Posts from August 2012

Florida Atlantic didn't schedule Wagner to give fans a game that wasn't decided until the very last play.

But that's exactly what they got as the Owls nearly gave the game away in a close 7-3 victory over Wagner, a Football Championship Subdivision playing its first game against a Football Bowl Subdivision team.

When you struggle against a team that has around 40 scholarships, it's difficult to think what will happen when FAU goes against Georgia and Alabama.

But the first of those games is a whole two weeks away. On Friday night, FAU coach Carl Pelini (photo courtesy of OwlPix.com) could be proud of the way his team handled adversity – and trailing a team like Wagner is definitely an adverse situation.

But Pelini remained calm (much more sedate than his reputation as defensive coordinator at Nebraska) and so did his team as they rallied to beat the Seahawks with a fourth-quarter touchdown. That score was thrown by Graham Wilbert, who was in the game because Pelini had the coaching smarts to put him in the game after Stephen Curtis struggled.

A savvy coaching move in his first game is a good way to start, although being in a tight game vs. a team that was supposed to be an easy opponent made things way too interesting.

Owl Access has learned FAU cornerback Treon Howard, who started eight games last season, has left the team.

A source said Howard decided to leave the team and asked for his release after being demoted this week. An FAU athletic department official confirmed Howard has left the team, but would not comment on the specifics.

Howard, a redshirt sophomore, started most of last season in the cornerback slot opposite of Keith Reaser. Sophomore D'Juan Smith is listed as the starter at that position for tonight's game vs. Wagner.

Howard had two career interceptions, both last season. Howard had one of the few season highlights for the Owls when he had a 23-yard interception return for a touchdown against UAB. It was FAU's only defensive score of the season.
 

If they haven’t asked themselves already, many FAU fans will be wondering tonight why the Owls are playing Wagner, a limited-scholarship FCS team, and why is the game on a Friday?

This will especially be on the minds of FAU administrators when they see what is expected to be a small crowd for the first game under coach Carl Pelini.

Why is the game on a Friday night, instead of, you know, Saturday?

This is to accomodate travel plans for Wagner, who preferred to travel out of South Florida on Saturday.

This creates a huge problem with FAU going against the traditional high school football night and is a big reason less than 6,000 tickets have been sold as of last week.

Pelini was asked about playing on a Friday and the impact that would have on the attendance this week on the Sun Belt Conference teleconference.

“I have no idea,” Pelini said. “I don't think too much about that. The schedule was set before they hired me, so I didnt have to much say in that. Obviously you don't like to compete with high schools here in Florida especially here in Palm Beach County. It's probably not the greatest situation in terms of attracting a crowd. But the die-hards will be here and the students will be here... We don’t concern ourselves too much about that. I am more worried about how we play on the field.”

Actually, the schedule was not set before Pelini was hired. Pelini was hired on Dec. 5 and it wasn't until Jan. 20 that the game vs. Wagner was being finalized. That day, a month and a half after Pelini arrived,  Owl Access broke the story that FAU was talking with Wagner about setting up a game and it was going to be on a Friday night. Then-athletic director Craig Angelos is quoted in the story that the contract had not been signed.

But that isn’t the most troubling part. Pelini doesn’t "think too much" about what the attendance at FAU Stadium is?

Well, I’m pretty sure FAU President Mary Jane Saunders and Athletic Director Pat Chun, who are on the hook for a $2.5 million mortgage payment for that hunk of steel that surrounds "the field" are very concerned and would probably appreciate a little help in putting some fannies in the seats.
 

No more talk about conditioning and tempo. The games are here and it's time touchdowns and tackles. Will FAU be ready?

Well, no one knows for sure, but we'll find out tonight at 8 p.m. when FAU takes the field for the first time under new coach Carl Pelini.

While an opponent like Wagner is a disaster for the financial bottom line, this is a game where FAU can make some mistakes and still come out on top.

There are still some major questions with FAU's offense, so this game won't be easy, but the Owls can't lose to a FCS (nee I-AA) team can they? I will say that I feel less confident about an FAU win after McNeese State beat Middle Tennessee, but I think the Owls survive this one.

Nelson's Pick: FAU 21, Wagner 13

And since this is the start of the 2012 season, here is how I believe the Owls will fare this season.

• Sept. 8 at Middle Tennessee* / L - Owls come up just short vs. Blue Raiders
• Sept.15 at Georgia / L - Owls get down early, lose big
• Sept. 22 at Alabama / L - Ditto
• Sept. 29 North Texas / L- Owls give Mean Green a game, but can't pull it out
• Oct. 13 at ULM / L - Owls keep improving, but will find winning on the road isn't easy
• Oct. 20 at South Alabama / W - FAU beats Jags in close game
• Oct. 27 Troy / L - Trojans' domination continues
• Nov. 3 at Navy / L - Closer than many expect
• Nov. 10 at Western Kentucky / L - Hilltoppers are improving, too much for Owls
• Nov. 16 FIU  / L - Shula Bowl Trophy may be in Miami a while
• Dec. 1 ULL / W - After a full season, Owls can compete with ULL and pull upset

So, I predict 3-9 for the Owls, who gain some momentum by winning the last game of the season and something to build on for 2013. I would say, it will be an interesting season, but I'm not so sure. Basketball season can't get here soon enough.

A couple of days ago we told FAU fans that Gary Gaskins, a center with offers from Oklahoma and Arkansas, would be spending this weekend in Boca Raton on official visit.

He isn't alone.

Gill St. Bernards (New Jersey) shooting guard Chris Jenkins is also in town.

Jenkins, a sharp shooter who averaged 17 points per game for Morristown-Beard as a junior, is actually making his second trip to FAU. He toured FAU over the summer.

"I came down in June for the unofficial visit but i couldn't really get a feel for how the school really is," Jenkins said.

Jenkins transferred from Morristown-Beard to Gill St. Bernard over the summer.

The 6-foot-4, 195-pound sniper is receiving interest from some solid mid-majors, including Drexel, Northeastern, Florida International and Robert Morris. Jenkins made an unofficial visit to FIU during his summer trip, but as of yet does not have an official visit planned.

Like Gaskins, Jenkins doesn't expect to commit to FAU during the visit. He, too, is not in a hurry to sign during the early signing period.

Still, it looks like FAU coach Mike Jarvis and his staff are off to a fast start on the 2013 recruiting class.

 1

Day until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 1: DB Adrian Burton
After arriving late to camp, Burton spent the first couple days at wide receiver before switching to defensive back. Burton has to talent to contribute to the Owls as a true freshman.

