Florida Atlantic University hit rock bottom in their program's history this past Saturday night. FAU lost 41-7 on Saturday night to Florida International University in the most embarrassing effort in the program's history. FAU has dominated the Shula Bowl in the past. FAU came into the game 8-1 against FIU.
FAU not only was overmatched, but were clearly out coached. They had multiple personal fouls and mental errors, such as false starts and illegal formations. The team lacked discipline throughout the game. Senior Defensive End Jamere Johnson was thrown out of the game for bumping an official in the 4th quarter. Howard Schnellenberger apologized to FAU's students, fans, and the university for the effort against FIU.
Heading into half-time FAU was down 31-0, with the nail in the coffin coming from a 97 yard punt return by T.Y. Hilton. FAU looks to be heading towards a winless season. With New Mexico winning this past weekend FAU is now the only winless team in the nation.
This season can be attributed to a lack of recruitment. FAU continually has been at the bottom of the Sun Belt in recruitment classes the past few seasons. This is unacceptable due to the recruiting depth in South Florida. This could be due to playing in Lockhart Stadium, but it seems it might be beyond that. FAU has been out coached every game this year. Only one game has been close during the losing streak that is over the course of two years now.
A season that was supposed to be a celebration to welcome a new era to FAU has become a disaster. Howard Schnellenberger brought the new stadium to campus, but may never win a game there.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Shula Bowl
Florida Atlantic University has a chance to continue their dominance over Florida International University in the Shula Bowl today. FAU took the game last year against the eventual conference champions. FIU comes in as 18.5 point favorites, but this could be the game FAU is able to put a victory on the board. FAU needs keep in check TY Hilton or this game could get ugly for FAU.
Last week Graham Wilbert saw all but one drive against Arkansas State. If Wilbert comes out struggles look for FAU to insert Redshirt Freshman Stephen Curtis. With a victory FAU could put FIU's bowl hopes in jeopardy. FIU is coming off a loss from the surprising Western Kentucky Hilltoppers.
This could be the game FAU finds a victory, but I do not see that happening. FIU has the best player in the conference with TY Hilton. Hilton has a chance to score every time he touches the ball. FAU does keep the game close, but in the end FIU pulls away in the 4th quarter.
Prediction:
FIU 34 FAU 17
Last week Graham Wilbert saw all but one drive against Arkansas State. If Wilbert comes out struggles look for FAU to insert Redshirt Freshman Stephen Curtis. With a victory FAU could put FIU's bowl hopes in jeopardy. FIU is coming off a loss from the surprising Western Kentucky Hilltoppers.
This could be the game FAU finds a victory, but I do not see that happening. FIU has the best player in the conference with TY Hilton. Hilton has a chance to score every time he touches the ball. FAU does keep the game close, but in the end FIU pulls away in the 4th quarter.
Prediction:
FIU 34 FAU 17
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
A Sad Ending to Paterno
Joe Paterno's career might be about to come to end at the University of Penn State. But it will not be the farewell tour many would have thought. Bobby Bowden was forced out at Florida State, but he was able to say good bye to the sport he coached for so many years.
For Paterno this comes under much different circumstances. Penn St. has not enjoyed the success on the field like they have in the past. In 2002 former coach Jerry Sandusky sexually assaulted a young boy in the shower around the age of ten. This was during a football camp at State College and then Graduate Assistant walked in in the assault Mike McQueary. McQueary still is on staff at the university as Wide Receivers coach.
Paterno who testified in the grand jury hearings and is not a target of the investigation. Paterno though has been chastised by the Police Commissioner by not doing anything to stop the abuse. Sandusky has had a retirement package since 1999 with the university including having a parking spot and working out on campus until last weekend.
The University continued to let Sandusky run his sport camps at the Behrend Campus just outside Erie through 2008. The camp aimed for kids from 4th grade to high school.
As details to continue to come out about the knowledge Paterno had about Sandusky's sexual assault could be extremely important how Paterno is remembered. Paterno brought Penn St. to the forefront in College Football and has the most wins all time among head coaches. Joe Paterno may not get the farewell that his career deserves, but if he had knowledge of the these actions by his former assistant coach it may be what his farewell deserves to be.
For Paterno this comes under much different circumstances. Penn St. has not enjoyed the success on the field like they have in the past. In 2002 former coach Jerry Sandusky sexually assaulted a young boy in the shower around the age of ten. This was during a football camp at State College and then Graduate Assistant walked in in the assault Mike McQueary. McQueary still is on staff at the university as Wide Receivers coach.
Paterno who testified in the grand jury hearings and is not a target of the investigation. Paterno though has been chastised by the Police Commissioner by not doing anything to stop the abuse. Sandusky has had a retirement package since 1999 with the university including having a parking spot and working out on campus until last weekend.
The University continued to let Sandusky run his sport camps at the Behrend Campus just outside Erie through 2008. The camp aimed for kids from 4th grade to high school.
As details to continue to come out about the knowledge Paterno had about Sandusky's sexual assault could be extremely important how Paterno is remembered. Paterno brought Penn St. to the forefront in College Football and has the most wins all time among head coaches. Joe Paterno may not get the farewell that his career deserves, but if he had knowledge of the these actions by his former assistant coach it may be what his farewell deserves to be.
