Flames News

Rocco Weekly Press Conference: VMI

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Liberty reeled off its fourth-straight win and its second-consecutive home victory where it scored 50 or more points, when the Flames upended Presbyterian, 55-19, Saturday afternoon, at Williams Stadium.

The victory pushed the Flames conference winning streak to 14-straight games, which is the third-longest active FCS conference winning streak in the country.

During his weekly press conference from inside the Donor Room of the Williams Football Operation Center, head coach Danny Rocco reflected on the victory over the Blue Hose and the upcoming matchup with in-state foe VMI.

Below are the numerous subjects Rocco touched upon during the 30-minute press conference:
• Opened by talking about the team's adjusted schedule today, as the University cancelled classes for Election Day
• Recapped Liberty's 36-point victory over Presbyterian, where he talked about the team's intensity, Liberty's physical dominance, the high level of play from quarterback Tommy Beecher, the solid performance of the offensive line to open up running lanes and the continued use of Mike Brown at various positions on the field
• Previewed the VMI game, talking about his increased level of respect for Keydets head coach Sparky Woods and the student-athletes who come through the VMI program
• Talked about his responsibility to keep his team motivated throughout the Flames current Big South winning streak and the fact that the team controls their own destiny down the stretch with regards to the Big South title
• Was asked to talk about the development of quarterback Tommy Beecher into more than just someone who can manage the Flames' offense
• Spoke about trying to find ways to get running back Danny Broggin into the game after Broggin did not winning the starting job at running back after training camp
• Responded to a question about the increased use of tight end Will Quarles and how he has developed as a player and person since joining the program
• Commented on this year's senior class and what they have met to the football program
• Talked about the use of the scout team and how important the role of the scout team is when preparing for a unique offensive style like VMI
• Spoke about the importance of getting some playing time for some of his younger players during the Presbyterian game
• Asked if he was surprised with the outcome of last week's VMI and Charleston Southern game and what he has seen from the game film that is helping the Flames prepare for this week's game
• Was asked if it is more important to get off to a good start against VMI considering their unique style of offense
• Provided an injury update, including the playing status of Greg Schuster, B.J. Hayes and Larry Claiborne
• Spoke about the possibility of being able to take a look downfield in the passing game considering some of VMI's struggles this year in pass defense
• Talked about what type of difficulties VMI's running back Howard Abegesah presents to the Flames defense
• Asked to talk about how he has been able to keep his program focused during the program's current Big South winning streak
• Responded to a question about Liberty's rise in the national polls this past week and how important a significant jump in the polls could be for the Flames later this season