.
Other FAU players who have worn No. 1: 

• Dekolan James (2001)
• Brittney Tellis (2001-04)
• McKinson Souverain (2005)
• Avery Holley (2006-10)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Stephen Curtis 'probably' the starting QB vs. Wagner
FAU Hoops: Gaskins to visit this weekend

Other links...

• New FAU coach not trying to measure up with Howard Schnellenberger (Miami Herald)
• Sophomore Stephen Curtis 'probably' FAU's starting quarterback (Sun-Sentinel)
• Pelini says Stephen Curtis will “probably” be starting quarterback for season opener (University Press)
• Pelini steps out of shadow of mentors to rebuild FAU (Palm Beach Post)
• Wagner College braces for football opener at Florida Atlantic (SILive.com)
• Positions on ULM line still up for grabs (Monroe News Star)
• Gameday for MTSU, finally (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)
• Mean Green to lean on Trice’s experience  (Denton Record-Chronicle)
• South Alabama's Alex Page continues to improve (Mobile Press-Register)
• Kyle Wilborn adjusting well at center for Trojans (Dothan Eagle)

FAU fans finally have an idea of which players will be seeing action in the season-opener vs. Wagner.

The Owls released their depth chart just a few minutes ago for the opener on Friday vs. Wagner.

It's the first update since before spring practice began.

A quick glance shows...

• The starting QB is listed as Curtis "or" Wilbert, but later in the notes it has Curtis ahead of Wilbert. Yet anothr place has Wilbert over Curtis. Confused yet? I am, but I am still counting on Curtis to be the starter.
• Tight end is also too close to call with Nexon Dorvilus "or" Alex DeLeon  listed
• Senior Byron Hankerson, not William Dukes, at one the WR positions. Dukes has been banged up in camp and one coach told me that Hankerson is the "most improved player" in training camp.
• Damian Fortner listed as the starting RB. I would assume it's because Jonathan Wallace has missed some practice time lately.
• Freshman Trevon Coley is listed as a starter at defensive tackle

And without further delay, here's a look at the depth chart.

Offense

LT
63 - DeAndre Williams, R-Jr, 6-5, 290
70 - Robert Nasiff, R-Fr, 6-4, 265

LG
56 - Andrew Czuprynski, R-Sr, 6-5, 270
79 - Jordan Sessa, R-Sr, 6-5, 280

C
58 - Mustafa Johnson, Jr, 6-3, 295
50 - Jimmie Colley, R-Jr, 6-3, 295

RG
53- Ricaldo Henry, R-Sr, 6-4, 300
73 - Mike Marsaille, R-Fr, 6-5, 300
74 - Stern Vile, Jr, 6-5, 335

RT
55 - Joseph Bailey, R-Sr, 6-5, 290
65 - Vinny Davino, R-Fr, 6-5, 260
71 - Christopher Chappell, R-Jr, 6-9, 320

TE
9 - Nexon Dorvilus, R-Jr, 6-4, 230 or
84 - Alex Deleon, R-So, 6-4, 210
 

X
87 - Byron Hankerson, R-Sr, 6-1, 180
88 - Jenson Stoshak, Fr, 6-1, 176
 

RB
22 - Damian Fortner, R-Jr, 5-10, 200
25 - Travis Jones, R-Jr, 5-11, 190
 

QB
10 - Stephen Curtis, R-So, 6-3, 225 or
14 - Graham Wilbert, R-Sr, 6-6, 225
W
4 - Paul Moore, R-Sr, 5-9, 161
8 - Daniel McKinney, Jr, 6-0, 205
Z
83 - Marcus Cunningham, R-So, 6-0, 175
19 - William Dukes So, 6-4, 190

Defense

LE
94 - Andrew Stryffeler, R-Jr, 6-5, 260
59 - Robinson Eugene, R-Fr, 6-5, 263

RT
96 - Jimmy Jean, R-Sr, 6-2, 290
95 - Kayvon Sherrill, Jr, 6-3, 279

LT
48 - Trevon Coley, Fr, 6-2, 225
98 - Brandin Bryant, R-Fr, 6-2, 260

RE
31 - Cory Henry, Jr, 6-3, 238
5 - Martin Wright, Sr, 6-4, 250

LB
15 - Randell Johnson, R-Jr, 6-4, 230
46 - Blake Nehls, R-So, 6-2, 215

MLB
45 - Andrae Kirk, So, 6-2, 235
15 - Randell Johnson, R-Jr, 6-4, 230

LB
11 - David Hinds, Sr, 6-2, 234
4 - Adarius Glanton, Jr, 6-1, 215

CB
3 - Keith Reaser, R-Jr, 6-0, 190
6 - Demetrius Williamson, R-Sr, 6-0, 195

SS
24 - Brent Harstad, R-Sr, 6-1, 189
17 - Damian Parms, So, 6-2, 195

FS
26 - Jeremy McKnight, Jr, 5-10, 180
37 - David Lozandier, So, 6-0, 210

CB
21 - D’Joun Smith So, 5-11, 175
29 - Sharrod Neasman, Fr, 6-0, 190

NICKEL
18 - Christian Milstead, R-Jr, 5-10, 170
 

Specialists

P
38 - Joey Silvani, Fr, 6-1, 180
16 - Sean Kelley, Fr, 5-10, 186

PK
39 - Vinny Zaccario, R-Sr, 5-11, 180
16 - Sean Kelley, Fr, 5-10, 186

KOF
16 - Sean Kelley, Fr, 5-10, 186 or

42 - Mitch Anderson, R-Jr, 5-11, 186

LS
54 - Tim Raber, R-Sr, 6-2, 185
60 - Trevor Citek, Fr, 6-0, 220

PR
25 - Travis Jones, R-Jr, 5-11, 190
3 - Keith Reaser, R-Jr, 6-0, 190

KR
25 - Travis Jones, R-Jr, 5-11, 190
 

In a blog a few weeks ago I mentioned FAU was considering charging fans to listen to the radio broadcast of games on-line, which set off a mild controversy.

FAU fans had strong opinions against this move and let their voices be heard.

It's a good thing they spoke up, because common sense came to town (about the same time new AD Pat Chun did and it's not a coincidence) and the pay-to-listen plan has been scrapped.

The radio broadcasts of FAU football games will indeed be free, according to a press release from ESPN760. The release doesn't mention basketball games, but it's believed they will remain free as well.

I commend FAU fans for speaking up when they saw something they didn't like and I also commend FAU athletic department officials for listening to their fan base.

Here is the entire press release from ESPN760 which explains some great ways to follow their coverage of the Owls...

