FAU running back Jonathan Wallace looks for yardage against North Texas. (Photo Courtesy of Owl Pix)
Setting an example
When Florida Atlantic faces Louisiana-Monroe on Saturday, it will be facing a program it will try to emulate.
Originally published on
10/12/2012
by
Marcus Nelson
BOCA RATON – Louisiana-Monroe has garnered plenty of national attention this season for its upset of Arkansas and narrow losses to Auburn and Baylor.
On Saturday, it's the Owls who would like to pull off a shocking upset when they face ULM at 8 p.m. in Monroe, La.
Even though ULM and FAU are both in the Sun Belt Conference, an FAU victory over ULM would set off a celebration that would rival the one on the Warhawks' sideline when they beat Arkansas.
The seasons for the Owls and Warhawks have been heading in different directions.
FAU coach Carl Pelini has been impressed with the way ULM has improved its program.
“That’s a good lesson for everybody here at the school- Patience and sticking to a plan, not panicking, not changing things week to week, they kind of do what they do,” Pelini said. “You look at them last year they were doing the same things. They’re more comfortable in that system and executing better. Really it’s the same team they fielded a year ago.”
Pelini believes the same could be accomplished in Boca Raton.
“This is what we can be in three years,” Pelini said. “There needs to be a commitment by the school and athletic department to provide you the resources to do that- There has to be. That’s why I said there is a lesson to be learned from Monroe not only for our players but for our school in general, athletic department and our university.”
Keys To The Game: Owls @ Warhawks
Key for FAU
Keep an eye on the ground: While the Owls had better be concerned with ULM quarterback Kolton Browning, they also must be cognizant of the ULM rushing attack which has gained 300 yards in its last three games. The Owls could have better success concentrating on stopping the run rather than controlling Browning.
Key for ULM
Give him some time: FAU has not been able to put much pressure on quarterbacks this season and has only recorded four sacks. Browning likes to run, but if the Warhawks offensive line can make sure his jersey stays clean, the ULM offense will be able to move the ball.
Key Matchup
FAU LB David Hinds vs. ULM RB Jyruss Edwards: Hinds will likely be running into Edwards quite a few times on Saturday. It will be difficult to hold him under his 4.6 yards per carry.
Key Stats
- 2: Victories by the Owls in eight games vs. Louisiana-Monroe. However, those two victories both came at Malone Stadium, the site of Saturday's game, where FAU is 2-1 all-time.
- 29: Consecutive starts by ULM junior quarterback Kolton Browining.
- 65: Points scored by FAU this season.
- 63: Points scored by ULM in its 63-10 victory vs. Tulane on Sept. 29