Monday, November 7, 2011
FAU Falls Flat
Florida Atlantic football fell to 0-8 this past weekend against after losing 39 to 21 to Arkansas State. This was the Homecoming game for FAU against the Sun Belt leading ASU. FAU came into the game 17 1/2 point underdogs. FAU played tough through 3 quarters including take a 21 to 18 lead in the 3rd quarter, but everything fell apart after that. It was the first lead FAU has held in a game since they lead Auburn 3-0.
Graham Wilbert took most of the snaps during the game that many thought Stephen Curtis would begin to see more action. Curtis only had one drive during the game. The star on the offensive side of the ball was once again Alfred Morris who had 163 yards rushing and two touchdowns on the ground.
ASU jumped out to an early 15-0 nothing lead in the first quarter. QB Ryan Aplin had a stellar performance with 249 yards passing and 5 total touchdowns for the Red Wolves. Aplin was able to keep the FAU off balance who was inconsistent throughout the game.
FAU continues to be winless this year and will head back to the road for the Shula Bowl this week. FAU has a chance to break the winless streak to a team that FAU has dominated in the history of the match-up.
Graham Wilbert took most of the snaps during the game that many thought Stephen Curtis would begin to see more action. Curtis only had one drive during the game. The star on the offensive side of the ball was once again Alfred Morris who had 163 yards rushing and two touchdowns on the ground.
ASU jumped out to an early 15-0 nothing lead in the first quarter. QB Ryan Aplin had a stellar performance with 249 yards passing and 5 total touchdowns for the Red Wolves. Aplin was able to keep the FAU off balance who was inconsistent throughout the game.
FAU continues to be winless this year and will head back to the road for the Shula Bowl this week. FAU has a chance to break the winless streak to a team that FAU has dominated in the history of the match-up.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Game of the Century
When Louisiana State and the University of Alabama face off Saturday at 8 PM it will be a match-up of the top two teams in the country. Many are calling this the game of the century like they did when Notre Dame and Florida State faced off in 1993.
This will be must watch television because the level of talent on both schools rosters. This game may end deciding the national championship if the winner can get through the rest of the brutal SEC schedule.
My Prediction:
LSU 27 Alabama 23
This will be must watch television because the level of talent on both schools rosters. This game may end deciding the national championship if the winner can get through the rest of the brutal SEC schedule.
My Prediction:
LSU 27 Alabama 23
Monday, October 31, 2011
Time for Curtis?
Florida Atlantic University football team did not lose this past weekend as they were on a bye week. This brings into question is it time to make the move to Stephen Curtis as the starting QB. With David Kooi and Graham Wilbert have not gotten any better as the season has progressed. The offense is in the bottom ten of most offensive categories.
With this being Homecoming week for FAU this could be potentially the last good crowd of the year against Sun Belt Leaders Arkansas State. This could be a welcoming environment to give Curtis his first career start.
Curtis was the prize of the recruitment class of 2010 a three star recruit coming out of Sumter, South Carolina. Curtis adds a dimension to the offense that the other two quarterbacks do not offer. Curtis was a duel threat QB in High School and strings that potential in college.
If anything this could give a shot of life that this offense desperately needs. The offense has been stagnant every game this season. Curtis may not be able to run the table, but he brings potential to an offense that has not gotten any better throughout this season.
With this being Homecoming week for FAU this could be potentially the last good crowd of the year against Sun Belt Leaders Arkansas State. This could be a welcoming environment to give Curtis his first career start.
Curtis was the prize of the recruitment class of 2010 a three star recruit coming out of Sumter, South Carolina. Curtis adds a dimension to the offense that the other two quarterbacks do not offer. Curtis was a duel threat QB in High School and strings that potential in college.
If anything this could give a shot of life that this offense desperately needs. The offense has been stagnant every game this season. Curtis may not be able to run the table, but he brings potential to an offense that has not gotten any better throughout this season.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Dreadful
Florida Atlantic University took in the chin once again this year against Middle Tennessee State this past Saturday. FAU is now losers of ten straight dating back to last year. Only them and New Mexico are the only other winless schools in the nation. FAU went down early in this game by giving up three touchdowns on MTSU's first three possessions. While FAU's stagnant offense struggled in the first quarter with Graham Wilbert once again starting.
Alfred Morris had 148 yards rushing on the game, but that was overshadowed by his two costly fumbles. Graham Wilbert once again struggled going 10 for 24 yards for 104 yards with 1 TD and a interception.
The defense gave up just under 500 yards of offense and struggled to slow down MTSU. MTSU had a very balance attacked running for 187 and passing for 292. They completed passes to 11 different receivers. It left FAU's defense struggling throughout the entire game.
The one bright spot could be the play of Stephen Curtis. Curtis went 4 of 5 passing for 32 yards. The Owls have a bye week. This could not be coming at a better time for FAU after the past poor performances the past few games. After the last by week FAU played the their best game of the year against Auburn. They will need because they play Arkansas State for Homecoming currently first place in the Sun Belt Conference.
Alfred Morris had 148 yards rushing on the game, but that was overshadowed by his two costly fumbles. Graham Wilbert once again struggled going 10 for 24 yards for 104 yards with 1 TD and a interception.
