-114-1 in day games.
Natural Versus Artificial Surfaces
Under head coach Danny Rocco, the Flames are 17-7 on artificial turf and 6-3 on natural grass. Overall, Liberty is 97-108-4 on natural grass and 77-75 on artificial turf. The Flames play their home games at Williams Stadium, which has an artificial surface, as new state-of-the-art FieldTurf was installed prior to the start of the 2006 season. Liberty has posted a 15-3 record at home since the new surface was installed.
Overtime Update
The Flames enter today's game having posted a 3-5 record in overtime games. Liberty's last overtime game came on Sept. 15, 2007, when the Flames dropped a 48-41 decision to William & Mary in double overtime in Williamsburg, Va.
Liberty has only played two of its eight overtime games away from Williams Stadium. Liberty's first extra-period game was a 34-28 road loss to Morgan State on Sept. 21, 1996. Liberty's last victory in an overtime contest came on Nov. 22, 2003, when it closed out the 2003 campaign with a 49-42 win over Hofstra.
Raising Up No. 71
Prior to the start of the Flames' contest against Tusculum on Sept. 1, 2007, Liberty ceremonially honored founder Dr. Jerry Falwell, who had passed away the previous May, by starting a new game day tradition. Members of the University Police force raised a No. 71 flag underneath the Liberty Flames flag above the South end zone, just prior to the team taking the field, bringing the 14,925 fans in attendance to their feet.
The new tradition has become a permanent part of the Flames' pregame ceremonies at all home football games. A different person/group will receive the honor of raising the flag at each game. Today's honorees are parents from Liberty's senior class, representing the family members who helped honor Liberty 26 seniors before kickoff.
This year's honorees:
Aug. 30 (North Greenville) – Jerry Falwell, Jr., LU President and Chancellor
Sept. 6 (Glenville State) – Josh McDougal, former LU cross country/track and field standout
Oct. 11 (Stony Brook) – SAAC, LU's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
Oct. 18 (Lafayette) – Representative from the Parents' Club Foundation
Oct. 25 (Charleston Southern) - Representative from Alumni Office
Nov. 15 (Gardner-Webb) - Representative from the 2007 Big South Championship team
Nov. 22 (Elon) – Parents of Liberty's senior class
Back in the Big South
Liberty is in the midst of its seventh season of competition in Big South Conference action today. Since beginning league play in 2002, Liberty has posted an 18-10 Big South record, thanks to a perfect championship seasons in 2007 (4-0) and 2008 (5-0), while posting back-to-back 3-1 records in 2003 and 2004.
Liberty series records against Big South schools since 2002
Charleston Southern 6-1
Coastal Carolina 3-3
Gardner-Webb 3-4
Stony Brook 1-0
VMI 5-1
Note: Elon was a member of the Big South in 2002 with Elon defeating Liberty.
From "Good2Great"
Liberty captured its first-ever Big South championship last year, sweeping through the conference with an unblemished 4-0 league record. Liberty was the fifth program in league history to finish a conference campaign undefeated, winning its Big South games by more than 30 points per game (47.8 average points scored to 17.0 average points allowed).
At the Top Again
For the second year in a row, the Flames were named the preseason favorites to hoist the Big South trophy at the end of the season. Liberty garnered 12 out of 13 first-place votes in the annual Big South coaches and media preseason poll and finished 19 points ahead of second-place Coastal Carolina in total votes.
Noting the Streak
Liberty had its 11-game winning streak snapped on Oct. 18 with a 35-21 loss to Patriot League contender Lafayette. Below is a breakdown of where the streak ranked on the program, conference and national scenes heading into the contest against the Leopards:
• It was the longest winning streak in program history (bettering a 10-game winning streak which spanned the 1988 and 1989 seasons)
• It was the second longest in Big South history (longest was 14-straight by Charleston Southern over the 2005 and 2006 seasons)
• It was the nation's longest active winning streak among FCS programs (ranking ahead of Sacred Heart, James Madison, San Diego and Elon, who all had won six-straight games)
Not Many in the NCAA Could Say the Same
Liberty's 11-game winning streak ranked as the longest active winning streak among FCS programs prior to its loss to Lafayette on Oct. 18. At the time of the loss, Liberty was one of six NCAA programs to own a double-digit winning streak out of 629 total NCAA programs (FBS – 120, FCS – 123, Division II – 150 and Division III – 236). The Flames were joined in the elite group by BYU (FBS, 16-straight), Tuskegee (Division II, 20-straight), Bloomsburg (Division II, 12-straight), American International (Division II, 10-straight) and Wisconsin-Whitewater (Division III, 18-straight).
Big South Barrage
Despite the Flames' 11-game winning streak coming to an end against Lafayette on Oct. 18, one streak remains alive for Liberty, as the Flames have reeled off 11-straight Big South victories dating back to the 2006 season. The last time the Flames dropped a Big South contest was on Oct. 28, when Liberty fell, 28-26, to No. 22 Coastal Carolina. The league run is the longest in Big South history, bettering Coastal Carolina's eight-game conference winning streak that spanned three seasons (11/22/03—10/29/05).
Fierce In Front of Their Own Fans
Not only did the loss to Lafayette on Oct. 18 snap the nation's longest FCS winning streak, but it also halted an 11-game home winning streak for Liberty. The successful home victory run was the longest in program history and was the second longest in the nation at the time among FCS programs. San Diego held the nation's longest FCS home winning streak at 28 games at the time of Liberty's loss.
Voters Continue To Move Flames Up
For the second straight week, Liberty's Big South victory helped the Flames climb slightly in the national FCS polls, as Liberty moved up two spots in both the FCS Coaches poll and Sports Network rankings. Liberty enters the game ranked No. 20 in the FCS Coaches poll and No. 22 in the Sports Network listing. The Flames have been ranked among the nation's Top 25 programs for 10-straight weeks, setting a program record for consecutive weeks in the national polls.
More from the Polls
Speaking of votes, Liberty Head Coach Danny Rocco and Sparky, the program's mascot, are currently in the running for two national honors. In the fan portion of the poll for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year honor, Rocco ranked second in the Division I-AA listing, as of Wednesday, while Sparky is the second leading write-in candidate in the Capital One Mascot Challenge. Voting in both fan polls opened during the first week of the year and will conclude directly following the conclusion of the regular season.
Sensational Shutouts
For the second time under head coach Danny Rocco, the Flames recorded multiple shutouts in the same season. Earlier this year, the Flames blanked Stony Brook, 33-0, in the Seawolves' first-ever Big South game. On Oct. 25, the Flames shut out Charleston Southern, 42-0, making Liberty the first-ever Big South team to shut out back-to-back opponents. The blanking was the sixth under head coach Danny Rocco and the 19th in program history.
Third and Climbing
In just three seasons, head coach Danny Rocco has moved into third place on the Flames all-time coaching ranks, as Liberty's victory over VMI last weekend was Rocco's 22nd at Liberty, moving him past Ken Karcher (21-46). Ranking ahead of Rocco are Tom Dowling with 33 wins (33-38-2) and Sam Rutigliano, who is the winningest coach in program history (67-53).
Offensive Obsession
For the eighth-straight game and the 10th time this year, the Flames surpassed the 400 total offensive yard mark against Gardner-Webb last Saturday, finishing the game with 442 total offensive yards against the Bulldogs. The yardage run currently has Liberty ranked No. 8 nationally in the statistical category, averaging 450.36 total offensive yards per game.
Keeping Your Eyes on the Skies
Those in attendance at Saturday afternoon's game are apt to see some high-flying action, as one of the nation's best aerial attacks will be pitted against a team which has frequented the skies themselves lately. Elon currently ranks No. 25 nationally, as they are averaging 248.18 passing yards per game. The Phoenix have thrown for 200 or more yards in nine out of 11 games and four times for 250-plus yards.
The Flames posted their third-highest passing total of the year last week, when Liberty's quarterbacks completed 13-of-21 passing attempts for 247 yards. Liberty has surpassed the 200-yard passing mark the last five games, throwing for two passing scores in each. The Flames currently rank No. 37 nationally by averaging 229.55 passing yards per game.
Just Off the Mark Again
For the fourth time in five games, the Flames missed surpassing the 200-yard rushing mark, as Liberty ran for 195 yards in its 20-point victory over Gardner-Webb last Saturday. Liberty currently ranks No. 11 nationally, by averaging 220.82 rushing yards per game. Since head coach Danny Rocco's arrival in 2006, Liberty has averaged 207.2 rushing yards per game and has surpassed the 200-yard plateau in 15 out of 33 games.
Senior Day Salute
Today's game will mark the final home game for 26 players, who have played a part in changing the culture of Liberty football. This talented group of seniors has turned a program, which was 1-10 during their freshman years, around into a two-time Big South championship team.
Thank you to the following players, who will be playing in their final regular-season game today: Dominic Bolden, Patrick Calvary, Ian Childress, Jay Coady, Mario Cosby, Jonathan Crawford, Zach Davis, Colin Dugan, Mike Godsil, Ryan Greiser, Kent Hicks, Nick Hursky, Rashad Jennings, Matt Lambros, Pat Parziale, Dan Pope, Corey Rasberry, Kevin Richard, Eugene Rogers, Joey Sandvig, Brock Smith, Britt Stone and Zach Terrell.
Behind the Scenes Warriors
Not only will today be the final regular-season game for 23 players who could be donning Liberty jerseys for the final time. But the battle between two Top 25 teams will also mark the final regular-season contest for several student members of the Flames support staff.
