Fan the Flames Football Preview Game #4: Jacksonville State

After making their first foray into the state of Texas in the 21st century, the Liberty Flames return home to the friendly confines of Williams Stadium for what is probably the biggest nonconference matchup in recent memory.

The Flames fell in a game that was much closer than the final score indicated 29-14 to the SMU Mustangs from the American Athletic Conference from Division I-A/FBS. Starter Stephon Masha struggled in the first half, throwing two interceptions in the first three possessions. True freshman Stephen Calvert came in in the second half and led the Flames to a second half TD, which was also the first of his career, hitting senior Dante Shells to cut the deficit to 5 points. a field goal and a late pick 6 provided the final nargin.

Once again the Flames struggled to move the ball, finishing with only 280 yards of offense, 97 of which came via the ground, the week after the Flames rushed for over 300 yards.

No rest for the weary though because this week is a big statement game for the boys from Lynchburg:

 #4 Jacksonville State 2-1 (0-0 Ohio Valley)

vs.

Liberty 1-2 (0-0 Big South)

Matchup

Location: Williams Stadium Lynchburg, VA

Series: First Meeting

Last Meeting: First Meeting

Kickoff: 7:00 PM

Radio: The Journey FM Radio Network/Liberty Flames Sports Network (Liberty) Alan York play-by-play; Jacksonville State Gamecock Sports Network Dolphins. Mike Parris play-by-play

Television: Liberty Flames Sports Network/ESPN3 Mike Tilley play-by play

Coaches: Turner Gill (5th Season at Liberty 29-20 Record), John Grass (3rd Season at JSU, 22-3 Record)

Last Week: W 27-26 vs. Coastal Carolina, Liberty 14-29 L vs. SMU