The defense gave up just under 500 yards of offense and struggled to slow down MTSU. MTSU had a very balance attacked running for 187 and passing for 292. They completed passes to 11 different receivers. It left FAU's defense struggling throughout the entire game.
The one bright spot could be the play of Stephen Curtis. Curtis went 4 of 5 passing for 32 yards. The Owls have a bye week. This could not be coming at a better time for FAU after the past poor performances the past few games. After the last by week FAU played the their best game of the year against Auburn. They will need because they play Arkansas State for Homecoming currently first place in the Sun Belt Conference.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Another Loss
Beyond the opening of the stadium Florida Atlantic gave another disappointing performance against Western Kentucky this past Saturday. It is clear FAU lacks talent on the offensive side of the ball. They lack any explosiveness to create big plays they need to succeed. FAU only managed 121 yards of offense a similar performance against Michigan State.
Kooi playing for the injured Graham Wilbert was ineffective. Kooi held the ball to long and could not find any open receivers down field. Redshirt Freshman Stephen Curtis got his first action of his career, but could not move the team down the field either.
FAU has looked lost on offense the past couple of games and doesn't leave much hope for the rest of the season. The first BCS rankings came out and they are ranked #117 out of 119 teams. FAU may look to get Stephen Curtis more action because Kooi and Wilbert have been mostly ineffective. Wilbert was a three star recruit coming out of South Carolina and could add another dimension to the offense with his ability to run the ball.
Kooi playing for the injured Graham Wilbert was ineffective. Kooi held the ball to long and could not find any open receivers down field. Redshirt Freshman Stephen Curtis got his first action of his career, but could not move the team down the field either.
FAU has looked lost on offense the past couple of games and doesn't leave much hope for the rest of the season. The first BCS rankings came out and they are ranked #117 out of 119 teams. FAU may look to get Stephen Curtis more action because Kooi and Wilbert have been mostly ineffective. Wilbert was a three star recruit coming out of South Carolina and could add another dimension to the offense with his ability to run the ball.
Monday, October 17, 2011
The Day Finally Came!
Florida Atlantic opened their new on campus stadium this past Saturday against Western Kentucky in front of 29,000 fans. They took the loss 20-0, which put a sour note on the game. The day was more important than the outcome of the game. FAU took to the stage for the first time in a place that they could truly call home in front of what could potentially become a hostile place to play.
The stadium is a gem with great ambiances that you cannot find in most college football stadiums. FAU now has a place they can bring recruits to a stadium that they do not have to avoid from showing off. They can bring the future coaching candidates here to prove that FAU once again can win.
It set the stage that FAU is transforming into a place to attend college in the state of Florida and beyond. When walking to the stadium during pre-game see tailgates set up throughout campus in the Rat's Mouth that is the in the heart of campus, Every parking lot filled with tailgaters, and in front of the stadium. The potential has arrived for FAU to reach the next step in their program.
FAU has a chance to make this a gem of South Florida if they are able to bring in the right coach. From what the first game told us is it is possible because they put in the necessary work to bring in a coach that can bring FAU to a bowl team once again. Forget the outcome for now and I enjoy what could potentially lay ahead for FAU as a school and a football program!
The stadium is a gem with great ambiances that you cannot find in most college football stadiums. FAU now has a place they can bring recruits to a stadium that they do not have to avoid from showing off. They can bring the future coaching candidates here to prove that FAU once again can win.
It set the stage that FAU is transforming into a place to attend college in the state of Florida and beyond. When walking to the stadium during pre-game see tailgates set up throughout campus in the Rat's Mouth that is the in the heart of campus, Every parking lot filled with tailgaters, and in front of the stadium. The potential has arrived for FAU to reach the next step in their program.
FAU has a chance to make this a gem of South Florida if they are able to bring in the right coach. From what the first game told us is it is possible because they put in the necessary work to bring in a coach that can bring FAU to a bowl team once again. Forget the outcome for now and I enjoy what could potentially lay ahead for FAU as a school and a football program!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Great Beginnings
When Florida Atlantic University steps onto the new football stadium for the first time against Western Kentucky throw away the records. Both teams have struggled so far this season. This will be a game that will be celebrated no matter the outcome. The game is ten years of hard work in the making. We can thank Howard Schnellenberger, the administration, and three university presidents.
The game will be the beginnings to many new great traditions for the university that could help the university achieve great things in the future. Pre-game festivities that will include an Owl Prowl that starts the team, band, and cheerleaders at the South End of the Breezeway through the student tailgate area then onto the stadium. An Owl flying similar to the War Eagle at Auburn to midfield to start the game. The Rat's Mouth which is the student tailgating area that will be planted in the middle of campus and maybe bring a little of Ole Miss's grove to Boca Raton.
Saturday will not be about who wins or loses a FAU win would be nice, but the stadium, athletes, students, Schnellenberger, and alumnus finally get their day of glory. This is the step UCF needed as university to start to become to the forefront of Florida Universities and this may be the start of that for FAU. If you are attending take in the moments and emotions of not only the game, but everything leading up to it.