Student equipment managers Dante Bucci, Jeremy (Perkey) Clark, Matt Stanton and Pete Sundheim; student video assistant David McDaniel; student assistant athletic trainers Zach Burke, Ben Galley, Erica Fairfax and Justin Keith – thank you for your faithful years of service to the Liberty football program.
Best of the Best
The Liberty vs. Elon game, being played today at Williams Stadium, is one of five match-ups across the FCS nation pitting two Top 25 programs against each other. The last time two nationally ranked teams faced off against each other in Lynchburg was on Nov. 15, 1997, when No. 21 Hofstra upended No. 19 Liberty, 40-27. The Flames dropped a pair of games to nationally ranked teams at home that year, as they also lost to No. 25 Hampton, 33-27, in overtime, marking the team's lone setbacks during its 9-2 record-setting campaign.
Nine Is Really Nice
Speaking of the 1997 season, the 2008 version of the Flames matched the 1997 squad and one other on Saturday when Liberty defeated Gardner-Webb, 30-10, to pick up their ninth win of the season. Only three teams in program history have reached the nine-win plateau, as Liberty also did so in 1997 with a 9-2 record and in 1979 with a 9-1-1 mark.
Sweeter the Second Time Around
Liberty won its Big South record 11th-consecutive game last Saturday, defeating Gardner-Webb, 30-10, to cap off its second straight Big South title and a 5-0 season. The Flames are the third program in league history to win consecutive Big South championships and the second to do so with unblemished records. Gardner-Webb also did so in claiming the league's first two titles in 2002 and 2003.
Danny Remains Defense
The Flames held Charleston Southern to 191 total offensive yards on Oct. 25, helping guide Liberty to a 42-0 shutout victory. The figure marked a new season low for a Liberty opponent and was the third fewest yards allowed since head coach Danny Rocco took over the team in 2006. Liberty currently ranks No. 54 nationally in total defense, allowing an average of 340.82 total offensive yards per game.
Record Book Review
Liberty enters its match-up with Southern Conference foe Elon on the verge of setting a new team rushing record. The Flames, which rank No. 11 nationally in rushing yards per game (220.82), need 186 yards to surpass the 2003 squad, who ran for a program-best 2,614 yards. The Flames also need three more rushing touchdowns to tie the 1979 team, who found the end zone 31 times during their 9-1-1 season.
Liberty has already set a new record for total offensive yards (4,954), surpassing the 1994 team who finished the year with 4,856 yards. The Flames' current season averages in rushing yards per game, total offensive yards per game (441.5) and passing completion percentage (64.4) currently ranks ahead of the school record in each category.
A Decisive Number
The Flames' prolific offense is starting to catch the eye of the nation, as Liberty ranks No. 15 in scoring offense (34.36 points per game). The 30-point mark seems to be the key number for a Flames victory, as Liberty is 19-2 under head coach Danny Rocco when Liberty scores more than 30 points in a game. The Flames are 4-8 under Rocco when Liberty fails to reach the 30-point threshold.
Points a Plenty under Rocco
In eight out of 11 games this year, the Flames have scored 30 or more points, doing so again in a 30-10 victory over Gardner-Webb last weekend. Liberty currently ranks No. 15 nationally in scoring offense, as the Flames are averaging 34.36 points per game. Last year, the Flames were No. 3 in scoring offense, averaging a program and Big South-record 42.6 points per game. Since head coach Danny Rocco took over the program in 2006, Liberty has averaged 33.4 points scored per game, and Liberty is 19-2 in contests in which the Flames roll up 30 or more points on the scoreboard.
Don't Forget About the "D"
Despite Liberty's gaudy offensive numbers over the past two-plus seasons, the Flames' defense has played a significant factor in the team's success, bringing a smile to head coach Danny Rocco's face, as he is a 20-plus year defensive coaching veteran. Since 2006, Liberty has held its opponents to an average of 19.1 points per game, meaning Liberty is outscoring its opponents by more than two touchdowns per game (an average of 14.3 points per game) over the span.
Beating Them at the Own Game
The Flames rushed for 195 yards against Gardner-Webb last week, nearly doubling the Bulldogs season average they have been allowing to opponents in 2008. Gardner-Webb came into the game allowing an average of 110.6 rushing yards per game, having held seven of its first 10 opponents under the century mark.
Elon enters the game No. 52 nationally in rushing defense, allowing 139.45 rushing yards per game, including 202 yards to No. 2 Appalachian State last weekend. However, the Phoenix have surrendered the 22nd fewest rushing touchdowns in FCS, allowing only 11 this year.
Better than All the Rest
One of the busiest crews on the field during a Liberty football game is the "chain gang", as Liberty enters today's match-up with Elon as the nation's leader in third-down conversions. The Flames finished last weekend's game against Gardner-Webb picking up a first down 7-of-13 times, giving Liberty a 53.2 third-down conversion rate on the season (75-of-141). The Flames are averaging 6.8 third-down conversions per game.
Knowing the Number
Liberty's defense enters today's game on the verge of setting a new program record. The Flames are allowing 131.64 rushing yards per game. Should the Flames hold Elon to 90 or less team rushing yards, Liberty's defense would set a new program record, surpassing last year's team who limited opponents to 128.5 rushing yards per game. Elon ranks No. 48 in rushing offense (151.82 rushing yards per game) and has been held below 90 yards three times this year.
Frequent First Downs
Liberty's potent offensive attack and high third-down conversion rate have the Flames ranked among the nation's elite in another statistical category. Liberty ranks No. 15 in first down offense, picking up an average of 21.55 first downs per game (237 total). Should the Flames continue to pick up first downs at the same rate, Liberty would break a school record.
The Flames are on pace to pick up 259 total first downs this year, which would surpass the 1993 squad, who finished the year with 241 first downs. Elon is equally as impressive in the statistical category, ranking ahead of Liberty at No. 13 by averaging 21.73 first downs per game.
First Down Frenzy
For just the third time this year, Liberty failed to reach the 20 first down mark against Gardner, as the Flames finished with 19 first downs in a 20-point victory over the Bulldogs. Prior to the contest, Liberty had finished 13 out of 15 games with 20 or more first downs. Three games ago against Presbyterian, Liberty finished with 26 first downs, the second highest total by the Flames this year.
Fewer Flags Go Flying
Liberty and Gardner-Web nearly completed a first last Saturday, as it wasn't until the 11:55 mark of the fourth quarter that either team was penalized. Gardner-Webb was called for a false start, while Flames were whistled for the same infraction two minutes later (9:45), accounting for the lone two flags during the entire game. The last time Liberty finished a game with only one penalty was against Norfolk State on Nov. 8, 2003.
During the first three games of the year, Liberty averaged 10.7 penalties per game for an average of 101 penalty yards (32 total penalties/303 total penalty yards). Over the last eight games, Liberty totaled 32 infractions for 248 total yards (averaging 4.0 penalties and 31.0 penalty yards per contest).
Trying to Take Better Care of the Ball
For the eighth time in 11 games, Liberty finished a contest with a positive turnover margin. Liberty gave up the ball once on a fourth quarter fumble, while forcing Gardner-Webb to turn the ball over five times. This was the fourth time a Danny Rocco led football team has forced five giveaways and the first since doing so against VMI last year. The Flames currently rank No. 27 nationally in turnover margin (0.63). During Liberty's first two years under head coach Danny Rocco, the Flames valued possession of the football, ranking No. 7 in turnover margin in 2007 (1.27 per game) and No. 20 in 2006 (0.55 per game).
The Ideal Job
If you are looking for the "cushy" job on the Flames roster, you'll find it in the area of punting. Liberty enters today's game as the team tied for the fourth fewest total punts among FCS programs so far in 2008. The Flames have been forced to punt the ball away 31 times over 11 games (2.8 times per game). Fewer punts mean Liberty's offense is successful, but it has hurt its punting game, as Liberty ranks second to last among FCS programs in net punting (averaging 25.77 yards gained by punting).
Road Warriors
Prior to Liberty's loss at Presbyterian on Nov. 1, the Flames had claimed victory in five-straight road games. The run was the longest road winning streak in Big South history and was the second-longest active winning streak among FCS programs. Lafayette, who entered the same week with the nation's longest FCS winning streak, suffered a setback to Colgate on the road, leaving Cal Poly with the nation's longest current winning streak at five games.
Great Out of the Gate
For the second time in program history, the Flames started the season with a 6-0 record before falling to Lafayette on Oct. 18. Liberty also accomplished the feat in 1989; however, the Flames are hoping for a better finish than the previous 6-0 squad, as the 1989 team lost four out of its last five games to close out the year 7-4.
Brock's Best Friends
After allowing three sacks in its season opener against North Greenville, the Flames offensive line has banded together to allow just five sacks over the last 10 games. Liberty currently ranks No. 4 nationally, as the Flames are surrendering 0.73 sacks per game. Last year, Liberty finished the season ranked No. 4 in the country, as the Flames allowed 0.73 sacks per contest. All in all, the Flames have allowed less than a sack per game (0.82/27 in 33 games) since head coach Danny Rocco took over the program in 2006.
A Pair of Picks
For the fourth time this year, the Flames finished a game with multiple interceptions, as Liberty picked off two passes last weekend against Gardner-Webb. Liberty currently ranks second in the Big South by averaging 1.1 interceptions per game, having picked off 12 passes in 11 games.