ESPN 760 WELCOMES IN THE CARL PELINI ERA WITH EXPANDED COVERAGE OF THE OWLS

BOCA RATON, FL – August 30, 2012 -- The new era of Florida Atlantic University athletics is here. And ESPN 760 is boosting its Owls coverage to the next level.

ESPN 760 (WEFL-AM), the “flagship station for FAU Athletics”, is proud to ring in Carl Pelini and Pat Chun’s arrival with expanded pre-game radio coverage before every FAU football broadcast, plus an FAU webpage dedicated to all things Florida Atlantic athletics. Both the expanded pre-game show, and FAU webpage compliment ESPN 760 teaming up with Florida Atlantic University and marketing partner Nelligan Sports Marketing to once again broadcast all FAU football and men’s basketball games on ESPN 760, and on the web at ESPN760.com.

The FAU Pre-Game Show now initiates one hour before every Owls broadcast on ESPN 760. Alex Petakas returns as the studio host, and is joined by fellow FAU alum Brian Rowitz. The FAU Pre-Game Show features analysis, insight, interviews, fan interaction, and all of the very latest on the Owls and their opponents leading up to kickoff. For all home games, Petakas and Rowitz will broadcast live from the southwest entrance of FAU Stadium. Owls fans can also follow all of their favorite Florida Atlantic players, coaches, and teams on ESPN 760’s new dedicated FAU webpage (www.espn760.com\fauowls). The webpage features exclusive blogs, video, and audio content from the ESPN 760 FAU team, including the “Voice of the Owls”, Ken LaVicka.

LaVicka and Jason Pugh return as the broadcast team for all Owls football games. LaVicka has been the “Voice of the Owls” since 2010, and serves in a variety of roles for ESPN 760, including as a Dolphins/High School reporter, update anchor, and the host of the Sunday Sports Page (Sun 11 AM – 1 PM). Pugh is an FAU Hall of Famer, and a former defensive lineman with the Owls. He also hosts weeknights (6-8 PM) on ESPN 760, and is ESPN 760’s weeknight sports anchor on WPTV NewsChannel 5 and WFLX Fox 29. Pugh has served as the Owls color analyst since 2010.

“We are excited to begin another football season and thrilled to be a part of the new era under the leadership of new Athletic Director [Pat] Chun, and Head Coach [Carl] Pelini,” says ESPN 760 General Manager Steve Politziner. “Fans can enjoy our further expanded coverage with an extended pregame show and additional content at ESPN760.com.”

And speaking of the coach, Florida Atlantic and ESPN 760’s weekly call-in football coaches show, The FAU Sportspage with Carl Pelini has a new day and a new location. Beginning September 4, The FAU Sportspage airs every Tuesday at 6 PM, live from Duffy’s Sports Grill in Deerfield Beach. Coach Pelini joins Ken LaVicka on site to break down the latest Owls news, as well as look ahead to the team’s next opponent, plus take calls and interact with fans on site.

FAU coach Carl Pelini addressed the quarterback position - perhaps the biggest question that will be answered when (if?) a depth chart is released - but didn't quite give a definitive answer Wednesday  when asked who would be the starter for the opener vs. Wagner on Friday.

Instead, Pelini said Curtis “probably” will get the starting assignment vs. the Seahawks.

Pelini likes the way Curtis has handled the offense in the preseason, and that may be just as important as how much talent Curtis has.

“For a quarterback it's different on game day,” Pelini said. “I think he's been well-coached, he's been well prepared and he gets the offense. He runs the offense well, but he still has to execute once the ball snaps. We wouldn't have him out there if we didn't have confidence in him. He won't be perfect, but I expect him to practice and play hard.”

On Tuesday, the day before Pelini's almost-announcement, I gave my educated guess that Curtis would be the starter. Even though he stopped short of saying it would be Curtis, I'm doubling down on that bet.

One thing Pelini will not do is run a two-quarterback system.

“We'll have one guy that is the starter,” Pelini said. “I've never liked a quarterback looking over his shoulder wondering when he is going to be pulled because that is not good for him.'

 2

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 2: WR DeAndre Richardson

Richardson is the Owls' most experienced receiver. The problem is he was hurt in spring drills and is still not cleared to play. Last season Richardson led the Owls with 32 catches and 269 yards.

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Other FAU players who have worn No. 2: 

•  
• Mauratae Johnson (2001)
• Daveon Barron (2003-04)
• Dominic Walker (2005-07)
• Avionnie Rolle (2008-09)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Look for Curtis to be FAU's starting quarterback 

FAU Football: St. Thomas Aquinas OL Austin Bland committs to Owls

•  
• St. Thomas Aquinas offensive lineman Austin Bland commits to FAU (Sun-Sentinel)
• Run it or Gun it, Owls Defense Should Sink Division I-AA Wagner (University Press)
• Former FAU QB David Kooi wins starting job at Albanay State (Albany Herald)
• FIU seniors seizing their opportunity (Miami Herald)
• Raiders focused on stopping run (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)
• ULL moves practice to beat storm (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
• ULM prepares for unforeseen (Monroe News-Star)
• UNT wants to start opening at home (Denton Record-Chronicle)
• South Alabama basketball adds two transfers (Mobile Press-Register)
• Troy punter will also handle kicking duties (Dothan Eagle)
• Hilltoppers RB Simpson wants to show what he can do (Bowling Green Daily News)

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess
 

Today’s workout

FAU packed up and moved to the stadium just after 8:30 a.m. for practice on Wednesday.

Weather conditions

At 9:11 a.m. it was  81 degrees with 82 percent humidity under partly cloudy skies at the Boca Raton Airport.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

• Pipeline: Official Game Week Discussion
• Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess
• Facebook: OwlAccess
• E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Florida Atlantic is scheduled to release its first depth chart of the preseason on Wednesday and the biggest question is: Who will be listed as the Owls' quarterback?

Well, judging by the limited amount of practice that I have seen, it's looking like sophomore Stephen Curtis will be the Owls starting quarterback. Of course, nothing is official until the depth chart is posted or Pelini makes an announcement, but it appears Curtis has won the job.

While senior Graham Wilbert had an edge in experience, he struggled last season in a pro-style system that seemed to be tailor-made for his strengths. In the Owls' new spread offense, Curtis seems to be better fit due to his running style.

Curtis' biggest weakness is his lack of experience of running an offense. Well, there is only way to change that – and that's on-the-job training.

And it appears Curtis will get just that as the Owls' starter in the season-opener vs. Wagner.

Things could change in the 11th hour before the depth chart is made public, but I will be very surprised if Curtis isn't listed as the starter for the Owls' game vs. the Seahawks.