The game will be the beginnings to many new great traditions for the university that could help the university achieve great things in the future. Pre-game festivities that will include an Owl Prowl that starts the team, band, and cheerleaders at the South End of the Breezeway through the student tailgate area then onto the stadium. An Owl flying similar to the War Eagle at Auburn to midfield to start the game. The Rat's Mouth which is the student tailgating area that will be planted in the middle of campus and maybe bring a little of Ole Miss's grove to Boca Raton.
Saturday will not be about who wins or loses a FAU win would be nice, but the stadium, athletes, students, Schnellenberger, and alumnus finally get their day of glory. This is the step UCF needed as university to start to become to the forefront of Florida Universities and this may be the start of that for FAU. If you are attending take in the moments and emotions of not only the game, but everything leading up to it.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Rough Day
Florida Atlantic University traveled to North Texas to play the Mean Green and they were not welcomed well. FAU lost to UNT 31-14 this past Saturday and puts their record at 0-5 for the season. FAU comes home for the first time this year in anti-climatic fashion to open the new on campus stadium.
Graham Wilbert struggled during the game only completing 30 percent of his passes. The biggest blows came on two of his three interceptions that went for touchdowns. FAU played tough in the first half only being down 7-0, the only score coming after a muffed punt that lead to a short touchdown inside the 5 yard line by UNT. The third quarter by far was the worst for FAU on the season. As UNT jumped out to a 31-0 advantage and FAU lost all hope to a comeback.
The 4th quarter brought some positives to the game as Alfred Morris scampered for a 28 yard touchdown run. Morris ran for 162 yards on the day and gave life to the struggling ground game. David Kooi threw a touchdown a touchdown pass to Darian Williams in the 4th quarter to complete the scoring. Kooi finished the game 6-9 for 70 yards and a touchdown.
With Wilbert's struggles against UNT this may bring into question who will be the starting quarterback when FAU opens the stadium this Saturday. FAU may look to David Kooi after he performed to finish the game. Wilbert's miscues turned a winnable game into a disaster in the 3rd quarter.
Graham Wilbert struggled during the game only completing 30 percent of his passes. The biggest blows came on two of his three interceptions that went for touchdowns. FAU played tough in the first half only being down 7-0, the only score coming after a muffed punt that lead to a short touchdown inside the 5 yard line by UNT. The third quarter by far was the worst for FAU on the season. As UNT jumped out to a 31-0 advantage and FAU lost all hope to a comeback.
The 4th quarter brought some positives to the game as Alfred Morris scampered for a 28 yard touchdown run. Morris ran for 162 yards on the day and gave life to the struggling ground game. David Kooi threw a touchdown a touchdown pass to Darian Williams in the 4th quarter to complete the scoring. Kooi finished the game 6-9 for 70 yards and a touchdown.
With Wilbert's struggles against UNT this may bring into question who will be the starting quarterback when FAU opens the stadium this Saturday. FAU may look to David Kooi after he performed to finish the game. Wilbert's miscues turned a winnable game into a disaster in the 3rd quarter.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Avoid 0-5
Florida Atlantic University heads to Denton, Texas to face off against the North Texas Mean Green. These two school have a lot in common heading into this game. They both are opening on campus new stadiums this year, have gotten off to rough starts, and have to compete against major in state schools for recruiting.
This is a very important game for FAU to come home with a victory to open the new stadium. The biggest fear going into this season was opening with very little fanfare due to a poor start. FAU came close to the first victory of the season against ULL, but they fell short.
Similar to FAU, North Texas is at the bottom of most offensive and defensive categories in the nation. Last year FAU lost to North Texas in Lockhart. This is a big opportunity for FAU to avenge last year and come home with some momentum in the new stadium.
This is a very important game for FAU to come home with a victory to open the new stadium. The biggest fear going into this season was opening with very little fanfare due to a poor start. FAU came close to the first victory of the season against ULL, but they fell short.
Similar to FAU, North Texas is at the bottom of most offensive and defensive categories in the nation. Last year FAU lost to North Texas in Lockhart. This is a big opportunity for FAU to avenge last year and come home with some momentum in the new stadium.
Monday, October 3, 2011
FAU loses Heartbreaker
Florida Atlantic University lost a heartbreak again University of Lousiana this past Saturday night. ULL going into the game was 3-1 and coming off a victory against conference favorite Florida International.
The positives to come out of the game the offense came alive for the first time this year in exploding for 34 points, but the let down of the defense in the final minutes after the offense scored to tie the game.
FAU's defense struggled at times during the game and looked tremendous in others with their speed and big play ability. The defense appeared to be the strength going into Sun Belt play, but it did not end up that way in the game. ULL racked 459 yards of total offense and attacking FAU with a balanced attack that they could not stop at times. The most disappointing being the last second drive that lead to the game winning field goal.
The offense had their best performance of the season with 34 points and over 300 yards of offense. They jumped out to an early lead that they could not hold. Down 34-20 halfway through the 4th quarter Howard Schnellenberger was ready to pull Wilbert, but when he didn't he engineered two impressive scoring drives to tie the score. Wilbert for the game had three touchdown passes which gives hope for the rest of the season for offense.