Returning Rampage
Liberty finished the Presbyterian game on Nov. 1 with a season-high six kickoff returns for 124 total yards. The yardage total was the third highest this year, falling one yard shy of tying the team's mark of 125 yards against Western Carolina and Coastal Carolina. Liberty currently ranks No. 13 nationally in kickoff returns, averaging 22.81 yards per return. The Flames are one of 30 FCS programs to have returned a kickoff for a touchdown in 2008, recording a 76-yard return by Jonathan Crawford against North Greenville in its season opener.
Punt Return Power Down
After five games, the Flames were ranked as one of the top punt return teams in the nation, averaging 17.6 yards per punt return. However, Liberty's last six opponents have kept the Flames from returning punts, as the Flames have returned just six punts over the last six games for a total of zero yards. Last week, Gardner-Webb punted the ball away twice, with neither time Liberty returning the kick. Following the lower punt return numbers, Liberty now ranks No. 28 nationally in punt returns, averaging 12.24 yards per return. Last year, Liberty ranked No. 8 in return yards per punt (14.24)
Kings of the Return Game
James Madison held onto its No. 1 ranking in FCS football following the weekend of Oct. 18, thanks to a last-second punt return for a touchdown, the Dukes' fourth such return of the season. Liberty and James Madison are among a select few in the nation at the FCS level, as the two programs are joined by 16 others who have returned at least one punt and one kickoff for a touchdown in 2008.
Keeping Them Out of the Backfield
For the eighth time in 11 games, Flames opponents failed to record more than three tackles for a loss against Liberty, as Gardner-Webb tallied three TFLs for a combined loss of 12 yards last weekend. The Flames currently rank No. 3 nationally in fewest tackles for a loss allowed per game (3.55), resulting in a loss of 14.1 average yards per game. Elon also has had some success in the statistical area, ranking No. 13 in tackles for a loss allowed (4.45/24.2 per game).
Red Zone Rapport
Liberty enters today's game scoring on 81.2 percent of their trips inside the Red Zone (39-of-48). The Flames opponent this week, Elon, has succeeded at an even better clip, ranking No. 2 nationally by scoring on 92.7 percent of its drives the get inside their opponents 20-yard line.
On the defensive side of the statistical category, Liberty ranks well ahead of Elon. The Flames rank No. 33 in Red Zone defense, allowing their opponents to score 75.0 percent of the time. Elon ranks No. 102 (out of 118), as the Phoenix defense is allowing opponent to cross the goal line at an 86.2 percent clip.
Legends Enshrined
During Liberty's annual Homecoming game on Oct. 25, the Liberty University Athletics Department honored long-time head coach Sam Rutigliano and former AFC Rookie of the Year and Pro Bowler Eric Green. The pair of Liberty legends joined founder Dr. Jerry Falwell, as jerseys were retired in honor of their accomplishments. A "HC" jersey now hangs in honor of Rutigliano, while a No. 86 jersey rests next to Rutigliano's, paying tribute to Green's storied career at Liberty.
Coaches on the Field
At halftime of the Flames' annual Spring Football Game on April 19, head coach Danny Rocco tabbed six players for leadership roles in 2008, when the skipper named his team captains. Quarterback Brock Smith, running back Rashad Jennings and center Mike Godsil were named offensive team captains. Defensively, nose guard Colin Dugan, linebacker Nick Hursky and defensive back Ryan Greiser were recognized as this year's defensive team captains.
The League's Elite
Rashad Jennings was tabbed the Big South Preseason Offensive Player of the Year at the conference's annual media day on July 25. Jennings, last year's Big South Offensive Player of the Year, set new Big South records in rushing touchdowns (15), all-purpose yards (154.3 per game), total touchdowns scored (17) and points scored (104). Jennings, along with seven other Flames, was named to the Big South's preseason all-conference team, giving Liberty more preseason selects than any other program in the conference this year.
Duo Grabs All-America Honors
Rashad Jennings and Dominic Bolden were named to the Sports Network's Preseason All-America teams on Aug. 22. Jennings grabbed first-team honors as the nation's premium FCS running back, while Bolden was recognized for his stellar return abilities as a third-team honoree at kickoff return specialist. Both Jennings and Bolden were named to the Sports Network's honorable-mention All-America squad at their respective positions at the end of the 2007 campaign.
Streak Comes to and End
For the first time in 11 games, Rashad Jennings failed to reach the 100-yard mark in game. A head injury caused the running back to miss most of the second half against Gardner-Webb, limiting him to 56 yards on 14 carries. Jennings had reached the 100-yard mark in the previous 10 straight games, setting a new program and Big South record for consecutive 100-yard games.
Big South's Best
Rashad Jennings rushed for 147 yards and two touchdowns against VMI on Nov. 8, allowing the senior to become the Big South's all-time leading rusher in just three seasons. The rushing figure against the Keydets pushed him above former Flame Dre Barners, who finished the last three years of his career playing in the Big South, where he ran for 3,409 yards.
Tops of the List
Besides passing Dre Barnes for the Big South all-time rushing mark, Rashad Jennings bested one of Barnes' Liberty markers. Jennings rushed for 147 yards on 24 carries against VMI on Nov. 8, marking his 21st career 100-yard game. Barnes finished his four-year career with 20 100-yard games, while Jennings has surpassed the mark in 21 out of 29 career games over a three-year span.
Making it Look Easy
For the ninth-consecutive game, running back Rashad Jennings recorded a rushing touchdown, finding the end zone on a six-yard run midway through the second quarter against Gardner-Webb. The score gave the senior 272 career points at Liberty, continuing to expand his career record as the Flames' all-time scoring leader among non-kicking players.
Jennings needs 15 more points to become the Big South player with the most points scored by a non-kicking player, as Coastal Carolina's Aundres Perkins holds the record with 286 points.
Leader of the Pack
For the third straight game and the 15th time in his career, Rashad Jennings recorded multiple rushing touchdowns in the same games, as he scored twice against VMI on Nov. 8. Following a score against Gardner-Webb last weekend, Jennings now has 41 career rushing touchdowns, which is a program record and ranks fives behind Coastal Carolina Aundres Perkins, who set the Big South's record in 2006 with 46 career rushing touchdowns.
Mr. Consistency
With his 127 rushing yards against Charleston Southern on Oct. 25, Rashad Jennings hit the 1,000-yard mark on the nose for the season. Since joining the Flames roster in 2006, Jennings has reached the 1,000-yard plateau all three seasons to become the first running back in program and Big South history to accomplish the feat.
Single-Season Best
Rashad Jennings might have had his 100-yard streak halted last week against Gardner-Webb, but his 56 yards allowed him to set a single-season program and Big South record. Entering today's game, Jennings has rushed for 1,391 yards, surpassing Dre Barnes' mark of 1,347 yards set in 2003.
One of the Best
Rashad Jennings enters the game leading the Big South in rushing yards per game, scoring and all-purpose yards. The senior is averaging 139.1 rushing yards per game, which ranks No. 4 nationally in the statistical category. Jennings also ranks tied for No. 5 in the country in scoring (10.80 points per game) and No. 16 in average all-purpose yards (156.90).
Still One First for Jennings
Despite just becoming the Big South's all-time career leading rusher, Rashad Jennings is still shooting for a conference single-season record. The senior has yet to lead the league in rushing for a year. During his first two years, Jennings has finished just behind two different Keydets. In 2006, he finished two yards behind Sean Mizzer (1,022 to 1,020 yards). Last year, he finished eight yards behind Howard Abegesah (1,121 to 1,113), meaning Jennings has missed the mark by a combined 10 yards over his first two years at Liberty.
Single-Season King
Rashad Jennings enters this weekend's final regular-season match-up having rushed for 16 touchdowns this year. The figure is the highest in Big South history, besting his own mark set last year of 15 rushing touchdowns and is tied for the program record. Lawrence Worthington first ran for 16 touchdowns in 1995.
A Scoring Machine
Last weekend against Gardner-Webb, Rashad Jenning scored his 18th touchdown of the year (16 rushing and two receiving). The 18 scores gives the senior 108 points on the year, setting a new program and Big South record. Jennings, who currently ranks No. 5 nationally in scoring average (10.8 points per game), set a new program and Big South record by recording 104 points to rank No. 6 in scoring (11.33 points per game). Jennings is the only player in program history reach the 100-point mark in consecutive seasons.
Streaking Quarterback Halted
After back-to-back games with 250 or more passing yards, Brock Smith failed to reach the mark against Presbyterian on Nov. 1. He finished the game against the Blue Hose with his lowest completion percentage of the season at 50.0 percent (15-of-30), marking the first time this year the quarterback has failed to finish a game with a competition percentage above the 60 percent mark. The consecutive 250-yard passing performances gave Smith nine for his career, which ranks seventh in program history.
Playing with the Big Boys
Brock Smith's 269 passing yards against Charleston Southern on Oct. 25, his fourth best single-game passing performance in his career. The figure pushed him over the 6,000 career passing mark, making him the fourth quarterback in program and Big South to accomplish the feat. Smith enters today's game with 6,763 career passing yards, with his 226 yards against Gardner-Webb moving him into second place on the Big South's all-time list. During the contest, he surpassed Coastal Carolina's Tyler Thipgen (6,598 yards), who is currently the starting quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, and Gardner-Webb's Nick Roberts (6,690 yards).
Always on the Mark
Brock Smith enters today's game as one of the most efficient passers in the nation. The senior currently ranks No. 7 nationally in passing efficiency, boasting a 162.64 passer ranking. Should the season end today, Smith would finish his career as the most proficient passer in Liberty and Big South history. The senior has a 148.0 career passer efficiency rating, ranking ahead of Charleston Southern's Collin Drafts (134.4) and Liberty's Robby Justino (132.6) in the respective rankings.