3

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 3: DB Keith Reaser
A redshirt junior, Reaser started every game last season and picked off two passes. Look for him to earn the starting spot again this season and draw the assignement of defending the opponent's best receiver.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 3: 

• Craig Roundtree (2001-04)
• Greg Joseph (2005-06)
• Lestar Jean (2009-10)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Duron Carter's paperwork sent to NCAA
 
Other links...

• Schnellenberger talks up Miami, but not Conference USA (USA Today)
• Carl Pelini has a plan to turn around FAU football (Sun-Sentinel)
• FAU Playbook (Sun-Sentinel)
• FIU practices in Dolphins' bubble (Miami Herald)
• Hudspeth warns ULL not to overlook Lamar (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
• McNeese comes to Murfreesboro early (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)
• UNT eyes Isaac as it prepares travel plans (Denton Record Chronicle)
• Troy defense appears improved (Dothan Eagle)
   

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess

Today’s workout

FAU took the field just after 8:30 a.m. for practice on Friday.

Weather conditions

At 9:09 a.m. it was  81 degrees with 86 percent humidity under cloudy skies at the Boca Raton Airport adjacent to the Tom Oxley Practice Fields. The field was very wet due to an overnight shower.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

• Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion
• Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess
• Facebook: OwlAccess
• E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

4

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 4: WR Paul Moore
Moore has been slowed by injuries since he arrived on campus last season, but appears to be back near full-strength and could fit the role of the Owls' new "slot" receiver.


Other FAU players who have worn No. 5: 

Anthony Jackson (2001-04)
Carldayle Brantley (2005-08)
Erick McIntosh (2009)
Jeff Blanchard (2010)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Signee Anderson won't enroll at FAU until the spring
 

Other links...

Less than 5,800 tickets sold for season opener (

University Press

)

Former Owl Alfred Morris making his case to start in NFL (

Sun-Sentinel

Few changes to ULM depth chart (

Monroe News-Star

Game coming soon for MTSU (

Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)

DB Cory Barnett's career at South Alabama cut way too short (

Mobile Press-Register

B.J. Chitty making strides at receiver for Troy (

Dothan Eagle

)

Taggart knew wins would come

Bowling Green Daily News

The final unaccounted-for player from FAU's 2012 signing class won't be joining the Owls for the upcoming season.

Academic issues will prevent Miami-Braddock running back Jarvon Anderson from enrolling at FAU until January.

The culprit appears to be a math class that didn't count toward admission. Anderson said he is currently taking the necessary class and should be ready to go for the spring semester.

“I was shocked,” Anderson said of his reaction upon learning he still needed one more class. “I found out real late that I had to take it over. It was a bummer.”

Now, he might be one of two slot receivers who join the Owls in January. Forest Hill athlete Mike Bullard also committed to FAU in 2012 with the intention of enrolling at FAU for the spring semester.

FAU announced the signing of 28 high school seniors or JUCO players back on National Signing Day, Feb. 1, 2012. Anderson becomes the fifth player announced on that day who won't play or practice for FAU in 2012. Cornerback Tony Grimes and linebacker James Mathis ended up at different schools.

Quarterback Grant Flessner, a spring enrollee who was also announced on Signing Day, went through spring drills with the Owls but is no longer on the team. FAU also announced quarterback Colton Kane as part of that class. An original signee as part of the 2011 class, Kane enrolled at FAU in the spring but has since transferred to junior college.

Two more names could still be added to that list. Heralded quarterback Melvin German has participated in camp but has yet to be cleared play and wide receiver Chris Gilchrist reported, has been attending practice and is also waiting on final clearance.The final unaccounted for player from FAU's 2012 signing class won't be joining the Owls for the upcoming season.

5

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 5: DE/LB Martin Wright
Wright is currently in the mix as a defensive end, but can also play linebacker when the Owls aren't in a nickel package and need three linebackers.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 5: 

• Doug Parker (2001-2004)
• Danny Embick (2005)
• Tavious Polo (2007-10)
• Willie Floyd (2011)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Fewer than 5,800 tickets have been sold for opener

Other links...

• As of Friday, more than 24,000 tickets available for FAU’s opener (Palm Beach Post)
• ‘Lonely soldier’ rookie Alfred Morris competes to share Redskins backfield with RGIII (Washington Post)
• Owls want use running backs by committee (Sun-Sentinel)
• New Panthers offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey is bringing his high-powered system from New Hampshire to FIU (Miami Herald)
• ULL wants an encore (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
• MTSU season preview: Raiders must rally from identity crisis (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)
• Former soldier McCoy one of four UNT captains (Denton Record-Chronicle)
• C.J. Bennett to serve as triggerman of South Alabama's new attack (Mobile Press-Register)
• Woodiel beefs up, earns starting spot for Troy (Dothan Eagle)
• Hilltoppers wrap up fall camp (Bowling Green Daily News)

 

 

FAU AD Pat Chun was a little evasive when he was asked about the number of tickets sold for the Owls’ opener vs. Wagner when he talked with reporters on Thursday.

Now I see why.

According to figures obtained by The Palm Beach Post, FAU has sold 5,759 tickets for the first game of the Carl Pelini era.

That is not a typo – 5,759 tickets sold for a game that FAU has been gearing up for since the last day of the 2011 football season.

Oh sure, there will be a large walk-up crowd (we’ve seen how efficiently the lines move at FAU Stadium before a game) and the students will be there (at least those who don’t go home for the Labor Day weekend). The attendance will likely be higher than that – we’ll find out exactly how much higher on Friday.

I had heard of some very low numbers circulating around, but seeing this figure sends a chill down my spine.

Can there be any good news after seeing these numbers? Here’s the best I can come up with.

Chun seems to be bracing himself for a small turnout – one that he had very little influence over since he has been on the job for only a few weeks.

He said planning for the next game after what is shaping up top be a debacle on Aug. 31 will begin almost immediately to make sure the scene of a near empty stadium isn’t repeated for FAU’s next game on Sept. 29 vs. North Texas.

“By Friday at midnight I will have some data in my hand about what this place is and what are opportunities are,” Chun said. “By after that game I’ll have a better sense of what we have and what we can do.”

With a season ticket base of fewer than 5,000, there obviously is plenty to do.
 

6

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 6: DB Demetrius Williamson
Williamson was from safety to cornerback during training camp and has preformed well, positioning himself to see playing time this season.
 

Other FAU players who have worn No. 6: 

Jack Fenelon (2002)

Dekolan James (2004)

Frantz Simeon (2005-06)

Darian Thomas (2008-09) 

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Leaders emerge for this year's team

Other links...