But nonetheless FAU is left at an 0-4 record with North Texas next up before the biggest day in FAU history with the opening of the new stadium!
The positives to come out of the game the offense came alive for the first time this year in exploding for 34 points, but the let down of the defense in the final minutes after the offense scored to tie the game.
FAU's defense struggled at times during the game and looked tremendous in others with their speed and big play ability. The defense appeared to be the strength going into Sun Belt play, but it did not end up that way in the game. ULL racked 459 yards of total offense and attacking FAU with a balanced attack that they could not stop at times. The most disappointing being the last second drive that lead to the game winning field goal.
The offense had their best performance of the season with 34 points and over 300 yards of offense. They jumped out to an early lead that they could not hold. Down 34-20 halfway through the 4th quarter Howard Schnellenberger was ready to pull Wilbert, but when he didn't he engineered two impressive scoring drives to tie the score. Wilbert for the game had three touchdown passes which gives hope for the rest of the season for offense.
But nonetheless FAU is left at an 0-4 record with North Texas next up before the biggest day in FAU history with the opening of the new stadium!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Schnellenberger's 4th Quarter Blunders Continue
Schnellenberger in the 4th quarter once again sat on the ball in the 4th quarter in a somewhat manageable score. Similar to last year against Michigan State Florida Atlantic University sat on the ball late in the 4th quarter against Auburn. Granted the game may have been out of reach, but on the final 2 drives of the game in a two score game FAU brought in back up QB David Kooi and ran out the clock.
This was overshadowed by a mostly positive performace by FAU, but once again Schnellenberger quit on the game in the 4th quarter. This is one of the reasons FAU should be happy this is his last year on the sidelines at FAU. In the future FAU should demand to play the game till the end and not give up in the 4th quarter.
This was overshadowed by a mostly positive performace by FAU, but once again Schnellenberger quit on the game in the 4th quarter. This is one of the reasons FAU should be happy this is his last year on the sidelines at FAU. In the future FAU should demand to play the game till the end and not give up in the 4th quarter.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Hope?
Florida Atlantic University football took on the defending national champion's Auburn University this past Saturday. This was the best performance by the Owls this year and were competetive throughout the game.
The Owls proved on the first play of the game that they could play with Auburn with Cory Henry intercepting Barrett Trotter's pass on the first play from scrimmage of the game. This put the Owls in postions to take an early lead. The Owls defense fought tough all game with Auburn's offense by putting Trotter under a lot of duress in the pocket.
The offense had their best performance of the year against Auburn's young defense. They had over 300 yards of total offense and were very balanced in the run and passing games. It was the first game all year Alfred Morris was able to find holes and had 85 yards of rushing. Wilbert had his struggles in underthrowing a couple of passes that turned into interceptions, but he also gave the best performance of the year. The approved unit of the game was the offense line they opened many lanes for the running backs and Wilbert had time in the pocket for the first time this year. But of course the most important part is FAU scored it's first touchdown of the season on a screen pass to the shoeless Alfred Morris.
If FAU does not turn the ball over twice early in the second half they have a chance to win this game in the 4th quarter. Nonetheless this game gives FAU hope going into Sun Belt play. All three facets of the game showed promise against a much faster and bigger Auburn team. If FAU can build off of what they did well against Auburn they will have a shot against Louisiana Lafayette who upset FIU over the weekend. The next two weeks will be extremely important games not only to get off to a good start in the Sun Belt, but to avoid opening the brand new football stadium at 0-5.
The Owls proved on the first play of the game that they could play with Auburn with Cory Henry intercepting Barrett Trotter's pass on the first play from scrimmage of the game. This put the Owls in postions to take an early lead. The Owls defense fought tough all game with Auburn's offense by putting Trotter under a lot of duress in the pocket.
The offense had their best performance of the year against Auburn's young defense. They had over 300 yards of total offense and were very balanced in the run and passing games. It was the first game all year Alfred Morris was able to find holes and had 85 yards of rushing. Wilbert had his struggles in underthrowing a couple of passes that turned into interceptions, but he also gave the best performance of the year. The approved unit of the game was the offense line they opened many lanes for the running backs and Wilbert had time in the pocket for the first time this year. But of course the most important part is FAU scored it's first touchdown of the season on a screen pass to the shoeless Alfred Morris.
If FAU does not turn the ball over twice early in the second half they have a chance to win this game in the 4th quarter. Nonetheless this game gives FAU hope going into Sun Belt play. All three facets of the game showed promise against a much faster and bigger Auburn team. If FAU can build off of what they did well against Auburn they will have a shot against Louisiana Lafayette who upset FIU over the weekend. The next two weeks will be extremely important games not only to get off to a good start in the Sun Belt, but to avoid opening the brand new football stadium at 0-5.
Monday, September 12, 2011
The Other Guys
Meri Mercifully FAU has a bye week this upcoming week until we travel to the defending national champion Auburn. I wanted to look at the in state matchup that will fly under the radar this week with UCF and FIU. Similar to FAU these three schools make up the only 3 non-automatic qualifiers for the BCS. We will be comparing how the first two weeks went for these teams compared to FAU.
