Liberty Flames Spring Recap: What to Expect in 2024

By Luke Probasco from The G5 Hive

Welcome to the G5 Hive and our Worker Bee Series, where we dive deep into the G5 college football landscape by talking to those who know the teams best. Today, we focus on the Liberty Flames, who finished an impressive 13-1 last season and represented the G5 in the New Year’s Six. Having just wrapped up their 2024 spring practice with a spring game on March 2nd, we’re excited to welcome our special guest, Jon Manson, founder and sports reporter for A Sea of Red.

Reflecting on the previous season, Jon shared, “It was a lot of fun watching those replays and brought back a lot of memories for Liberty fans. It was a fun year under Coach Chadwell, his first year with him at the helm, and it was a great start to his tenure.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5T9Bny19Bg

Returning Coaching Staff and Team Consistency

With the coaching staff returning for year two, we asked Jon about any new wrinkles introduced on offense or defense. He responded, “I don’t think there will be many changes on the offensive side. Kaidon Salter returns at quarterback along with key returners across all positions. However, defensively, there will be some changes. Coach Chadwell mentioned that Liberty played a lot of man coverage in ’23. This year, we’ll see more zone due to personnel changes, especially after losing some corners to P5 schools through the portal.”

Lessons from the Fiesta Bowl

Reflecting on Liberty’s New Year’s Six matchup against Oregon, Jon highlighted the coaching staff’s main takeaway: “Oregon’s speed was unmatched. Liberty couldn’t keep up, especially on defense. Moving forward, improving speed, particularly on defense, will be crucial for Liberty to compete at that level.”

Player Updates: Injuries and Recovery

Last preseason, there was significant buzz around running back Vaughn Blue, who unfortunately suffered a shoulder injury in week three. Jon updated us on his status: “Blue did return at the end of the season and played briefly in the conference championship game and the Fiesta Bowl. He suffered another injury this spring but should be good to go by training camp. Liberty expects a lot from him in Coach Chadwell’s offense.”

Depth Concerns and Key Positions

Discussing the biggest drop-off from starters to backups, Jon noted, “The defensive line and wide receiver positions are areas of concern. Liberty struggled with injuries at receiver last year and lost key players like C.J. Daniels to transfer. On the defensive side, depth on the line is always a challenge at the G5 level.”

Transfer Portal Impact

Jon also addressed the effects of the transfer portal, particularly Kaidon Salter testing the waters before deciding to return. “It was a brief period, and I don’t think it will affect team chemistry. Salter has shown leadership and commitment this spring.”

Offensive Standouts and Expectations

Running back Quinton Cooley had an impressive season, rushing for over 1,400 yards and 16 touchdowns. Jon expects a balanced backfield this season, saying, “If Blue and Lucas stay healthy, touches will be more evenly distributed. Cooley remains the lead back, but expect a more hybrid role with multiple contributors.”

Wide Receiver Concerns

With significant turnover at wide receiver, Jon highlighted some potential standouts: “Tyson Mobley made a great impression in the spring game. Donte Lee, a transfer from Division II Shaw, has the potential to be a go-to receiver. However, Liberty will likely look to the spring transfer portal to bolster this position.”

Tight End Utilization

Tight end Bentley Hanshaw emerged as a red-zone threat last season. Jon expects the entire tight end room to play a significant role: “Hanshaw, along with Austin Henderson and Jacob Jenkins, form a veteran group. They can be crucial safety valves for Salter, especially with questions at receiver.”

As Liberty looks ahead to the 2024 season, maintaining the momentum from last year’s success will be key. With a solid returning core and strategic adjustments, the Flames are poised to make another strong run in the G5 landscape.