• Academic center, stadium naming rights, new marketing plan priorities for new Florida Atlantic AD Pat Chun (Palm Beach Post)
• Scout team key to FAU's preparation for Wagner (Sun-Sentinel)
• Development of freshmen DLs Darrian Dyson and Fadol Brown provides key depth (Miami Herald)
• ULL stresses special teams (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
• MTSU ready, it hopes (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)
• UNT turns injury into depth at linebacker  (Denton Record Chronicle)
• South Alabama place-kicker goes from soccer to football (Mobile Press-Register)
• Hilltoppers closing in on opening day against Austin Peay (Bowling Green Daily News)

7

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 7: QB Melvin German
German, a JUCO All-American could be the starter sometime this season if he were to get final clearance to play this season. If not, German will only be allowed to practice and could play next season.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 7: 

  Taurian Osborne (2002-03)

Casey McGahee (2003-06)
Chris Bonner (2007-09)
David Kooi (2010-11)  

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Athletics: Pat Chun lays out preliminary plan
FAU Football: Photo Gallery from Thursday's 5th Annual Fall Bonfire

Other links...

• Academic center, stadium naming rights, new marketing plan priorities for new Florida Atlantic AD Pat Chun (Palm Beach Post)
• Pelini waiting to name starting quarterback (Sun-Sentinel)
• Benson wants Sun Belt-Conference USA rivalry (Monroe News-Star)
• Illness, injuries test MTSU secondary (Murfreesboro Daily News-Journal)
• South Alabama WR Corey Waldon comes back from injury (Mobile Press-Register)
• Troy running back ruled out for opener (Dothan Eagle)
• WKU lands Tampa-Freedom LB Isaac Tanner, who had an offer from FAU (Bowling Green Daily News)

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess

Today’s workout

FAU took the field just after 8:30 a.m. for practice on Friday.

Weather conditions

At 9:14 a.m. it was 3 degrees with 72 percent humidity under partly clody skies at the Boca Raton Airport adjacent to the Tom Oxley Practice Fields.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

• Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion
• Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess
• Facebook: OwlAccess
• E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Florida Atlantic Athletic Director Pat Chun laid out some of his priorities during a “meet-and-greet” session with several members of the media on Thursday.

Among the first things he will be working on? You guessed it - a new academic center. Ok, I admit, I was thrown for a loop when Chun said it, but the more he talked about it, the more it makes sense.

“It's the core mission of what we do,” Chun said. “We owe it to our student-athletes. ...It's more important than a weight room.”

Right now FAU's academic support infrastructure is housed primarily in one room in the second floor of the Oxley. I walk by it everyday, and it's nothing out of the ordinary.

Chun wants to change that and have a first class student-athlete academic center that would be a recruiting tool for all 19 of FAU's sports.

I never thought of it, but Chun is on the right track with this idea.

Of course, Chun also is already tackling fund-raising and mentioned his pursuit of naming rights for FAU Stadium, more than a few times.

One thing he didn't mention very much – The Ohio State University. Oh, Chun talked about the school where he worked for 15  years. However, each time he talked about Ohio State he called it “the school I was at” or “the other place.”

It was by design. Chun is fining himself $1 anytime he mentions Ohio State – and he did let it slip a time or two, so he is already raising funds at his first job since leaving “the other place.”

Peeking at Practice: Thursday's workout

• Making Plays: In kickoff drills, RB Martese Jackson and DB Adrian Burton were fielding kicks with RB Travis Jones also appearing in the mix
• Stepping Up: FAU was to decide on its starting QB on Thursday, but FAU coach Carl Pelini was vague about whether he made a decision on who would be starting under center vs. Wagner.
• Instant message: “I'm not going to post a depth chart for the public until next week. We're kind of working on it...at every position.”

- Pelini

• Up Next: The Owls return to the practice field at 8:30 a.m. On Friday.
   

8

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 8: WR Daniel McKinney
McKinney, a junior college transfer from City College of San Francisco, has had a solid training camp could make an impact at the slot receiver position.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 8: 

Tremaine Johnson (2001-02)

B.J. Manley (2003-07)

Xavi er Stinson (2008-11) 

 

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: New players arrive on Wednesday (Owl Access Pass Req.)
FAU Baseball: McCormack close to getting multi-year contract
FAU Football: Seahawk mascot safe at bonfire tonight

Other links ...

• For openers, Wagner College's football game next week at Florida Atlantic looks like a major test (SILive.com)
• Florida Atlantic steps up preparations for Wagner (Palm Beach Post)
• Sun Belt Commissioner Karl Benson talks basketball tournament, ESPN contract (Bowling Green Daily News)
• McCants joins Owls, confirming earlier Owl Access report (Sun-Sentinel)
• Former IU wide receiver Jay McCants surfaces at Florida Atlantic (Indianapolis Star)
• FIU's Mario Cristobal praises Darian Dyson (Miami Herald)
• ULL safety Darius Barksdale brings trouble to opposing offenses (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
• ULM linebacker returns after year-long suspension (Monroe News-Star)
• Numbers say MTSU will go 6-6 in 2012 (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)
• North Texas raising money for new basketball practice facility (Denton Record-Chronicle) 

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess

Today’s workout

FAU took the field just after 8:30 a.m. for practice on Thursday.

Weather conditions

At 9:34 a.m. it was 84 degrees with 74 percent humidity under partly clody skies at the Boca Raton Airport adjacent to the Tom Oxley Practice Fields.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

• Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion
• Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess
• Facebook: OwlAccess
• E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

FAU is still trying to build traditions and it’s not easy to predict what will or won’t catch on as Owl Nation grows.

But one of the most revered institutions is the Annual Fall Bonfire, which is in its fifth year – an eternity when it comes to events at FAU.

This year organizers upped the ante by bringing in The Misfits to headline the musical acts that will perform.

A well-know act may make up for the fact for the first time, an opponent’s mascot or another symbol isn't scheduled to be burned in effigy (I am told Owls coach Carl Pelini let it be known he was not in favor of torching Wagner's mascot). Regardless, the bonfire itself should be big, even if it won’t feature roasted Seahawk.

The event starts Thursday at 7 p.m. in the area near the track and field complex – if you see a 30-foot pile of wood you just might be in the right place.