Last week all three teams play a team for an AQ conference respectively. UCF dominated a game against Boston College and FIU jumped out early to a big lead and held on to beat Louisville. We of course know the story of what happened to FAU against Michigan St. FIU and UCF will faceoff down in Miami come off of all time big wins for the programs. While these two teams were pulling upsets this past weekend we watch FAU put up one first down and 48 total yards offense against Michigan St.
UCF is averaging in their first two games 46.5 points per game and FIU is right behind them at 32.5. You can compare that two FAU’s 1.5 points per game. FAU also stands 120 in passing and rushing yards.
Looking at these numbers is quite astonishing when you consider these programs are all very similar in many ways. Even with FAU moving into their new stadium in just over a month you have to ask the question are UCF and FIU leaving us in their dust. If you are wondering how has this happened when just a few years ago FAU went to back to back bowl games while FIU and UCF were sitting at home? FAU didn’t build off that success and struggled mightily to recruit while the other two programs were flourishing in that aspect.
The final question you want ask yourself is their hope for FAU? Possibly. There is a good chance FAU will bring in a big name coach who can recruit. Also FIU and UCF were able to recruit much better athletes when they moved into their respective stadiums. If FAU can pull the same model you might be able to see FAU make jump like these two programs have in the past couple of years.
Last week all three teams play a team for an AQ conference respectively. UCF dominated a game against Boston College and FIU jumped out early to a big lead and held on to beat Louisville. We of course know the story of what happened to FAU against Michigan St. FIU and UCF will faceoff down in Miami come off of all time big wins for the programs. While these two teams were pulling upsets this past weekend we watch FAU put up one first down and 48 total yards offense against Michigan St.
UCF is averaging in their first two games 46.5 points per game and FIU is right behind them at 32.5. You can compare that two FAU’s 1.5 points per game. FAU also stands 120 in passing and rushing yards.
Looking at these numbers is quite astonishing when you consider these programs are all very similar in many ways. Even with FAU moving into their new stadium in just over a month you have to ask the question are UCF and FIU leaving us in their dust. If you are wondering how has this happened when just a few years ago FAU went to back to back bowl games while FIU and UCF were sitting at home? FAU didn’t build off that success and struggled mightily to recruit while the other two programs were flourishing in that aspect.
The final question you want ask yourself is their hope for FAU? Possibly. There is a good chance FAU will bring in a big name coach who can recruit. Also FIU and UCF were able to recruit much better athletes when they moved into their respective stadiums. If FAU can pull the same model you might be able to see FAU make jump like these two programs have in the past couple of years.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Just when you Thought it Couldn't get Worst
FAU played once again Saturday against Michigan St. and the few positives you could take out of the Florida that could not be said today. FAU only managed one first down the whole game. FAU has always struggled to win these early season advanced training games, but we have never seen them struggle like this before. Just in recent years in last years game again MSU being in the game till the final snap, in 2009 only losing by one to the Gamecocks.
FAU had so many comedy of errors during this game that they alone could fill ESPN's Not Top 10 Plays. This was to many a very sad day in FAU history, because in no memory have we ever seen an FAU football team get this outplayed. David Kooi and Graham Wilbert were a combined 6-13 for 26 yards and Alfred Morris again couldn't get anything going.
As disappointing this season has been should it be surprising? The offense did not average 20 points per game last year and it lost its three biggest playmakers from that team. Also it should be noted it is not surprising FAU is 0-2 after the first two games, but in the total non-competitiveness of these games.
With FIU upsetting Louisville this past Friday night this makes the start of the season hurt that much more for Owl Nation. In just two years when many would say FAU Football was light years ahead of FIU that has all changed now. This might be the last year of this coaching staff, but its clear it will take a lot of changes to get this program going back in the right direction once again. Luckily FAU gets a bye week next week and then travels to Auburn in two weeks.
FAU had so many comedy of errors during this game that they alone could fill ESPN's Not Top 10 Plays. This was to many a very sad day in FAU history, because in no memory have we ever seen an FAU football team get this outplayed. David Kooi and Graham Wilbert were a combined 6-13 for 26 yards and Alfred Morris again couldn't get anything going.
As disappointing this season has been should it be surprising? The offense did not average 20 points per game last year and it lost its three biggest playmakers from that team. Also it should be noted it is not surprising FAU is 0-2 after the first two games, but in the total non-competitiveness of these games.
With FIU upsetting Louisville this past Friday night this makes the start of the season hurt that much more for Owl Nation. In just two years when many would say FAU Football was light years ahead of FIU that has all changed now. This might be the last year of this coaching staff, but its clear it will take a lot of changes to get this program going back in the right direction once again. Luckily FAU gets a bye week next week and then travels to Auburn in two weeks.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
FAU First Impressions
Florida Atlantic took their expected first loss of the season against the Gators this past Saturday night. They lost 41-3 and there were very little positives to take out of the game against the Gators.
The little positives there were in the game let's start with those. FAU debuted the 3-4 defense against the Gators and looked solid at times causing three interceptions. This could give FAU some hope that the new scheme will be able to disrupt opposing defenses especially when FAU hits Sun Belt play. The interceptions set up the offense with short fields and during the game it was pretty clear that is exactly what our offense will need to score points this year. Another positive was the return game of Willie Floyd he was able average 26 yards a kick return and a long of 38. This could be promising for the return game how it's been extremely lackluster in previous years.