A Dynamic Duo
Against Lafayette and Charleston Southern, Jonathan Crawford and Dominic Bolden pulled off a feat no two other wide receivers have in program history. The pair became the 16th receiving duo to surpass the 100 yard receiving mark in the same game against Lafayette. The following weekend, they exceeded the century mark again to become the first pair to do so in consecutive games. Prior to the Lafayette game, the last time two receivers surpassed the 100 yard mark in the same game was against Charleston Southern on Nov. 10, 2001. Adrian Hall (133 yards) and Daniel Thomas (110 yards) did so, helping the Flames down the Buccaneers, 45-31.
Senior's Streak Comes to an End
VMI was the first opponent in four games to keep Dominic Bolden from surpassing the 100-yard receiving mark, as the senior finished the contest with four receptions for 51 yards. Bolden became the fourth player in program history to surpass the 100-yard mark for three straight games, doing so against Lafayette (150 yards), Charleston Southern (117 yards) and Presbyterian (111 yards). The last receiver to surpass the 100-yard mark in three consecutive games was Courtney Freeman in 1997. The program's all-time record for consecutive 100-yard receiving games was set by Pat Nelson at five games over the span of the 1990-91 seasons.
Dominic Demands Notice
Following his third straight 100-yard game giving him five for his career, Dominic Bolden has put himself in the position to add his name to the program's record book. The senior now has 961 receiving yards to his credit, marking the most single-season receiving yards in the last 10 years and the third best single-season performance in program history.
Only two players in program history have finished a season with 1,000 or more receiving yards. Fred Banks finished the 1984 season with 1,029 receiving yards, while Pat Nelson holds the program's single-season record at 1,075 yards set in 1991. Bolden currently leads the Big South and ranks No. 22 nationally by averaging 87.36 receiving yards per game.
Career Day for Crawford
After posting his first 100-yard receiving game against Lafayette, Jonathan Crawford bettered his numbers against Charleston Southern. On Oct. 25, the senior led the Flames with six catches for 124 yards, while two of his six receptions went for touchdowns. The senior now has 683 receiving yards on the year, which is more five times his career total coming into the 2008 season (134 yards on 11 receptions).
Rasberry Rises to the Occasion
Corey Rasberry had a career day against VMI on Nov. 8, catching two passes for 53 yards and a touchdown to help the Flames clinch its second straight Big South title. The senior's first reception was a 19-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter, followed by a career-long reception of 34 yards in the second. The touchdown catch for Rasberry, who came into the game having caught 12 career passes for 124 yards, was his first of any level of organized football.
The Over the Hill Gang
Celebrating the number 40 is often frowned upon, as the 40th birthday is known as moving "over the hill." However, for senior Mike Godsil it is a number of endearment. Against Lafayette, the senior started his 40th-consecutive career game, doing so at center for each game since he joined the roster as a freshman in 2005. Against Presbyterian on Nov. 1, Godsil was joined in the elite club by Patrick Calvary, who started his 40th career game. However, Calvary suffered an injury against the Blue Hose, which kept the senior out of the line-up on Nov. 8 against VMI, ending his streak.
Terrell's Touchdown Run Comes to an End
For the first time in 18 games, Zach Terrell failed to record a rushing touchdown in a game, as the senior finished the Western Carolina game on Sept. 13 with eight carries for 51 yards without finding the end zone. Prior to the game against the Catamounts, the last time Terrell played in a game without rushing for a touchdown was on Sept. 30, 2006, when the then sophomore carried the ball four times for 20 yards without finding the end zone against Wake Forest. Terrell currently ranks third in the Big South and fifth in Liberty's program history with 29 career rushing touchdowns.
The Purpose-Driven Pair
Liberty is the only team at the FCS level to have two players rank in the Top 25 individually in all-purpose running yards. Rashad Jennings leads the Flames, as he is averaging 156.90 all-purpose yards per game, which ranks No. 16 nationally. Dominic Bolden leads the team in total all-purpose yards (1,640), but ranks No. 21 in the country by averaging 149.09 yards per game.
Total Team Effort
The Flames enter today's game with the best scoring defense in the Big South, while ranking No. 23 nationally by allowing a stingy 20.09 points per game. Senior linebacker Nick Hursky leads Liberty's defensive effort and ranks third in the Big South, as he is averaging 8.5 tackles per game. Hursky is followed on the Flames' defensive listing by Chris Rocco (6.4 per game) and Ryan Greiser (6.3). The trio are the lone three Liberty defenders in the conference's Top 30 individual tackles listing this year.
Duo Honored by Big South
Nick Hursky and Ben Shipps' accomplishments in helping the Flames defeat Gardner-Webb, 30-10 last Saturday, did not go unnoticed by the Big South, as the league honored them as players of the week on Monday. Hursky, this week's Defensive Player of the Week, posted his second-highest career tackle total to lead the Flames with 15 stops. Shipps earned Special Teams Player of the Week accolades after setting a new career high with nine points, as he was 2-of-2 on field goals and 3-of-3 on point-after attempts.
Defining the Word Student-Athlete
On Nov. 6, four Liberty starters were named to the ESPN the Magazine CoSIDA Academic District 3 All-District team. Colin Dugan, Ryan Greiser, Dan Pope and Kevin Richard each received the academic distinction, helped in part by having a 3.30 cumulative GPA. The quartet now will move onto the national ballot for voting, which will determine the CoSIDA Academic All-America team, the highest academic honor a NCAA student-athlete can receive.
Rocco Rocketing to the Top
Having finished with a double-figure tackle total in three out of the last five games, defensive back Chris Rocco has quickly ascended to No. 2 on the Flames season tackle list. Rocco is coming off a career day against Gardner-Webb, finishing second on the team with a career high 11 stops, while recording his first two career fumble recoveries. The junior has now recorded 70 tackles on the year, which ranks No. 10 in the Big South among all tacklers and second best among defensive backs.
Torpedo Tim
Tim Torrence gave Liberty's defensive backfield the spark it needed to keep Gardner-Webb's quarterback Devin Campbell in check last weekend. The speedy junior finished third on the team with eight stops, setting a new career high for Torrence, besting his seven tackles against Charleston Southern last year. Equally as important, the defensive back found his way twice into the Bulldogs backfield, resulting in his first two career sacks for a loss of 19 total yards.
Sensational Specialist
Liberty has two of the nation's best return specialists on its roster in seniors Dominic Bolden and Jonathan Crawford. Bolden, who currently ranks No. 10 nationally by averaging 15.27 yards per punt return, is the Big South's all-time leader with 1,369 career kickoff return yards and three kick offs returned for a touchdown. Bolden also ranks atop the program's listing with a 29.1 kickoff return yard average. Bolden's wideout partner Crawford currently ranks tied for No. 12 nationally, as the senior is averaging 26.59 yards per kickoff return. Both return specialists have returned a kickoff and a punt for a touchdown to account for two of three players in Big South history to accomplish the feat.
Against the Nation's Best
The Flames have won their last two match-ups against Top 25 teams, defeating No. 23 Youngstown, 31-28, earlier this year and No. 24 Charleston Southern, 34-20, on Nov. 11, 2006. All-time Liberty is 9-39 against nationally-ranked FCS programs.
Today's Game
Two of the nation's best teams will take to the field today, when Liberty and Elon battle it out at Williams Stadium in both squad's regular-season finales. The Flames are coming off a 30-10 victory over Gardner-Webb, sealing up their second straight undefeated Big South season. Last weekend, the Phoenix gave three-time defending national champion and currently No. 2 Appalachian State all the Mountaineers could handle in a 24-16 defeat at Kidd Brewer Stadium in Boone, N.C.
Coach's Corner
In just three seasons at Liberty, head coach Danny Rocco has taken the Flames from 1-10 (in 2005) to back-to-back Big South Conference championships. The third-year skipper has posted a 23-10 record since taking over the program, helping him garner Big South Coach of the Year honors in both 2006 and 2007. Last year, the Flames were 8-3 and a perfect 4-0 against Big South foes, while this year the Flames became the first 5-0 team in league history.
Along with Rocco, Pete Lembo will be completing his third regular-season at the helm of his program, as the Georgetown graduate has guided Elon to a 20-13 record. Prior to coming to Elon, Lembo served as the head coach for five seasons at Lehigh, leading the Mountain Hawks to a pair of NCAA FCS Playoff berths and two Patriot League championships.
A Familiar Foe
Not too long ago, the Flames and the Phoenix were pioneers in Big South football, battling it out for the league's first title in 2002. The Phoenix claimed victory in 2002, 56-35, at home, helping Elon post one of eight victories over 11 games against the Flames. The Phoenix have won five out of the last six meetings, with Liberty's lone victory in the recent run being a 27-17 win, closing out the 2004 campaign in Lynchburg on Nov. 20. Overall, Elon leads the series 3-2 when facing the Flames in Lynchburg.
Twice as Nice
Liberty's victory over VMI last on Nov. 8, coupled with Gardner-Webb's loss to Coastal Carolina, gave the Flames the Big South Conference title for the second straight season. Liberty is one of three programs in league history to win consecutive titles. Gardner-Webb hoisted back-to-back trophies in 2002 and 2003, while Coastal Carolina reeled off three straight championship seasons in 2004, 2005 and 2006.