Click here for more information

And even though a Seahawk isn't scheduled to be burned, we can still look back fondly at some past bonfires.
FAU students to turn up heat with annual bonfire

• Click here for the UAB mascot bonfire (2010)
• Click here for the WKU Big Red bonfire (2011)

9

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 9: TE Nexon Dorvilus

Dorvilus entered training camp in a tight battle with Alex DeLeon to take over the tight end spot vacated by Darian Williams. While the battle is still be tight, Dorvilus has been taking more snaps with the starting unit and appears to be the starter at this point.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 9: 

• Larry Taylor (2001-04)
• Taheem Acevedo (2006)
• Tarvoris Hill (2008-10)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Indiana WR Jay McCants has transferred to FAU
FAU Football: Curtis, Wilbert get last chance to make their case

Other links...

• Senior linebacker David Hinds is determined to turn the Owls into winners on the field and better men off it (University Press)
• A look into what’s ahead in year two at FAU Football Stadium (University Press)
• In FAU football’s new uptempo offense, the QB will have to play an even larger role (University Press)
• FAU still searching for starting QB (Palm Beach Post)
• Pelini to name starting quarterback Thursday (Sun-Sentinel)
• Offense and defense draw in Golden Panthers’ last full-pad scrimmage (Miami Herald)
• MTSU QB Kilgore wants to be a winner (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)
• North Texas turns attention to LSU (Denton Record Chronicle)

Go ahead and put this one in the "It's About Time" file.

Florida Atlantic and baseball coach John McCormack are currently discussing a multi-year contract.

The Sun Belt Conference's 2010 Coach of the Year, McCormack has been working on year-to-year deals since being promoted to head coach prior to the 2009 season.

The Owls have won two Sun Belt regular season titles (2010 and 2012) during McCormack's first four years at the helm and reached the NCAA Tournament in 2010.

His teams have won at least 30 games in each of McCormack's first four seasons propelling him to a 131-97 (70-47 Sun Belt) record. He's won despite having to recruit to a stadium more suited for a bad comedy movie (Port-O-Potties for bathrooms, bee infestations) and being challenged on the recruiting trail by coaches who could try to point out that McCormack's single-year contract suggests he won't be at FAU long.

Well, he has been at FAU longer than nearly anyone associated with the athletic department, having joined the baseball coaching staff in 1991. Newly hired Athletic Director Pat Chun is making the right move by ensuring McCormack will be around for a few more years.

A couple weeks after former Ohio State and Alabama wide receiver Duron Carter enrolled at FAU, the Owls have landed another former Big 10 wide receiver.

Jay McCants, who played as a true freshman at Indiana last season, is expected to begin practicing with the Owls on Wednesday morning, a source has told OwlAccess.com. Already admitted to the university, McCants will redshirt this season but will still have three years of eligibility remaining.

McCants caught six passes for 54 yards for the Hoosiers in 2011. Multiple media outlets reported that McCants was dismissed from Indiana following that season for an unspecified violation of team rules.

The 6-foot-4, 210-pound wideout caught 34 passes for 413 yards and six touchdowns as a senior at Princeton (OH).

McCants likely recognized some familiar faces upon arriving at FAU. Jeff Sims and Brett Diersen were both part of Indiana's recruiting office before coming to Boca Raton. Sims will be McCants' position coach for FAU.

Florida Atlantic coach Carl Pelini has been working on a depth chart, but he said Tuesday it's still a work in progress with some positions just too close to call.

“I got it in my hands about 4 yesterday,” Pelini said. “There are still a lot of questions. I think both sides of the ball have about seven what we would say 'locks' or guys who are definitely running 'one.' But each side of the ball has about three or four positions that need to be solidified.”

Of course, one of those positions is at quarterback.

Pelini has yet to name a starter for the Owls' game vs. Wagner on Aug. 31 and is giving Graham Wilbert, last year's starter, and Stephen Curtis each a chance at running the first-team offense this week.

“That's not defined,” Pelini said. “Stephen Curtis was actually running with the 'ones' (Tuesday) but Graham was running with the 'ones' (Monday)...we'll make a decision by Thursday when we start preparing specifically for Wagner.”

Speaking of preparing for the Seahawks, Pelini also said he will game-plan without including quarterback Melvin German and Duron Carter, who are still waiting to hear on their eligibility issues.

“Right now it's at that point where I can't handle the administrative side of that. That decision is out of my hands. I am moving forward as if they are not going to be here, but hopefully we get some good news in the next day or so and that will change how I am preparing. They are still getting reps – and quite a few reps, but you have to start thinking in terms of “I don't know when that decision is going to come.”

Peeking At Practice: Tuesday's Workout

• Making Plays: WR Derek Moise has had a pretty quiet camp, but made a nice TD grab from QB Graham Wilbert on Tuesday.
• Stepping Up: DB Cre'von LeBlanc has been making steady process and was working with the starting unit.
• Instant Message: “They need to start approaching practice with a sense of urgency assignment-wise. There are mistakes I just can't tolerate. The physical aspect is good, the mental aspect wasn't good enough.”

- Carl Pelini

• Up Next : The Owls return to the practice field at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday

10

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 10: QB Stephen Curtis

Curtis didn't play much last season, but did rush for a touchdown in the Owls' 38-14 loss vs. MTSU. He is in a tight battle with last year's starter, Graham Wilbert, to earn the starting assignment this season.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 10: 

• Quincy Skinner (2002-05)
• Rod Huggins (2007-09)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: NCAA wants more info on Duron Carter

FAU Baseball: Cody Meiers, brother of FAU pitcher Jake Meiers, dies

Other links

• Depth chart still fluid (Palm Beach Post)
• Pelini adjusting at FAU (Associated Press)
• Game plan for Golden Panthers is to be fast, furious (Miami Herald)
• Sims pleased with Owls' effort on first day of classes (Sun-Sentinel)
• Carter, Reed add options for ULL running game (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
• WAC to drop football after 2012 (Denver Post)
   

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess

Today’s workout

FAU took the field just after 8:30 a.m. for practice on Tuesday.

Weather conditions

Current conditions were not availavble from the Boca Raton Airport, but it was 83 degrees with 71 percent humidity in Delray Beach.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

• Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion
• Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess
• Facebook: OwlAccess
• E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Some very sad news to report today as Cody Meiers, the younger brother of FAU junior pitcher Jake Meiers, died Sunday after a long fight with Ewing's Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.

Even while battling the disease, Cody was often at FAU Stadium to cheer on his brother and the Owls and was an inspiration to the players on the team.

Many Owl fans have been keeping up with Cody since the baseball team shaved their heads at an event to help raise awareness for Ewing's Sarcoma. Cody is pictured with his father, John, at the event last year,

To find out more about how you can help find a cure for Ewing's Sarcoma and more on Cody's brave fight the last few years, visit codysangels.com

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Meiers family.
 