The negatives are clear and were expected. The offensive line struggled once again and looked very much like last year. Many thought the offensive line would be much improved after returning the whole line from last year. They could not create any offensive holes for Alfred Morris and we could not get our best offensive weapon going. Morris ran for only 16 yards on 14 carries. Wilbert making his first start at QB struggled much of the game and as a whole the offense does not look promising.
At first glance the offense falling below 150 yards of total offense is atrocious. As it looks right now the offense will not be able to score 20 points in a game without the defense setting them up in extremely short fields. As the defense did on two occasions, but the offense could only convert that into 3 points. Only making 1 of 2 short field goal attempts.
FAU Season started how many thought it would, but there was very little to give hope to the season. They have a second shot in another advanced training game against Michigan St. who FAU has always played a close game against. FAU needs to give fans hope during the next four games or they will continue to have trouble selling tickets.
The little positives there were in the game let's start with those. FAU debuted the 3-4 defense against the Gators and looked solid at times causing three interceptions. This could give FAU some hope that the new scheme will be able to disrupt opposing defenses especially when FAU hits Sun Belt play. The interceptions set up the offense with short fields and during the game it was pretty clear that is exactly what our offense will need to score points this year. Another positive was the return game of Willie Floyd he was able average 26 yards a kick return and a long of 38. This could be promising for the return game how it's been extremely lackluster in previous years.
The negatives are clear and were expected. The offensive line struggled once again and looked very much like last year. Many thought the offensive line would be much improved after returning the whole line from last year. They could not create any offensive holes for Alfred Morris and we could not get our best offensive weapon going. Morris ran for only 16 yards on 14 carries. Wilbert making his first start at QB struggled much of the game and as a whole the offense does not look promising.
At first glance the offense falling below 150 yards of total offense is atrocious. As it looks right now the offense will not be able to score 20 points in a game without the defense setting them up in extremely short fields. As the defense did on two occasions, but the offense could only convert that into 3 points. Only making 1 of 2 short field goal attempts.
FAU Season started how many thought it would, but there was very little to give hope to the season. They have a second shot in another advanced training game against Michigan St. who FAU has always played a close game against. FAU needs to give fans hope during the next four games or they will continue to have trouble selling tickets.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Lee Roy Selmon
Growing up in the Tampa Bay area I had the luck to meet Lee Roy Selmon on multiple occasions. This is a loss more than just losing a great football player. When you think of Tampa Bay sports its not possible to put to the forefront Lee Roy Selmon.
From the start of the franchise for the Bucs to helping USF beat Notre Dame in South Bend this past Saturday nothing none of it would be possible without him. He was an ambassador to the Tampa Bay Community, but that is just to sports. He was extremely active in the community to his last days.
From my experiences as a little boy to meeting him when I was much older I can say it was a pleasure to be able to meet him. I can only hope the Tampa Bay area can have more athletes like him. He set the bar so early for the athletes in Tampa Bay as he was the most notable of all athletes when the Bucs began.
RIP Lee Roy Selmon you will be truly missed.
From the start of the franchise for the Bucs to helping USF beat Notre Dame in South Bend this past Saturday nothing none of it would be possible without him. He was an ambassador to the Tampa Bay Community, but that is just to sports. He was extremely active in the community to his last days.
From my experiences as a little boy to meeting him when I was much older I can say it was a pleasure to be able to meet him. I can only hope the Tampa Bay area can have more athletes like him. He set the bar so early for the athletes in Tampa Bay as he was the most notable of all athletes when the Bucs began.
RIP Lee Roy Selmon you will be truly missed.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
FAU Expectations
As the season opener draws close this Saturday against UF this Saturday what can be expected from FAU this season. With Graham Wilbert as the starting QB who has completed one pass in his career and never starting a game. FAU has switched to a new defense going from the 4-3 to 3-4 scheme and the last year of the voice roaming the sidelines.
With the preseason polls of the Sun Belt predicting a last place finish for FAU with an extremely young offense with little to no experience at all positions except at RB and offensive line. I tend to agree with the poll as FAU will have a 3rd straight losing season next year. Including that of starting the season with games on the road against UF, Auburn, and Michigan St. which pretty much guarantees an 0-3 start.
If FAU can be 1-4 in the opening game of the new on campus stadium maybe a best case scenario. As of today this season looks like it will be a 3-9 football team on paper when you look at the schedule and the youth of this team. Although the Sun Belt Conference tends to be one of the most unpredictable conferences in the nation year in and year out.
FAU predicted finish:
7th in Sun Belt at 4-8
With the preseason polls of the Sun Belt predicting a last place finish for FAU with an extremely young offense with little to no experience at all positions except at RB and offensive line. I tend to agree with the poll as FAU will have a 3rd straight losing season next year. Including that of starting the season with games on the road against UF, Auburn, and Michigan St. which pretty much guarantees an 0-3 start.
If FAU can be 1-4 in the opening game of the new on campus stadium maybe a best case scenario. As of today this season looks like it will be a 3-9 football team on paper when you look at the schedule and the youth of this team. Although the Sun Belt Conference tends to be one of the most unpredictable conferences in the nation year in and year out.
