Flames Football gears up for season of firsts; home opener on Saturday

With the first matchup set for Saturday in Williams Stadium against Bowling Green State University, Liberty University Football and Head Coach Jamey Chadwell will embark on a 2023 season full of “firsts.”

Saturday will mark not only the first game of Chadwell’s coaching career at Liberty but also the first time that the Flames will compete as a member of Conference USA. Prior to joining the conference this season, Liberty spent five years as an FBS Independent after moving from FCS designation in 2018.

Chadwell was announced as Liberty’s head coach in December. He came to Liberty Mountain after serving as head coach at Coastal Carolina University.

“We do believe we have the best home field advantage in Conference USA,” Chadwell said. “Tickets are going fast. We are hoping for a sellout. So, I would encourage everybody that cares about Liberty and college football, we’re going to have a great opportunity with this team and what we’re building. You’ve got a great opportunity to be part of history, with (Liberty’s) first time being in a conference. I’d encourage you to go out and buy tickets. We’re selling fast. Selling like hot cakes.”

During a press conference on Tuesday, players expressed excitement at the opportunity to begin the 2023 campaign on a high note.

“This is what we work for,” said wide receiver Noah Frith, who is entering his sixth and final season as a Flame. “Football is a crazy sport. You work year-round, all year busting tail to play 12 times (each season). I’m super excited, especially in my last season. I’ve been thinking about this week for years. This is my last week of having a first game and first week, but I can’t be more excited.”

Senior defensive tackle Kendy Charles, who recorded 5.5 sacks last season, said he is looking forward to seeing his new teammates experience game day at Williams Stadium for the first time.

“We have the best fans in the country, in all of football in my opinion, because I’ve never played a game here, outside of COVID, where the stands were empty,” he said. “There is great support every game. I told (my teammates) that there will always be fans supporting us through the ups and downs.”

More than 15,000 fans are expected at Saturday’s game, which kicks off at noon. In addition to the game itself, fans will be treated to the unveiling of the Spirit of the Mountain marching band’s 2023 pregame and halftime shows.

Game ticket holders are also invited to take part in Flames Fan Fest at each home game, which begins two and a half hours prior to kickoff and ends 30 minutes before the game starts. This event, which is located in the Liberty Indoor Practice Facility, provides fun for the whole family with balloon animals, lawn games, inflatables and more, plus possible appearances by Sparky and the Liberty Cheerleaders.

Williams Stadium will have overflow student and Flames Kids Club seating on the berm at the southside of the stadium, a feature that was introduced at the end of last season.

The Flames Club’s Tailgate Town is returning for the second year in front of Gate 1, providing fans with the opportunity to purchase catered food. Food Truck Alley will feature 12 vendors for a variety of game day dining.

Tickets are available at LibertyFlames.com. Those unable to attend in person can watch on CBS Sports Network or follow along through the Liberty Flames app.