Liberty: Patriots hunt for turnovers to stay competitive

During Liberty's practices so far this offseason, coach Steve Valach has kept a vigilant eye on one stat that could go a long way in determining his team's season: turnover margin.

That's right, Valach records every turnover created and every turnover lost during practice. Right now, he points out rather quickly, his group holds a plus four turnover margin, although it should be noted that Valach counts anytime his offense lets the ball hit the ground as a turnover.

For Valach, it's become the calling card of this offseason and the thing that he reiterates daily to his players.

"Are we a powerhouse? Not by any means," he said. "But if we take care of the football and play good defense, we're going to be in a lot of games."

Valach cites turnovers as one of the biggest reasons why his team went 4-6 last year; the Patriots had a minus-15 ratio a year ago. So where does that turnover margin number need to be in order for the Patriots to have a chance this season?

"By the end of the season, if we're in double digits with that ratio, we'll be a playoff team," Valach said.

Valach said his team's meat and potatoes are with the skill position players, who are led by wide receivers Tynan Gilmore (5-10, 165) and Scott Dean (5-10, 170). Those guys will team up with first-year quarterback Robbie Thomas (6-3, 185) to form the core of Liberty's offense.

"Decent team speed and skill position players are a strength," Valach said.

On the flip side, Liberty isn't an exceptionally big team, although the Patriots do return Nick Short (6-1, 210) on the offensive and defensive lines.

"Not a lot of depth," Valach said, "and we're not real big. But we're pretty disciplined and pretty tough so I think that gives us a shot. I think we make up for it with that."

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Liberty: Patriots hunt for turnovers to stay competitive