FAU predicted finish:
7th in Sun Belt at 4-8
Friday, August 26, 2011
FAU's New Voice?
Florida Atlantic football will begin what will be a monumental season for the program that is a seven days away from opening the season in Gainesville. With the new 30,000 seat stadium opening and just about a week ago Howard Schnellenberger announced this will be his last roaming the sidelines for FAU.
This brings into question who will replace the only man FAU has known to roam the sidelines. With the opening of the stadium this year FAU will need to fill the seats to be able to pay off the loans it took out to pay the bills. Heading into the season indications point towards FAU struggling once again for the third straight season after being picked to finish last in the preseason Sun Belt poll. After the novelty of the new stadium wears off after the first season FAU will need to win to draw attendance.
FAU is known to make splash hires in their programs history with the hiring of Schnellenberger, Mike Jarvis, and Matt Daugherty. I would expect this to be no different. Craig Angelos has already said he expects to have a coach in place by late November or earlier. If FAU’s football team has a third straight losing season as expected after becoming college football’s youngest program to ever win a bowl game in back to back years.
There are two names I expect FAU to take hard looks at when begin the search the replacement of the voice. FAU has many areas going for them when they begin the search with the building of the new stadium, a growing school, and the most fertile recruiting in the country being located in South Florida.
The first name I expect FAU to look at would be Jim Leavitt the former coach at USF who also started that program from scratch and took them to a #2 BCS ranking in 2007. Leavitt lost his job after an altercation in the locker room during halftime of a game in 2009. He is now the Linebackers Coach for the San Francisco 49er’s. Leavitt could be a perfect fit coming from and having a success at such a young program at USF, which is comparable to the experience that FAU has. At one point Leavitt was offered job at the University of Alabama and Indiana only to turn them down in favor to stay at USF. Leavitt would be a tremendous name to recruits in the state for coach in the state for 10 years. He would know the recruiting landscape as well in the South Florida area and of course in the Tampa Bay area as well. He could also help attendance for the new stadium.
The second is Mike Leach the former coach at Texas Tech. He lost his job in a similar type of manner by putting a former player in the storage during practice. But the positives of a hire like Leach vastly outweigh the negatives. He made an average program at Texas Tech into a true powerhouse while he was at the school. Leach would also bring an exciting offense to FAU that would help put fans in the new stadium. Some may have thought FAU would not be able to bring in a coach of Leach’s stature, but he was passed over at jobs at University of Maryland and Minnesota this past offseason. This is hire that FAU would receive national headlines for and it’s a program that has struggled to do so. One other tidbit that could help FAU make this move Craig Angelos and Mike Leach attended BYU together.
Look at FAU to take their time during this process and to get the best possible coach for this job including many other candidates other than the two I just looked at.
This brings into question who will replace the only man FAU has known to roam the sidelines. With the opening of the stadium this year FAU will need to fill the seats to be able to pay off the loans it took out to pay the bills. Heading into the season indications point towards FAU struggling once again for the third straight season after being picked to finish last in the preseason Sun Belt poll. After the novelty of the new stadium wears off after the first season FAU will need to win to draw attendance.
FAU is known to make splash hires in their programs history with the hiring of Schnellenberger, Mike Jarvis, and Matt Daugherty. I would expect this to be no different. Craig Angelos has already said he expects to have a coach in place by late November or earlier. If FAU’s football team has a third straight losing season as expected after becoming college football’s youngest program to ever win a bowl game in back to back years.
There are two names I expect FAU to take hard looks at when begin the search the replacement of the voice. FAU has many areas going for them when they begin the search with the building of the new stadium, a growing school, and the most fertile recruiting in the country being located in South Florida.
The first name I expect FAU to look at would be Jim Leavitt the former coach at USF who also started that program from scratch and took them to a #2 BCS ranking in 2007. Leavitt lost his job after an altercation in the locker room during halftime of a game in 2009. He is now the Linebackers Coach for the San Francisco 49er’s. Leavitt could be a perfect fit coming from and having a success at such a young program at USF, which is comparable to the experience that FAU has. At one point Leavitt was offered job at the University of Alabama and Indiana only to turn them down in favor to stay at USF. Leavitt would be a tremendous name to recruits in the state for coach in the state for 10 years. He would know the recruiting landscape as well in the South Florida area and of course in the Tampa Bay area as well. He could also help attendance for the new stadium.
The second is Mike Leach the former coach at Texas Tech. He lost his job in a similar type of manner by putting a former player in the storage during practice. But the positives of a hire like Leach vastly outweigh the negatives. He made an average program at Texas Tech into a true powerhouse while he was at the school. Leach would also bring an exciting offense to FAU that would help put fans in the new stadium. Some may have thought FAU would not be able to bring in a coach of Leach’s stature, but he was passed over at jobs at University of Maryland and Minnesota this past offseason. This is hire that FAU would receive national headlines for and it’s a program that has struggled to do so. One other tidbit that could help FAU make this move Craig Angelos and Mike Leach attended BYU together.
Look at FAU to take their time during this process and to get the best possible coach for this job including many other candidates other than the two I just looked at.
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