NC State opens as 3-point favorite against Liberty

NC State’s lone non-conference game doesn’t figure to be a walk in the park, what with Liberty coming into this week 8-0, an unblemished record that includes two road wins at ACC schools (Syracuse, Virginia Tech). The Wolfpack opened a modest field goal favorite over the Flames.

Hugh Freeze is in the second year of his tenure/career revitalization project and most don’t figure he’ll be at Liberty too much longer, as he’s done enough to get back into the good graces of a power-conference school somewhere.

The Flames’ offense has been their biggest strength this season, led by former Auburn quarterback Malik Willis, who has 700 yards rushing in seven games played. As a team, Liberty averages about 255 yards rushing per game, on 5.7 per carry. The Flames want to run the ball first and foremost, though Willis has been good through the air, averaging 9.1 yards per attempt with 15 touchdowns against just one interception.

These guys will be a tough out.