11

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 11: LB David Hinds

Hinds, a senior from Miami-Edison, has played in in 33 games in his career and was racked up 158 total tackles in his career.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 11: 

• Javony Ward (2002)
• Danny Embick (2003-04)
• Rusty Smith (2006-09)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Not much offense in Owls scrimmage on Sunday
FAU Football: Video highlights from FanFest

Other links

...Curtis scores only TD in scrimmage (Palm Beach Post)
...FIU plans to bus 1,00o students to its game at UCF (Miami Herald)
...ULL's Griffin switches to linebacker (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
...ULM depth chart has few changes (Monroe News-Star)
...South Alabama's Shane Doty finds home on defensive line (Mobile Press-Register)
...Troy defense end Tyler Roberts making big impact (Dothan Eagle)
 

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess

Today’s workout

FAU took the field just after 8:45 a.m. for the first "regular season" practice of 2012. It's also the first day of classes at FAU, so we are now in full regular-season mode.

Weather conditions

Current conditions were not availavble from the Boca Raton Airport, but it was 84 degrees with 76 percent humidity in Delray Beach.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

• Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion
• Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess
• Facebook: OwlAccess
• E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Florida Atlantic was back on the field Sunday to finish the scrimmage it started on Saturday at FanFest.

In a shocking development, (pun intended) it ended in a lightning delay with players scurrying off the field in a downpour.

For the record that is the third consecutive day that lightning affected an Owls afternoon workout after Friday's “practice” was a walk-through held under the bleachers.

The good news is that on Sunday, the Owls were essentially finished with the scrimmage when the sky began lighting up. The bad news is that for nearly 90 minutes the Owls didn't exactly light up the scoreboard.

“It wasn't crisp enough, but I'm used to it," Pelini said. "At the end of camp scrimmage you always feel you are a little slow.”

Media wasn't allowed to watch the scrimmage, but the SID staff said the only touchdown was scored by quarterback Stephen Curtis on a 10-yard run and the only other points came from two field goals and a PAT by Vinny Zaccario.

“There were some mental mistakes on both sides of the ball that I didn't like seeing,” Pelini said. “The offense moved the ball some and the defense did some good things.”

Although the Owls weren't frequent visitors to the end zone, Pelini said the scrimmage format only allowed a certain number of plays for each drive. In some of those drives that were cut short, the offense was knocking on the door, Pelini said.

“I stopped a couple of drives after we hit our play limit, because I was counting plays,” Pelini said.

Bright spots from the scrimmage? Pelini said Curtis played well.

“He did some good things,” Pelini said. “He's a good athlete, makes good throws and runs the ball well. For him it's more of a game-management thing, getting us in the right protections, putting us in the right plays and getting us lined up right. Those are the things he needs to get better at.'

Curtis (pictured at front of line) didn't get on the field Saturday although some believed he would be under center to start the scrimmage.

“I didn't get out yesterday so I was really glad to get out there,” Curtis said. “I think doing it in a scrimmage is a good evaluation.”

But on Sunday, apparently he made the most of his opportunity.

 12

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 12: WR Brian Sirmans

Sirmans played safety last season, but moved to receiver in he spring and surprised the coaches with his speed.

 Other FAU players who have worn No. 12:  

• Jared Allen (2001-04)
• Jeff VanCamp (2007-10)
• Andrew Bolognese (2011)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Scrimmage cut short
FAU Football: FanFest not a total wash-out

Other links

...New FAU jersey surfaces in Fan Shop (Sun-Sentinel)
...Rain washes out FAU scrimmage (Sun-Sentinel)
...Rain plays havoc with Florida Atlantic football scrimmage (Palm Beach Post)
...Pete Garcia puts FIU on the map, wants program to go the distance (Miami Herald)
...Sun Belt isn't a coaches' graveyard any longer (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
...Benson says future is bright for Sun Belt (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
...Intensity high in ULM's first scrimmage (Monroe News-Star)
...MTSU kickers battle in scrimmage (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)
...UNT defense shines in final preseason scrimmage (Denton Record-Chronicle)
...Brandon Ross shines in USA scrimmage (Mobile Press-Register)
...Troy defense leads way in scrimmage (Dothan Eagle)
...Hilltoppers’ junior college transfers have to play catch-up (Bowling Green Daily News)

 

FAU moved to a morning practice schedule this season after years after practicing in the afternoon.

Saturday provided a perfect example why that's probably a good move.

South Florida's regular afternoon thunderstorms have been ruthless the last two days while by my count rain has only halted practice in the morning once during training camp.

After lightning forced the Owls to practice underneath the bleachers on Friday night in the workout that unofficially brought training to a close, a wicked thunderstorm brought Saturday's FanFest to a grinding halt.

The scrimmage lasted just 18 plays, before lightning forced the team to the locker room. After around a 90-minute delay, the event and scrimmage was canceled.

Before it was washed out, however, players signed autographs for the fans who stuck around. It's always neat to see children waving Sharpies at the players trying to get their autographs as if the FAU players were playing in the NFL.

“That was enjoyable to see all the support,” said redshirt junior tight end Nexon Dorvilus. “All those little kids, they probably don't even know our names, they just look up to us. It feels good to be like a role model that someone can just look up to as a source of inspiration or motivation. That's always great to do.”

Somehow, seeing the look on the players and kids faces' made Saturday's washout not seem so bad.
 

 13

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 13: CB Treon Howard

It’s very likely that Howard will be one of the Owls’ starting cornerbacks this season. Howard is bet known for the interception he returned for a touchdown on UAB’s first play from scrimmage during the Owls’ victory over the Blazers last season.
 

Other FAU players who have worn No. 13:

• Joel Fosselman (2001-03)
• Ricky Bethel (2004-06)
• Grant Glover (2007-09)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Owls ready for preseason scrimmage
FAU Hoops: Former G Ray Taylor to play for FIU

Other links...

FAU ends grueling preseason camp with energetic effort (Sun-Sentinel)
Former FAU C-2B Mike Albaladejo suspended from minor leagues for violating drug policy (Washington Post)
FIU ranked No. 38 by CBS Sports computer formula (Miami Herald)
Brothers starting on offensive line for ULL (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
Younger Warhawks to get work in scrimmage (Monroe News-Star)
MTSU newcomers preparing for season (Murfreesboro Daily News-Journal)
Defensive line part of focus of final UNT scrimmage (Denton Record-Chronicle)
Troy starting defensive tackle ruled ineligible (Dothan Eagle)
Hilltoppers hope to leave last season’s kicking woes in past (Bowling Green Daily News)
 

FIU has announced that former FAU guard Ray Taylor has joined its basketball team and will be eligible to play in 2013-14.