Home Sweet Home
Today, the Flames welcome visiting Elon to Williams Stadium, a facility Liberty has called home for the past 20 seasons. Liberty rallied for a 37-19 victory over Towson State on Oct. 21, 1989, and has won 65 percent of its contests since, having posted a 72-38 record at the on-campus facility. Last year, the Flames went undefeated at home for the second time in program history, posting a school-record 6-0 mark, en route to their Big South title run.
Sensational Sellouts
Thanks to soaking rains in the greater Lynchburg area two days prior to last weekend's match-up with Gardner-Webb, the Flames had their "sellout" streak snapped as 10,636 saw Liberty seal up its second straight Big South title. Prior to the contest, Liberty had filled Williams Stadium beyond capacity 11 straight times. Since head coach Danny Rocco has arrived at Liberty, the Flames have filled Williams Stadium beyond capacity 13 out of 18 games. Liberty has posted a 15-3 record during those contests, averaging 13,121 fans per home game.
Attending to the National Numbers
Following its 12th-consecutive 10,000-plus crowd at Williams Stadium in the Flames' 30-10 victory over Gardner-Webb last weekend, Liberty ranks as one of the nation's elite FCS programs in terms of home attendance figures. The Flames now rank No. 4 nationally in filling stadium capacity (117.05 percent), No. 9 in total home attendance (84,275) and No. 13 in average home attendance (14,046).
Packing Them In at a Record Pace
Six straight 10,000-plus games have Liberty on the verge of breaking its all-time season attendance record at Williams Stadium. The Flames have packed in 84,275 fans into their 12,000-seat on campus facility during their six home games. The season total leaves Liberty just 865 fans away from breaking last year's record of 85,140. If the figure is surpassed, it would mark the third straight year Liberty has set a new attendance record. The 2006 season started the attendance figure climbing trend, when Liberty has 66,765 fans see six home games.
Saturday Night Lights
Under head coach Danny Rocco, the Flames are 11-3 in night games. Since 1976, Liberty has compiled a 53-65-3 record in night games.
In Broad Daylight
Under head coach Danny Rocco, the Flames are 12-7 in games played during the day. Since 1976, Liberty is 114-114-1 in day games.
Natural Versus Artificial Surfaces
Under head coach Danny Rocco, the Flames are 17-7 on artificial turf and 6-3 on natural grass. Overall, Liberty is 97-108-4 on natural grass and 77-75 on artificial turf. The Flames play their home games at Williams Stadium, which has an artificial surface, as new state-of-the-art FieldTurf was installed prior to the start of the 2006 season. Liberty has posted a 15-3 record at home since the new surface was installed.
Overtime Update
The Flames enter today's game having posted a 3-5 record in overtime games. Liberty's last overtime game came on Sept. 15, 2007, when the Flames dropped a 48-41 decision to William & Mary in double overtime in Williamsburg, Va.
Liberty has only played two of its eight overtime games away from Williams Stadium. Liberty's first extra-period game was a 34-28 road loss to Morgan State on Sept. 21, 1996. Liberty's last victory in an overtime contest came on Nov. 22, 2003, when it closed out the 2003 campaign with a 49-42 win over Hofstra.
Raising Up No. 71
Prior to the start of the Flames' contest against Tusculum on Sept. 1, 2007, Liberty ceremonially honored founder Dr. Jerry Falwell, who had passed away the previous May, by starting a new game day tradition. Members of the University Police force raised a No. 71 flag underneath the Liberty Flames flag above the South end zone, just prior to the team taking the field, bringing the 14,925 fans in attendance to their feet.
The new tradition has become a permanent part of the Flames' pregame ceremonies at all home football games. A different person/group will receive the honor of raising the flag at each game. Today's honorees are parents from Liberty's senior class, representing the family members who helped honor Liberty 26 seniors before kickoff.
This year's honorees:
Aug. 30 (North Greenville) – Jerry Falwell, Jr., LU President and Chancellor
Sept. 6 (Glenville State) – Josh McDougal, former LU cross country/track and field standout
Oct. 11 (Stony Brook) – SAAC, LU's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
Oct. 18 (Lafayette) – Representative from the Parents' Club Foundation
Oct. 25 (Charleston Southern) - Representative from Alumni Office
Nov. 15 (Gardner-Webb) - Representative from the 2007 Big South Championship team
Nov. 22 (Elon) – Parents of Liberty's senior class
Back in the Big South
Liberty is in the midst of its seventh season of competition in Big South Conference action today. Since beginning league play in 2002, Liberty has posted an 18-10 Big South record, thanks to a perfect championship seasons in 2007 (4-0) and 2008 (5-0), while posting back-to-back 3-1 records in 2003 and 2004.
Liberty series records against Big South schools since 2002
Charleston Southern 6-1
Coastal Carolina 3-3
Gardner-Webb 3-4
Stony Brook 1-0
VMI 5-1
Note: Elon was a member of the Big South in 2002 with Elon defeating Liberty.
From "Good2Great"
Liberty captured its first-ever Big South championship last year, sweeping through the conference with an unblemished 4-0 league record. Liberty was the fifth program in league history to finish a conference campaign undefeated, winning its Big South games by more than 30 points per game (47.8 average points scored to 17.0 average points allowed).
At the Top Again
For the second year in a row, the Flames were named the preseason favorites to hoist the Big South trophy at the end of the season. Liberty garnered 12 out of 13 first-place votes in the annual Big South coaches and media preseason poll and finished 19 points ahead of second-place Coastal Carolina in total votes.
Noting the Streak
Liberty had its 11-game winning streak snapped on Oct. 18 with a 35-21 loss to Patriot League contender Lafayette. Below is a breakdown of where the streak ranked on the program, conference and national scenes heading into the contest against the Leopards:
• It was the longest winning streak in program history (bettering a 10-game winning streak which spanned the 1988 and 1989 seasons)
• It was the second longest in Big South history (longest was 14-straight by Charleston Southern over the 2005 and 2006 seasons)
• It was the nation's longest active winning streak among FCS programs (ranking ahead of Sacred Heart, James Madison, San Diego and Elon, who all had won six-straight games)
Not Many in the NCAA Could Say the Same
Liberty's 11-game winning streak ranked as the longest active winning streak among FCS programs prior to its loss to Lafayette on Oct. 18. At the time of the loss, Liberty was one of six NCAA programs to own a double-digit winning streak out of 629 total NCAA programs (FBS – 120, FCS – 123, Division II – 150 and Division III – 236). The Flames were joined in the elite group by BYU (FBS, 16-straight), Tuskegee (Division II, 20-straight), Bloomsburg (Division II, 12-straight), American International (Division II, 10-straight) and Wisconsin-Whitewater (Division III, 18-straight).
Big South Barrage
Despite the Flames' 11-game winning streak coming to an end against Lafayette on Oct. 18, one streak remains alive for Liberty, as the Flames have reeled off 11-straight Big South victories dating back to the 2006 season. The last time the Flames dropped a Big South contest was on Oct. 28, when Liberty fell, 28-26, to No. 22 Coastal Carolina. The league run is the longest in Big South history, bettering Coastal Carolina's eight-game conference winning streak that spanned three seasons (11/22/03—10/29/05).
Fierce In Front of Their Own Fans
Not only did the loss to Lafayette on Oct. 18 snap the nation's longest FCS winning streak, but it also halted an 11-game home winning streak for Liberty. The successful home victory run was the longest in program history and was the second longest in the nation at the time among FCS programs. San Diego held the nation's longest FCS home winning streak at 28 games at the time of Liberty's loss.
Voters Continue To Move Flames Up
For the second straight week, Liberty's Big South victory helped the Flames climb slightly in the national FCS polls, as Liberty moved up two spots in both the FCS Coaches poll and Sports Network rankings. Liberty enters the game ranked No. 20 in the FCS Coaches poll and No. 22 in the Sports Network listing. The Flames have been ranked among the nation's Top 25 programs for 10-straight weeks, setting a program record for consecutive weeks in the national polls.
More from the Polls
Speaking of votes, Liberty Head Coach Danny Rocco and Sparky, the program's mascot, are currently in the running for two national honors. In the fan portion of the poll for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year honor, Rocco ranked second in the Division I-AA listing, as of Wednesday, while Sparky is the second leading write-in candidate in the Capital One Mascot Challenge. Voting in both fan polls opened during the first week of the year and will conclude directly following the conclusion of the regular season.
Sensational Shutouts
For the second time under head coach Danny Rocco, the Flames recorded multiple shutouts in the same season. Earlier this year, the Flames blanked Stony Brook, 33-0, in the Seawolves' first-ever Big South game. On Oct. 25, the Flames shut out Charleston Southern, 42-0, making Liberty the first-ever Big South team to shut out back-to-back opponents. The blanking was the sixth under head coach Danny Rocco and the 19th in program history.
Third and Climbing
In just three seasons, head coach Danny Rocco has moved into third place on the Flames all-time coaching ranks, as Liberty's victory over VMI last weekend was Rocco's 22nd at Liberty, moving him past Ken Karcher (21-46). Ranking ahead of Rocco are Tom Dowling with 33 wins (33-38-2) and Sam Rutigliano, who is the winningest coach in program history (67-53).
Offensive Obsession
For the eighth-straight game and the 10th time this year, the Flames surpassed the 400 total offensive yard mark against Gardner-Webb last Saturday, finishing the game with 442 total offensive yards against the Bulldogs. The yardage run currently has Liberty ranked No. 8 nationally in the statistical category, averaging 450.36 total offensive yards per game.
