Stat Attack: Liberty
It’s a simple philosophy that just makes sense: do more of what works and less of what doesn’t. If you’re good at something, lean into it. If you’re struggling, minimize the damage. And that’s exactly how Liberty’s offense has operated this season.
The Flames struggle in the passing game, so they’ve largely chosen to avoid airing it out. But their strength is the running game, so they’ve put the ball in their running backs’ hands early and often.
Quarterback Ethan Vasko made the move to Lynchburg from Coastal Carolina, and for the most part, his numbers have looked similar to his time with the Chanticleers. When he does connect on a pass, good things tend to happen – Vasko averages just under 13 yards per completion, which ranks 28th nationally.
The problem? It doesn’t click nearly often enough:
But here’s the thing: the Flames know the passing game isn’t their bread and butter. They’ve identified their strength and committed to it.
Now, “strength” is a relative term here. Because while Liberty ranks 84th nationally in Passing Success Rate, they rank 41st in rushing Success Rate.
Neither number is good or bad enough to wow anyone, but the gap between the two (coupled with the run-focused playcalling) tells you everything you need to know about Liberty’s offensive identity. Through QB sneaks with Vasko and RB Evan Dickens, the Flames have found more consistent success on the ground. And that success, as relative though it may be, justifies their commitment to the run game.
Which brings us to the looming question: will Liberty stick to the script against Louisiana Tech’s rushing defense?
Louisiana Tech presents an interesting challenge for Liberty. The Bulldogs rank 19th in the country in Rushing Success Rate Allowed, stopping the run all season long. Meanwhile, they rank 98th in Passing Success Rate allowed, suggesting the secondary is far more vulnerable.
The Flames have spent all season doing more of what works and less of what doesn’t. But what happens when what works runs head first into a defense seemingly specifically built to stop it? Will Liberty stubbornly stick to their identity, or will they adapt on the fly if Dickens gets stuffed in the backfield one too many times?
Sometimes playing to your strengths is the right call. Sometimes you need to exploit your opponent’s weaknesses. Saturday will tell us which philosophy Liberty believes in more.
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Nathan is also a contributor to gtpdd.dog, a lighthearted Louisiana Tech blog. Be sure to check out @gotechplsdntdie on Twitter.
