Ask the AD tackles FBS Situation

Ask the AD tackles FBS Situation#103105

By Sly Fox - August 19th, 2007, 11:42 pm

- August 19th, 2007, 11:42 pm #103105

I just noticed that the AD added a fresh response to a question about our FBS dreams ...

Question For The Week Of Aug. 13, 2007

Mr. Barber,
I played football during some not so great seasons at Liberty (2002-04). I can't tell you how much it excites me to see how much our program has progressed since then. I believe this is mainly due to the addition of Coach Danny Rocco. As we all know, Dr. Falwell's dream and goal was to take our school's football team to the next level. How realistic is it to believe that one day Liberty will be mentioned in the same breath as, say, Notre Dame? What steps do the school and the football program have to take to reach the FBS level?

Thanks for your time,
Jonathan "Doc" Hanberry
New Orleans, Louisiana
LU Class of '07

Jonathan,

Although the Division I Board of Directors has issued a four-year moratorium permitting institutions from moving within subdivisions until August 2011, I still think it is very possible that one day we will become a member of the FBS. There are several stipulations at this time that are mandated by the NCAA which must be met. Contrary to what many people think, stadium size is not currently a factor but actual or paid attendance is a factor. In addition, other factors to consider are having a team with the talent level to compete in the FBS, offering a particular number of scholarships (department wide) and games versus FBS schools on the road and at home.

We will continue to work as hard as we can to be the best football team we can possibly be with the goal of winning our league and the national championship at the FCS level. That, along with great fan support (season ticket purchases and Flame Club memberships), will allow us the chance to make this happen at the appropriate time.

Jeff Barber