Keeping Your Eyes on the Skies
Those in attendance at Saturday afternoon's game are apt to see some high-flying action, as one of the nation's best aerial attacks will be pitted against a team which has frequented the skies themselves lately. Elon currently ranks No. 25 nationally, as they are averaging 248.18 passing yards per game. The Phoenix have thrown for 200 or more yards in nine out of 11 games and four times for 250-plus yards.
The Flames posted their third-highest passing total of the year last week, when Liberty's quarterbacks completed 13-of-21 passing attempts for 247 yards. Liberty has surpassed the 200-yard passing mark the last five games, throwing for two passing scores in each. The Flames currently rank No. 37 nationally by averaging 229.55 passing yards per game.
Just Off the Mark Again
For the fourth time in five games, the Flames missed surpassing the 200-yard rushing mark, as Liberty ran for 195 yards in its 20-point victory over Gardner-Webb last Saturday. Liberty currently ranks No. 11 nationally, by averaging 220.82 rushing yards per game. Since head coach Danny Rocco's arrival in 2006, Liberty has averaged 207.2 rushing yards per game and has surpassed the 200-yard plateau in 15 out of 33 games.
Senior Day Salute
Today's game will mark the final home game for 26 players, who have played a part in changing the culture of Liberty football. This talented group of seniors has turned a program, which was 1-10 during their freshman years, around into a two-time Big South championship team.
Thank you to the following players, who will be playing in their final regular-season game today: Dominic Bolden, Patrick Calvary, Ian Childress, Jay Coady, Mario Cosby, Jonathan Crawford, Zach Davis, Colin Dugan, Mike Godsil, Ryan Greiser, Kent Hicks, Nick Hursky, Rashad Jennings, Matt Lambros, Pat Parziale, Dan Pope, Corey Rasberry, Kevin Richard, Eugene Rogers, Joey Sandvig, Brock Smith, Britt Stone and Zach Terrell.
Behind the Scenes Warriors
Not only will today be the final regular-season game for 23 players who could be donning Liberty jerseys for the final time. But the battle between two Top 25 teams will also mark the final regular-season contest for several student members of the Flames support staff.
Student equipment managers Dante Bucci, Jeremy (Perkey) Clark, Matt Stanton and Pete Sundheim; student video assistant David McDaniel; student assistant athletic trainers Zach Burke, Ben Galley, Erica Fairfax and Justin Keith – thank you for your faithful years of service to the Liberty football program.
Best of the Best
The Liberty vs. Elon game, being played today at Williams Stadium, is one of five match-ups across the FCS nation pitting two Top 25 programs against each other. The last time two nationally ranked teams faced off against each other in Lynchburg was on Nov. 15, 1997, when No. 21 Hofstra upended No. 19 Liberty, 40-27. The Flames dropped a pair of games to nationally ranked teams at home that year, as they also lost to No. 25 Hampton, 33-27, in overtime, marking the team's lone setbacks during its 9-2 record-setting campaign.
Nine Is Really Nice
Speaking of the 1997 season, the 2008 version of the Flames matched the 1997 squad and one other on Saturday when Liberty defeated Gardner-Webb, 30-10, to pick up their ninth win of the season. Only three teams in program history have reached the nine-win plateau, as Liberty also did so in 1997 with a 9-2 record and in 1979 with a 9-1-1 mark.
Sweeter the Second Time Around
Liberty won its Big South record 11th-consecutive game last Saturday, defeating Gardner-Webb, 30-10, to cap off its second straight Big South title and a 5-0 season. The Flames are the third program in league history to win consecutive Big South championships and the second to do so with unblemished records. Gardner-Webb also did so in claiming the league's first two titles in 2002 and 2003.
Danny Remains Defense
The Flames held Charleston Southern to 191 total offensive yards on Oct. 25, helping guide Liberty to a 42-0 shutout victory. The figure marked a new season low for a Liberty opponent and was the third fewest yards allowed since head coach Danny Rocco took over the team in 2006. Liberty currently ranks No. 54 nationally in total defense, allowing an average of 340.82 total offensive yards per game.
Record Book Review
Liberty enters its match-up with Southern Conference foe Elon on the verge of setting a new team rushing record. The Flames, which rank No. 11 nationally in rushing yards per game (220.82), need 186 yards to surpass the 2003 squad, who ran for a program-best 2,614 yards. The Flames also need three more rushing touchdowns to tie the 1979 team, who found the end zone 31 times during their 9-1-1 season.
Liberty has already set a new record for total offensive yards (4,954), surpassing the 1994 team who finished the year with 4,856 yards. The Flames' current season averages in rushing yards per game, total offensive yards per game (441.5) and passing completion percentage (64.4) currently ranks ahead of the school record in each category.
A Decisive Number
The Flames' prolific offense is starting to catch the eye of the nation, as Liberty ranks No. 15 in scoring offense (34.36 points per game). The 30-point mark seems to be the key number for a Flames victory, as Liberty is 19-2 under head coach Danny Rocco when Liberty scores more than 30 points in a game. The Flames are 4-8 under Rocco when Liberty fails to reach the 30-point threshold.
Points a Plenty under Rocco
In eight out of 11 games this year, the Flames have scored 30 or more points, doing so again in a 30-10 victory over Gardner-Webb last weekend. Liberty currently ranks No. 15 nationally in scoring offense, as the Flames are averaging 34.36 points per game. Last year, the Flames were No. 3 in scoring offense, averaging a program and Big South-record 42.6 points per game. Since head coach Danny Rocco took over the program in 2006, Liberty has averaged 33.4 points scored per game, and Liberty is 19-2 in contests in which the Flames roll up 30 or more points on the scoreboard.
Don't Forget About the "D"
Despite Liberty's gaudy offensive numbers over the past two-plus seasons, the Flames' defense has played a significant factor in the team's success, bringing a smile to head coach Danny Rocco's face, as he is a 20-plus year defensive coaching veteran. Since 2006, Liberty has held its opponents to an average of 19.1 points per game, meaning Liberty is outscoring its opponents by more than two touchdowns per game (an average of 14.3 points per game) over the span.
Beating Them at the Own Game
The Flames rushed for 195 yards against Gardner-Webb last week, nearly doubling the Bulldogs season average they have been allowing to opponents in 2008. Gardner-Webb came into the game allowing an average of 110.6 rushing yards per game, having held seven of its first 10 opponents under the century mark.
Elon enters the game No. 52 nationally in rushing defense, allowing 139.45 rushing yards per game, including 202 yards to No. 2 Appalachian State last weekend. However, the Phoenix have surrendered the 22nd fewest rushing touchdowns in FCS, allowing only 11 this year.
Better than All the Rest
One of the busiest crews on the field during a Liberty football game is the "chain gang", as Liberty enters today's match-up with Elon as the nation's leader in third-down conversions. The Flames finished last weekend's game against Gardner-Webb picking up a first down 7-of-13 times, giving Liberty a 53.2 third-down conversion rate on the season (75-of-141). The Flames are averaging 6.8 third-down conversions per game.
Knowing the Number
Liberty's defense enters today's game on the verge of setting a new program record. The Flames are allowing 131.64 rushing yards per game. Should the Flames hold Elon to 90 or less team rushing yards, Liberty's defense would set a new program record, surpassing last year's team who limited opponents to 128.5 rushing yards per game. Elon ranks No. 48 in rushing offense (151.82 rushing yards per game) and has been held below 90 yards three times this year.
Frequent First Downs
Liberty's potent offensive attack and high third-down conversion rate have the Flames ranked among the nation's elite in another statistical category. Liberty ranks No. 15 in first down offense, picking up an average of 21.55 first downs per game (237 total). Should the Flames continue to pick up first downs at the same rate, Liberty would break a school record.
The Flames are on pace to pick up 259 total first downs this year, which would surpass the 1993 squad, who finished the year with 241 first downs. Elon is equally as impressive in the statistical category, ranking ahead of Liberty at No. 13 by averaging 21.73 first downs per game.
First Down Frenzy
For just the third time this year, Liberty failed to reach the 20 first down mark against Gardner, as the Flames finished with 19 first downs in a 20-point victory over the Bulldogs. Prior to the contest, Liberty had finished 13 out of 15 games with 20 or more first downs. Three games ago against Presbyterian, Liberty finished with 26 first downs, the second highest total by the Flames this year.
Fewer Flags Go Flying
Liberty and Gardner-Web nearly completed a first last Saturday, as it wasn't until the 11:55 mark of the fourth quarter that either team was penalized. Gardner-Webb was called for a false start, while Flames were whistled for the same infraction two minutes later (9:45), accounting for the lone two flags during the entire game. The last time Liberty finished a game with only one penalty was against Norfolk State on Nov. 8, 2003.
During the first three games of the year, Liberty averaged 10.7 penalties per game for an average of 101 penalty yards (32 total penalties/303 total penalty yards). Over the last eight games, Liberty totaled 32 infractions for 248 total yards (averaging 4.0 penalties and 31.0 penalty yards per contest).
Trying to Take Better Care of the Ball
For the eighth time in 11 games, Liberty finished a contest with a positive turnover margin. Liberty gave up the ball once on a fourth quarter fumble, while forcing Gardner-Webb to turn the ball over five times. This was the fourth time a Danny Rocco led football team has forced five giveaways and the first since doing so against VMI last year. The Flames currently rank No. 27 nationally in turnover margin (0.63). During Liberty's first two years under head coach Danny Rocco, the Flames valued possession of the football, ranking No. 7 in turnover margin in 2007 (1.27 per game) and No. 20 in 2006 (0.55 per game).
