Liberty Flames Football: Previewing the Clash with Sam Houston

In the heart of their sensational 4-0 start to the 2023 football season, the Liberty Flames took a brief respite during their first bye week. But before they enjoyed the well-deserved break, the team gathered at the Media Room in the Liberty Football Center for a glimpse into their upcoming showdown with Sam Houston. In this exclusive sneak peek, we delve into the Flames' stellar performance, highlighting key players like Quinton Cooley and their dominance in CUSA play.

New Opponents on the Horizon

One of the most intriguing aspects of this year's Liberty football schedule is the introduction of three first-time opponents, with Sam Houston being one of them. The Flames have never crossed paths with the Bearkats on the gridiron, adding an element of excitement and unpredictability to the matchup. Alongside Sam Houston, Liberty will also face off against Louisiana Tech and UTEP for the first time this season.

Liberty's CUSA Dominance

As Liberty embarks on its inaugural season of Conference USA (CUSA) play, they have already made a significant impact. Sitting at a pristine 2-0 record within the conference, the Flames have emerged victorious in their last 10 CUSA matchups, a streak that signifies their growing prowess in collegiate football. The last time a team achieved this level of success in their first three CUSA contests was Southern Miss back in 1996 when they started 4-0. The Flames are undoubtedly making history.

A Historic 4-0 Start

The Flames' 4-0 start to the season has left fans and analysts alike in awe. What makes this feat even more remarkable is that all four victories came with double-digit margins, showcasing the team's dominance on the field. This marks the first time in Liberty football history that they have managed such an impressive start to a season.

Kaidon Salter's Remarkable Performance

Quarterback Kaidon Salter has been instrumental in Liberty's success. Named CUSA Offensive Player of the Week twice in a row, Salter's contributions cannot be overstated. In Liberty's commanding 38-6 victory over FIU, he accounted for four touchdowns - two passing and two rushing. This performance mirrored his season average of 4.0 touchdowns per game, cementing his status as a key playmaker for the Flames.

The Dynamic Duo: Quinton Cooley and Billy Lucas

Running backs Quinton Cooley and Billy Lucas have been lighting up the field for Liberty. During the FIU game, both players surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark, demonstrating their ability to carry the team when needed most. Together, they have propelled the Flames to a national ranking of No. 2 in rushing, amassing an impressive average of 271.2 yards per game. Their dynamic running has become a hallmark of Liberty's offense.

Turnover-Driven Defensive Success

While the offense has been firing on all cylinders, the Flames' defense has been equally impressive. The team currently leads the nation in interceptions with 10 and ranks second in turnovers gained with 12. In each of their four games this season, the defense has managed to create multiple takeaways, a testament to their resilience and skill. These turnovers have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in the team's early-season dominance.

Conclusion

As the Liberty Flames prepare to face Sam Houston for the first time in program history, they do so with an unblemished record and a team firing on all cylinders. With standout performances from players like Kaidon Salter, Quinton Cooley, and a formidable defense, Liberty football is undoubtedly making waves in the 2023 season. The Flames' journey continues, and fans eagerly anticipate each thrilling matchup that lies ahead.