Fiesta Bowl Preview: Liberty offense will present some unique looks for Oregon
If this were eight or nine years ago, the Liberty offense wouldn’t be so unique. But the Flames like to run a pass-option offense with a very mobile quarterback that could present some challenges for the Ducks in the Fiesta Bowl on Monday.
It all starts with Kaidon Salter, who is as dangerous with his legs as his arm. At 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, he might remind some Duck fans of a slightly taller Jeremiah Masoli.
Liberty averages 40 points a game and are a perfect 13-0. Salter is responsible for 43 touchdowns; 31 passing and 12 rushing. He’s one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the country and they like to run the option out of multiple sets.
Tailback Quinton Cooley, a transfer from Wake Forest, leads the Flames with 1,322 yards rushing (102 ypg) and 16 touchdowns. Fellow running back, Billy Lucas averages over 50 yards a game and has found the end zone six times this season.
When the Flames throw the ball, Salter usually goes to receiver CJ Daniels, a 6-2, 200-pounder who averages 21 yards per catch. He leads the team with 47 receptions for 988 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Fellow receiver Treon Sibley also averages over 20 yards a catch. He has scored four touchdowns.
Liberty’s offensive line is led by 6-4, 320-pound X’Zauvea Gadlin. He is a First-Team All-Conference player. He’s joined by All-C-USA Second Teamers Jonathan Graham (6-5, 330) and Jordan White (6-2, 295).
Lineman Xavier Grey (6-8, 335) was named as an Honorable Mention.
