Liberty prepares for the regional finals

By Shane Mettlen

Published: November 21, 2008

When Liberty plays host to George Washington-Danville tonight at 7:30 for the Northwest Regional Championship, the Eagles know they will have to focus on stopping GW’s potent rushing attack.

George Washington (7-4) quarterback Tim Moore threw for just 206 yards and no touchdowns in the regular season, but the Western Valley District powerhouse features two of the best running backs in the state.

Virginia Tech-bound tailback David Wilson, who is also one of the nation’s best triple jumpers, has rushed for 2,100 yards this season to lead all ball carriers in Virginia. But Wilson hasn’t done it alone. Fullback Tahron Goods has 1,147 rushing yards and is averaging more than seven yards per carry.

Something will have to give in this contest. Liberty (9-2) is 4-0 this season at Kip Hull Stadium and GW-Danville has won all six of its games away from home.
Here’s a quick look at tonight’s game:

Location: Kip Hull Stadium, Bealeton

How they got here: Liberty beat William Fleming, 35-6. GW-Danville defeated Brooke Point 27-21.

Coaches: Tommy Buzzo has Liberty back in the playoffs after a four-year absence. GW’s Dan Newell has returned the once-proud program, which has produced former Lions Pro Bowler Herman Moore and Virginia Tech running back Kenny Lewis, among others, to prominence in the Western Valley District.

Key Players: Liberty quarterback Nick Potts threw three touchdowns Saturday in the victory at William Fleming. Corey Lillard is a standout on both offense and defense and Kory Gough will be blocking for Wilson at Virginia Tech. Cortez Carter sparked the Liberty defense with a fumble recovery for a touchdown last week.

GW’s Wilson has rushed for more than 330 yards on two occasions this season and scored seven touchdowns in a game against Motoaca.