The Ideal Job
If you are looking for the "cushy" job on the Flames roster, you'll find it in the area of punting. Liberty enters today's game as the team tied for the fourth fewest total punts among FCS programs so far in 2008. The Flames have been forced to punt the ball away 31 times over 11 games (2.8 times per game). Fewer punts mean Liberty's offense is successful, but it has hurt its punting game, as Liberty ranks second to last among FCS programs in net punting (averaging 25.77 yards gained by punting).
Road Warriors
Prior to Liberty's loss at Presbyterian on Nov. 1, the Flames had claimed victory in five-straight road games. The run was the longest road winning streak in Big South history and was the second-longest active winning streak among FCS programs. Lafayette, who entered the same week with the nation's longest FCS winning streak, suffered a setback to Colgate on the road, leaving Cal Poly with the nation's longest current winning streak at five games.
Great Out of the Gate
For the second time in program history, the Flames started the season with a 6-0 record before falling to Lafayette on Oct. 18. Liberty also accomplished the feat in 1989; however, the Flames are hoping for a better finish than the previous 6-0 squad, as the 1989 team lost four out of its last five games to close out the year 7-4.
Brock's Best Friends
After allowing three sacks in its season opener against North Greenville, the Flames offensive line has banded together to allow just five sacks over the last 10 games. Liberty currently ranks No. 4 nationally, as the Flames are surrendering 0.73 sacks per game. Last year, Liberty finished the season ranked No. 4 in the country, as the Flames allowed 0.73 sacks per contest. All in all, the Flames have allowed less than a sack per game (0.82/27 in 33 games) since head coach Danny Rocco took over the program in 2006.
A Pair of Picks
For the fourth time this year, the Flames finished a game with multiple interceptions, as Liberty picked off two passes last weekend against Gardner-Webb. Liberty currently ranks second in the Big South by averaging 1.1 interceptions per game, having picked off 12 passes in 11 games.
Returning Rampage
Liberty finished the Presbyterian game on Nov. 1 with a season-high six kickoff returns for 124 total yards. The yardage total was the third highest this year, falling one yard shy of tying the team's mark of 125 yards against Western Carolina and Coastal Carolina. Liberty currently ranks No. 13 nationally in kickoff returns, averaging 22.81 yards per return. The Flames are one of 30 FCS programs to have returned a kickoff for a touchdown in 2008, recording a 76-yard return by Jonathan Crawford against North Greenville in its season opener.
Punt Return Power Down
After five games, the Flames were ranked as one of the top punt return teams in the nation, averaging 17.6 yards per punt return. However, Liberty's last six opponents have kept the Flames from returning punts, as the Flames have returned just six punts over the last six games for a total of zero yards. Last week, Gardner-Webb punted the ball away twice, with neither time Liberty returning the kick. Following the lower punt return numbers, Liberty now ranks No. 28 nationally in punt returns, averaging 12.24 yards per return. Last year, Liberty ranked No. 8 in return yards per punt (14.24)
Kings of the Return Game
James Madison held onto its No. 1 ranking in FCS football following the weekend of Oct. 18, thanks to a last-second punt return for a touchdown, the Dukes' fourth such return of the season. Liberty and James Madison are among a select few in the nation at the FCS level, as the two programs are joined by 16 others who have returned at least one punt and one kickoff for a touchdown in 2008.
Keeping Them Out of the Backfield
For the eighth time in 11 games, Flames opponents failed to record more than three tackles for a loss against Liberty, as Gardner-Webb tallied three TFLs for a combined loss of 12 yards last weekend. The Flames currently rank No. 3 nationally in fewest tackles for a loss allowed per game (3.55), resulting in a loss of 14.1 average yards per game. Elon also has had some success in the statistical area, ranking No. 13 in tackles for a loss allowed (4.45/24.2 per game).
Red Zone Rapport
Liberty enters today's game scoring on 81.2 percent of their trips inside the Red Zone (39-of-48). The Flames opponent this week, Elon, has succeeded at an even better clip, ranking No. 2 nationally by scoring on 92.7 percent of its drives the get inside their opponents 20-yard line.
On the defensive side of the statistical category, Liberty ranks well ahead of Elon. The Flames rank No. 33 in Red Zone defense, allowing their opponents to score 75.0 percent of the time. Elon ranks No. 102 (out of 118), as the Phoenix defense is allowing opponent to cross the goal line at an 86.2 percent clip.
Legends Enshrined
During Liberty's annual Homecoming game on Oct. 25, the Liberty University Athletics Department honored long-time head coach Sam Rutigliano and former AFC Rookie of the Year and Pro Bowler Eric Green. The pair of Liberty legends joined founder Dr. Jerry Falwell, as jerseys were retired in honor of their accomplishments. A "HC" jersey now hangs in honor of Rutigliano, while a No. 86 jersey rests next to Rutigliano's, paying tribute to Green's storied career at Liberty.
Coaches on the Field
At halftime of the Flames' annual Spring Football Game on April 19, head coach Danny Rocco tabbed six players for leadership roles in 2008, when the skipper named his team captains. Quarterback Brock Smith, running back Rashad Jennings and center Mike Godsil were named offensive team captains. Defensively, nose guard Colin Dugan, linebacker Nick Hursky and defensive back Ryan Greiser were recognized as this year's defensive team captains.
The League's Elite
Rashad Jennings was tabbed the Big South Preseason Offensive Player of the Year at the conference's annual media day on July 25. Jennings, last year's Big South Offensive Player of the Year, set new Big South records in rushing touchdowns (15), all-purpose yards (154.3 per game), total touchdowns scored (17) and points scored (104). Jennings, along with seven other Flames, was named to the Big South's preseason all-conference team, giving Liberty more preseason selects than any other program in the conference this year.
Duo Grabs All-America Honors
Rashad Jennings and Dominic Bolden were named to the Sports Network's Preseason All-America teams on Aug. 22. Jennings grabbed first-team honors as the nation's premium FCS running back, while Bolden was recognized for his stellar return abilities as a third-team honoree at kickoff return specialist. Both Jennings and Bolden were named to the Sports Network's honorable-mention All-America squad at their respective positions at the end of the 2007 campaign.
Streak Comes to and End
For the first time in 11 games, Rashad Jennings failed to reach the 100-yard mark in game. A head injury caused the running back to miss most of the second half against Gardner-Webb, limiting him to 56 yards on 14 carries. Jennings had reached the 100-yard mark in the previous 10 straight games, setting a new program and Big South record for consecutive 100-yard games.
Big South's Best
Rashad Jennings rushed for 147 yards and two touchdowns against VMI on Nov. 8, allowing the senior to become the Big South's all-time leading rusher in just three seasons. The rushing figure against the Keydets pushed him above former Flame Dre Barners, who finished the last three years of his career playing in the Big South, where he ran for 3,409 yards.
Tops of the List
Besides passing Dre Barnes for the Big South all-time rushing mark, Rashad Jennings bested one of Barnes' Liberty markers. Jennings rushed for 147 yards on 24 carries against VMI on Nov. 8, marking his 21st career 100-yard game. Barnes finished his four-year career with 20 100-yard games, while Jennings has surpassed the mark in 21 out of 29 career games over a three-year span.
Making it Look Easy
For the ninth-consecutive game, running back Rashad Jennings recorded a rushing touchdown, finding the end zone on a six-yard run midway through the second quarter against Gardner-Webb. The score gave the senior 272 career points at Liberty, continuing to expand his career record as the Flames' all-time scoring leader among non-kicking players.
Jennings needs 15 more points to become the Big South player with the most points scored by a non-kicking player, as Coastal Carolina's Aundres Perkins holds the record with 286 points.
Leader of the Pack
For the third straight game and the 15th time in his career, Rashad Jennings recorded multiple rushing touchdowns in the same games, as he scored twice against VMI on Nov. 8. Following a score against Gardner-Webb last weekend, Jennings now has 41 career rushing touchdowns, which is a program record and ranks fives behind Coastal Carolina Aundres Perkins, who set the Big South's record in 2006 with 46 career rushing touchdowns.
Mr. Consistency
With his 127 rushing yards against Charleston Southern on Oct. 25, Rashad Jennings hit the 1,000-yard mark on the nose for the season. Since joining the Flames roster in 2006, Jennings has reached the 1,000-yard plateau all three seasons to become the first running back in program and Big South history to accomplish the feat.
Single-Season Best
Rashad Jennings might have had his 100-yard streak halted last week against Gardner-Webb, but his 56 yards allowed him to set a single-season program and Big South record. Entering today's game, Jennings has rushed for 1,391 yards, surpassing Dre Barnes' mark of 1,347 yards set in 2003.
One of the Best
Rashad Jennings enters the game leading the Big South in rushing yards per game, scoring and all-purpose yards. The senior is averaging 139.1 rushing yards per game, which ranks No. 4 nationally in the statistical category. Jennings also ranks tied for No. 5 in the country in scoring (10.80 points per game) and No. 16 in average all-purpose yards (156.90).
Still One First for Jennings
Despite just becoming the Big South's all-time career leading rusher, Rashad Jennings is still shooting for a conference single-season record. The senior has yet to lead the league in rushing for a year. During his first two years, Jennings has finished just behind two different Keydets. In 2006, he finished two yards behind Sean Mizzer (1,022 to 1,020 yards). Last year, he finished eight yards behind Howard Abegesah (1,121 to 1,113), meaning Jennings has missed the mark by a combined 10 yards over his first two years at Liberty.
