Liberty Flames:

The Flames are gearing up for the 2024 football season with high expectations under head coach Jamey Chadwell. Coming off a remarkable 2023 season where they posted an undefeated 13-0 record and clinched the C-USA Championship, the Flames are looking to build on their success as they prepare for another year in the conference.

Offense

Junior Kaidon Salter returns as the dynamic leader of the Flames’ offense. Salter’s impressive 2023 campaign included 2,876 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, and 1,089 rushing yards, breaking the school record for rushing yards by a quarterback. He was named the HERO Sports G5 National Player of the Year and earned several other accolades for his outstanding performance​. 

 

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The Flames actually had two 1,000-yard rushers. Salter was one, but RB Quinton Cooley was an absolute stud with 1,401 yards and 16 rushing touchdowns. He’s back in the mix this season and Chadwell may lean more on the run with 1,000-yard receiver CJ Daniels at LSU.

Defense

The defense will be anchored by senior Jahmar Brown and junior Maurice Freeman III now that leading tackler Tyren Dupree is gone. Brown, a transfer, brings experience and leadership, plus he’s familiar with Chadwell as a transfer from Coastal Carolina. 

Seniors Jay Hardy and Rod Daniels will lead the defensive line unit. The secondary is highlighted by junior Eldric Griffin and senior Domnick Hill, with sophomore Dexter Ricks Jr. also expected to contribute significantly​​. Liberty was susceptible to the pass last season, but also led comfortably in a lot of games. They were 119th in passing yards allowed per game, but still finished in the top 50 in scoring defense. 

Outlook

The Flames are poised for another strong season in 2024, driven by a balanced and explosive offense led by Salter and a robust defense with experienced leaders. Liberty’s schedule is ranked near the bottom of FBS, so as long as they navigate that, they should be in contention for a CFP spot. The T Shoe Index projects Liberty atop the conference, with the top offense and second-best defense, getting the Flames to 10 wins this season.

Pick: Under 10.5 Wins