2024 SEASON-IN-REVIEW

Record: 8-4, Loss vs. Buffalo in Bahamas Bowl (26-7)

It was another successful season for Liberty in 2024. It began the season with five consecutive victories before dropping two straight. The Flames put together three more wins before a loss to end the year.

OFFENSE: Vasko Takes Over Strange Offense

Liberty was among the best rushing teams in the nation last year. It was also effective on third down but this did not always lead to touchdowns.

Now, Ethan Vasko comes in to run the offense. The former Chanticleer will need to clear up the turnovers — nine interceptions last season — but is an upgrade throwing the football as a whole.

Vasko will have Elijah Canion to work with on the outside. He is an experienced pass catcher who can be productive at all three levels. Reese Smith takes care of the deep-ball threat while Tyson Mobley will step into an extended role.

The run game took a major hit by losing its top two rushers along with Kaidon Salter. Julian Gray and Caden Williams will get a bulk of the carries behind an offensive line that should be able to do just enough.

DEFENSE: Pass Rush Needs Work

The Flames struggled to get in the backfield and take the ball away. Those are key areas that will have to improve right away this season.

Liberty lost some options that would have helped in this area but hit the portal to retool. This includes Aaron Hester, the Florida State transfer that is expected to bring some power. CJ Bazile will also be in the mix as a player that can get in the backfield.

Joseph Carter returns after leading the team with 88 tackles last season. He is expected to be an All-conference caliber option in the middle of the field.

The secondary has a chance to be a strength, led by cornerbacks Dexter Ricks and Amarian Williams. They combined for five interceptions last season.

2025 LIBERTY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

• Saturday, Aug. 30: vs. Maine
• Saturday, Sept. 6: at Jacksonville State
• Saturday, Sept. 13: at Bowling Green
• Saturday, Sept. 20: vs. James Madison
• Saturday, Sept. 27: at Old Dominion
• Wednesday, Oct. 8: at UTEP
• Tuesday, Oct. 14: vs. New Mexico State
• Saturday, Nov. 1: vs. Delaware
• Saturday, Nov. 8: vs. Missouri State
• Saturday, Nov. 15: at FIU
• Saturday, Nov. 22: at Louisiana Tech
• Saturday, Nov. 29: vs. Kennesaw State