Single-Season King
Rashad Jennings enters this weekend's final regular-season match-up having rushed for 16 touchdowns this year. The figure is the highest in Big South history, besting his own mark set last year of 15 rushing touchdowns and is tied for the program record. Lawrence Worthington first ran for 16 touchdowns in 1995.
A Scoring Machine
Last weekend against Gardner-Webb, Rashad Jenning scored his 18th touchdown of the year (16 rushing and two receiving). The 18 scores gives the senior 108 points on the year, setting a new program and Big South record. Jennings, who currently ranks No. 5 nationally in scoring average (10.8 points per game), set a new program and Big South record by recording 104 points to rank No. 6 in scoring (11.33 points per game). Jennings is the only player in program history reach the 100-point mark in consecutive seasons.
Streaking Quarterback Halted
After back-to-back games with 250 or more passing yards, Brock Smith failed to reach the mark against Presbyterian on Nov. 1. He finished the game against the Blue Hose with his lowest completion percentage of the season at 50.0 percent (15-of-30), marking the first time this year the quarterback has failed to finish a game with a competition percentage above the 60 percent mark. The consecutive 250-yard passing performances gave Smith nine for his career, which ranks seventh in program history.
Playing with the Big Boys
Brock Smith's 269 passing yards against Charleston Southern on Oct. 25, his fourth best single-game passing performance in his career. The figure pushed him over the 6,000 career passing mark, making him the fourth quarterback in program and Big South to accomplish the feat. Smith enters today's game with 6,763 career passing yards, with his 226 yards against Gardner-Webb moving him into second place on the Big South's all-time list. During the contest, he surpassed Coastal Carolina's Tyler Thipgen (6,598 yards), who is currently the starting quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, and Gardner-Webb's Nick Roberts (6,690 yards).
Always on the Mark
Brock Smith enters today's game as one of the most efficient passers in the nation. The senior currently ranks No. 7 nationally in passing efficiency, boasting a 162.64 passer ranking. Should the season end today, Smith would finish his career as the most proficient passer in Liberty and Big South history. The senior has a 148.0 career passer efficiency rating, ranking ahead of Charleston Southern's Collin Drafts (134.4) and Liberty's Robby Justino (132.6) in the respective rankings.
A Dynamic Duo
Against Lafayette and Charleston Southern, Jonathan Crawford and Dominic Bolden pulled off a feat no two other wide receivers have in program history. The pair became the 16th receiving duo to surpass the 100 yard receiving mark in the same game against Lafayette. The following weekend, they exceeded the century mark again to become the first pair to do so in consecutive games. Prior to the Lafayette game, the last time two receivers surpassed the 100 yard mark in the same game was against Charleston Southern on Nov. 10, 2001. Adrian Hall (133 yards) and Daniel Thomas (110 yards) did so, helping the Flames down the Buccaneers, 45-31.
Senior's Streak Comes to an End
VMI was the first opponent in four games to keep Dominic Bolden from surpassing the 100-yard receiving mark, as the senior finished the contest with four receptions for 51 yards. Bolden became the fourth player in program history to surpass the 100-yard mark for three straight games, doing so against Lafayette (150 yards), Charleston Southern (117 yards) and Presbyterian (111 yards). The last receiver to surpass the 100-yard mark in three consecutive games was Courtney Freeman in 1997. The program's all-time record for consecutive 100-yard receiving games was set by Pat Nelson at five games over the span of the 1990-91 seasons.
Dominic Demands Notice
Following his third straight 100-yard game giving him five for his career, Dominic Bolden has put himself in the position to add his name to the program's record book. The senior now has 961 receiving yards to his credit, marking the most single-season receiving yards in the last 10 years and the third best single-season performance in program history.
Only two players in program history have finished a season with 1,000 or more receiving yards. Fred Banks finished the 1984 season with 1,029 receiving yards, while Pat Nelson holds the program's single-season record at 1,075 yards set in 1991. Bolden currently leads the Big South and ranks No. 22 nationally by averaging 87.36 receiving yards per game.
Career Day for Crawford
After posting his first 100-yard receiving game against Lafayette, Jonathan Crawford bettered his numbers against Charleston Southern. On Oct. 25, the senior led the Flames with six catches for 124 yards, while two of his six receptions went for touchdowns. The senior now has 683 receiving yards on the year, which is more five times his career total coming into the 2008 season (134 yards on 11 receptions).
Rasberry Rises to the Occasion
Corey Rasberry had a career day against VMI on Nov. 8, catching two passes for 53 yards and a touchdown to help the Flames clinch its second straight Big South title. The senior's first reception was a 19-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter, followed by a career-long reception of 34 yards in the second. The touchdown catch for Rasberry, who came into the game having caught 12 career passes for 124 yards, was his first of any level of organized football.
The Over the Hill Gang
Celebrating the number 40 is often frowned upon, as the 40th birthday is known as moving "over the hill." However, for senior Mike Godsil it is a number of endearment. Against Lafayette, the senior started his 40th-consecutive career game, doing so at center for each game since he joined the roster as a freshman in 2005. Against Presbyterian on Nov. 1, Godsil was joined in the elite club by Patrick Calvary, who started his 40th career game. However, Calvary suffered an injury against the Blue Hose, which kept the senior out of the line-up on Nov. 8 against VMI, ending his streak.
Terrell's Touchdown Run Comes to an End
For the first time in 18 games, Zach Terrell failed to record a rushing touchdown in a game, as the senior finished the Western Carolina game on Sept. 13 with eight carries for 51 yards without finding the end zone. Prior to the game against the Catamounts, the last time Terrell played in a game without rushing for a touchdown was on Sept. 30, 2006, when the then sophomore carried the ball four times for 20 yards without finding the end zone against Wake Forest. Terrell currently ranks third in the Big South and fifth in Liberty's program history with 29 career rushing touchdowns.
The Purpose-Driven Pair
Liberty is the only team at the FCS level to have two players rank in the Top 25 individually in all-purpose running yards. Rashad Jennings leads the Flames, as he is averaging 156.90 all-purpose yards per game, which ranks No. 16 nationally. Dominic Bolden leads the team in total all-purpose yards (1,640), but ranks No. 21 in the country by averaging 149.09 yards per game.
Total Team Effort
The Flames enter today's game with the best scoring defense in the Big South, while ranking No. 23 nationally by allowing a stingy 20.09 points per game. Senior linebacker Nick Hursky leads Liberty's defensive effort and ranks third in the Big South, as he is averaging 8.5 tackles per game. Hursky is followed on the Flames' defensive listing by Chris Rocco (6.4 per game) and Ryan Greiser (6.3). The trio are the lone three Liberty defenders in the conference's Top 30 individual tackles listing this year.
Duo Honored by Big South
Nick Hursky and Ben Shipps' accomplishments in helping the Flames defeat Gardner-Webb, 30-10 last Saturday, did not go unnoticed by the Big South, as the league honored them as players of the week on Monday. Hursky, this week's Defensive Player of the Week, posted his second-highest career tackle total to lead the Flames with 15 stops. Shipps earned Special Teams Player of the Week accolades after setting a new career high with nine points, as he was 2-of-2 on field goals and 3-of-3 on point-after attempts.
Defining the Word Student-Athlete
On Nov. 6, four Liberty starters were named to the ESPN the Magazine CoSIDA Academic District 3 All-District team. Colin Dugan, Ryan Greiser, Dan Pope and Kevin Richard each received the academic distinction, helped in part by having a 3.30 cumulative GPA. The quartet now will move onto the national ballot for voting, which will determine the CoSIDA Academic All-America team, the highest academic honor a NCAA student-athlete can receive.
Rocco Rocketing to the Top
Having finished with a double-figure tackle total in three out of the last five games, defensive back Chris Rocco has quickly ascended to No. 2 on the Flames season tackle list. Rocco is coming off a career day against Gardner-Webb, finishing second on the team with a career high 11 stops, while recording his first two career fumble recoveries. The junior has now recorded 70 tackles on the year, which ranks No. 10 in the Big South among all tacklers and second best among defensive backs.
Torpedo Tim
Tim Torrence gave Liberty's defensive backfield the spark it needed to keep Gardner-Webb's quarterback Devin Campbell in check last weekend. The speedy junior finished third on the team with eight stops, setting a new career high for Torrence, besting his seven tackles against Charleston Southern last year. Equally as important, the defensive back found his way twice into the Bulldogs backfield, resulting in his first two career sacks for a loss of 19 total yards.
Sensational Specialist
Liberty has two of the nation's best return specialists on its roster in seniors Dominic Bolden and Jonathan Crawford. Bolden, who currently ranks No. 10 nationally by averaging 15.27 yards per punt return, is the Big South's all-time leader with 1,369 career kickoff return yards and three kick offs returned for a touchdown. Bolden also ranks atop the program's listing with a 29.1 kickoff return yard average. Bolden's wideout partner Crawford currently ranks tied for No. 12 nationally, as the senior is averaging 26.59 yards per kickoff return. Both return specialists have returned a kickoff and a punt for a touchdown to account for two of three players in Big South history to accomplish the feat.
Against the Nation's Best
The Flames have won their last two match-ups against Top 25 teams, defeating No. 23 Youngstown, 31-28, earlier this year and No. 24 Charleston Southern, 34-20, on Nov. 11, 2006. All-time Liberty is 9-39 against nationally-ranked FCS programs.
Wednesday, May 13
Thursday, May 07
Thursday, April 30
Friday, April 24