Buffalo Can Their Strong Offense Prevail? Liberty Navigating Key Losses
2025 Bahamas Bowl Preview: Buffalo Bulls vs. Liberty Flames
The 2025 Bahamas Bowl brings together the Buffalo Bulls (8-4, 6-2 MAC) and the Liberty Flames (8-3, 5-3 CUSA) in a thrilling clash on January 4 at Thomas A. Robinson Stadium in Nassau, Bahamas. Both teams enter the game with different trajectories: Buffalo, winners of four straight, looks to continue their hot streak, while Liberty, reeling from a tough loss in their regular-season finale, must adjust after key player departures. With both squads dealing with injuries and personnel changes, this matchup promises to be a fascinating one.
Buffalo Bulls: Can Strong Offense and Defense Hold Up?
Buffalo enters the 2025 Bahamas Bowl with momentum, having won four straight games, including a dominant 43-7 win over Kent State in their regular-season finale. However, despite their strong offensive showing, Buffalo has had a hard time controlling the defensive side of the ball, which could prove problematic against Liberty’s high-powered offense.
Offensively, Buffalo relies heavily on quarterback C.J. Ogbonna, who passed for 2,244 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions this season. Al-Jay Henderson provides the ground game, leading the team with 959 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns. Meanwhile, Victor Snow has been a consistent target in the passing game with 51 receptions, 610 yards, and 6 touchdowns.
Defensively, linebacker Shaun Dolac has been a standout, with 159 tackles, while Kobe Stewart has been a menace in the backfield with 9.5 sacks. Dolac also leads the team in interceptions with 5, contributing to a Buffalo defense that’s been opportunistic despite allowing plenty of yards.
The Bulls’ defensive struggles will be tested against Liberty’s powerful ground game. If Buffalo’s defense continues to allow big plays, it could be a tough battle, even with their explosive offense leading the charge.
Liberty Flames: Overcoming Key Losses and Adjusting to Injuries
Liberty enters the Bahamas Bowl in a tough spot, having been dealt a heart-wrenching 20-18 loss to Sam Houston State in their final regular-season game. That defeat snapped a three-game win streak and placed the Flames in a challenging position heading into the bowl game. Adding to their challenges, Liberty will be without several key players, including their starting quarterback Kaidon Slater and running back Quinton Cooley, both of whom have made significant contributions this season.
Slater, who has passed for 1,886 yards and 15 touchdowns this season, is headed to Colorado after entering the transfer portal, leaving a major void in the Flames’ offense. Backup quarterback Ryan Burger, who has only 48 passing yards this season, will take the reins under center. Burger’s lack of experience at Liberty could limit the Flames’ offensive playbook, though he does bring experience from his time at Appalachian State.
In addition, Liberty will be without their star running back Quinton Cooley, who rushed for 1,254 yards and 13 touchdowns. Cooley’s decision to prepare for the NFL draft leaves Billy Lucas as the team’s top running back. Lucas, who has 663 rushing yards, will be expected to carry the load against Buffalo’s defense. The Flames’ passing game will likely lean on Treon Sibley, who has caught 499 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Despite these personnel losses, Liberty’s ground game remains a formidable force, ranking second nationally in rushing yards per game. If they can establish the run early, the Flames will be in a strong position to control the game and keep Buffalo’s offense off the field.
Conclusion
While Buffalo enters the Bahamas Bowl with the advantage in terms of offensive firepower, Liberty’s strength lies in its ability to control the game on the ground. With Buffalo’s defense struggling, especially in terms of stopping the run, Liberty’s running backs—led by Billy Lucas—could dominate the time of possession and wear down the Bulls’ defense.
Unlock Winning Insights!
As the Buffalo and Liberty battle it out, make sure you have the best information at your fingertips. Our data packages provide in-depth analysis and statistics that can help you make informed decisions and increase your chances of winning big this season!
Don’t miss out! Click the button below to explore our data packages and elevate your game strategy today!
