November 22, 2023
In a season filled with achievements, the 25th-ranked Liberty Flames find themselves at a pivotal moment as they clash with UTEP this Saturday in El Paso, Texas. The undefeated Flames, led by coach Jamey Chadwell, recently secured a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings, elevating the stakes for their upcoming matchup.
The Flames' focus on the present moment and staying hungry is evident in Coach Chadwell's words: "For us, our challenge is can we continue to stay hungry and not look ahead and stay in the moment?" This mindset becomes crucial as they strive to maintain their undefeated record and navigate the challenging late-season schedule.
Reference: VTCNG
The Flames, boasting an impressive 11-0 record in Conference USA, have their sights set on securing a Group of 5 selection for an upper-tier bowl game. A potential Group of 5 showdown with Tulane looms on the horizon, and Liberty aims to bolster its credentials in case the Green Wave falters.
Coach Chadwell acknowledges the need to avoid conservative play and elevate the team's intensity, especially in a month filled with distractions and shifting dynamics. The Flames look to deliver their best performance as they inch closer to a possible playoff berth.
Running back Quinton Cooley emerges as a key player in Liberty's quest for success. Cooley, with seven games of 100 or more rushing yards, has become a force to be reckoned with. His 1,168 rushing yards for the season mark a historic achievement, standing as the most by a Liberty player in nine years. The Wake Forest transfer has seamlessly integrated into the Flames' system, becoming a linchpin in their offensive strategy.
UTEP, though facing a challenging season with an overall record of 3-8, is determined to stage an upset on their Senior Day. The Miners, led by coach Dana Dimel, are hungry for redemption after a close loss to Middle Tennessee last week.
The Flames must navigate the unique challenges of a lengthy trip and a two-hour time difference as they venture to UTEP. Coach Chadwell's emphasis on overcoming these challenges underscores the team's commitment to maintaining their undefeated streak.
As Liberty's football journey unfolds, all eyes are on Quinton Cooley and his teammates as they strive for victory in the heart of Texas. Can the Flames conquer UTEP and solidify their position in the CFP rankings? The answer lies in the hands of Coach Chadwell, Quinton Cooley, and the entire Liberty squad as they embark on this crucial showdown.
Reference: VTCNG
Image courtesy: Liberty Flames Athletics