“Give me liberty or give me death” said Patrick Henry in his 1775 speech that helped rally support for the American Revolution. While I do like Liberty in this matchup, there’s no need to go to such extremes as Mr. Henry. In fact, both teams will likely find paydirt often enough to make a play on the total look more inviting than taking a side like the favored Liberty.
The Liberty Flames enter this matchup with a well-earned 3-1 record, their only loss coming on the road against 2025 College Football Playoff participant James Madison. In their three victories, Liberty scored at least 24 points each time while outscoring opponents 109-55. Quarterback Deshawn Purdie has helped lead the way with 779 passing yards and seven touchdowns, fueling an offense that has already piled up 1,645 total yards and 30.5 points per game. Still, this may be one of their toughest tests yet on the road against a Delaware defense that won't make moving the ball come easily.
Delaware can be described as a well-balanced team. The Blue Hens have accumulated 1,440 total yards through four games, averaging 360 yards per contest, and have scored 12 total touchdowns with six coming on the ground and six through the air. While their 23.3 points per game may not stand out at first glance, they've faced plenty of tough competition, including road trips to Vanderbilt and Virginia. In my opinion, Delaware and Liberty are two well-rounded, tough, and balanced squads that match up nicely. When they collide on Friday night, I see plenty of sparks flying and enough scoring opportunities to make the over a very attractive look.
Delaware vs Liberty prediction: Over 49.5 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable to 50.5 (-110).