Taylor left FAU after the 2011-12 season and applied for the NBA Draft.

An FAU press release announcing Taylor’s departure in March said he intended to sign with an agent, but apprently he never put pen to paper. Taylor withdrew from the draft on June 19.

Taylor will join Dennis Mavin, who also left the Owls and has transferred to FIU.
 

 14

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 14: QB Graham Wilbert

Wilbert was the Owls starter last season and is still in a very close battle to hold that position. Wilbert struggled in 2011 and the Owls have switched offensive systems, but Wilbert still has the most experience and had shown some improvement in training camp.
 

Other FAU players who have worn No. 14:

• Garrett Jahn (2001-02)
• McKinson Souverain (2004)
• Terrance Hall (2005)
• Jason Grant (2007)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football:Pelini hits reset on Thursday's practice

Other links...

• Florida Atlantic pumps up the volume to prepare for loud SEC stadiums (Palm Beach Post)
• Florida Atlantic looking for quarterback to run its new spread offense (Palm Beach Post)
• FAU TE coach Jared Allen helps transition (Sun-Sentinel)
• FIU scrimmage closed to public (Miami Herald)
• ULL RB Jones turning heads early (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
• Lane making case at Hawk, corners battle heating up (Monroe News Star)
• Blue Raiders cap "toughness" week (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)
• As South Alabama's excitement grows, expectations should be tempered (Mobile Press Register)

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess

Today’s workout

FAU took the field just after 9:30 a.m. for the first of two practices today. The Owls will also hold a practice at 6:30 p.m., the last of the "2-a-day" practices for this preseason

Weather conditions

At 10:10 a.m. it was 84 degrees with 79 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport adjacent to the Tom Oxley Practice Fields.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

• Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion
• Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess
• Facebook: OwlAccess
• E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

After a streak of some good, high-energy practices, FAU had a bit of a setback on Thursday.

Owl coach Carl Pelini said a few minutes into the practice, he didn't like what he saw so he blew the whistle and started the practice from the beginning.

After Pelini hit the reset button, he said the team responded.

“We started over about 20 minutes in,” Pelini said. “It's the end of camp, they came out dead-legged and didn't have a lot of enthusiasm. ...I think they came back and I think they got my message and learned a lesson.”

These things will happen when you get this deep into camp. By my count, Thursday's workout was the 18th practice in 16 days since camp opened on Aug. 1.

The good news is the unofficial end of traing camp is in sight. After the last  "2-a-day" on Friday, the Owls will scrimmage at FanFest on Saturday.

Then, after a day off, the Owls will regroup on Monday to start practices that will begin to emphasize game prep for Wagner.

It's a sure sign that the season is near and the ones who are most excited about that are the players.

Hard Knocks At The Ox: Thursday's Training Camp Report

• Making Plays: RB Jonathan Wallace appears to be getting stronger as training camp is going on. He's had a few nice runs where he shows some physicality to spring loose.
• Stepping Up: A few days after LB Andrae Kirk was splitting time with LB Randell Johnson with the starting unit, Kirk is getting plenty of action there with Johnson on the sidelines with his arm in a sling and a walking boot. Johnson has turf toe and a strained pectoral muscle, but Carl Pelini said he expects Johnson back next week.
• Newcomer Watch: After reporting late, DB Adrian Burton is still getting used to the speed of camp, but looks like he is catching up quickly.
• Instant Message: “We wear different shoe sizes, so I'm not wearing his shoes. ...We are different people, we coach different ways and we were groomed under different people. I don't think about that, I just try to do things as good as I think I can do them. "

- Carl Pelini when asked about stepping into Howard Schnellenberger's shoes

• Up Next: The Owls hold the last "2-a-day" on Friday with workouts at 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

It looks like it's time to update the FAU recruiting board as the Owls have reportedly picked up a verbal commitment from Tampa-Chamberlain quarterback/wide receiver Ronnie Scott.

Chamberlain coach D.J. Mayo told the Tampa Tribune that Scott committed to FAU.

According to Rivals.com, the only other school Scott was recruited by was Florida A&M.

Scott is the third commitment for FAU's 2013 recruiting class.

 15

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 15: LB Randell Johnson

Johnson is expected to be one of the top players on the team this season and projected to be a starter, althoiugh Andrae Kirk is battling Johnson in training camp. It hasn't helped that Johnson has missed practice with an injury the last few days, but Johnson is expected back next week.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 15:

Matt Prudenti (2001-03)

Carldayle Brantley (2004)

Sean Clayton (2005-07)

David Kooi (2008-09)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Owls to use running backs by committee

Other links...

...FAU depth chart in limbo over Melvin German, Duron Carter eligibility concerns (Sun-Sentinel)

...FIU has physical special teams scrimmage (Miami Herald)

...ULL's Butler ready to play (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

...ULM veterans stepping up (Monroe News-Star)

...New South Alabama offense a great fit for Jereme Jones (Mobile Press-Register)

...Classes disrupt practice at Troy (Dothan Eagle)

...Hilltoppers’ excitement at new high to start 2012 (Bowling Green Daily News)

 

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess

Today’s workout

FAU took the field just after 9:30 a.m. for today's practice.

Weather conditions

At 10:03 a.m. it was 84 degrees with 79 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport adjacent to the Tom Oxley Practice Fields.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

• Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion
• Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess
• Facebook: OwlAccess
• E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

 16

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 16: QB Nick Bracewell

Bracewell, a redshirt sophomore, has yet to play in a game in his career and faces an uphill battle this season to see playing time. However, coach Carl Pelini likes some of what he's seen from Bracewell in training camp and says he is still in the hunt in the Owls' pre-season QB battle.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 16:

Brittney Tellis (2001-02)

Etiene Menard (2002)

Dane Hansen (2003)

Cortez Gent (2006-09)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Owls enjoy youth clinic after practice

Other links

FAU Sports for dummies (University Press)
FAU says no high school football games at FAU Stadium this year (Palm Beach Post)
Florida Atlantic defensive tackles making seamless transition to new defense (Sun-Sentinel)
Georgia State coach Bill Curry to retire at end of season (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
Depth of talent a big plus for FIU (Miami Herald)
ULL's Jake Molbert worth the wait (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
Blue Raiders getting physical (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)
UNT OL Coleman Feeley works to return as starter (Denton Record Chronicle)
South Alabama defensive lineman Randon Carnathan says bigger will be better (Mobile Press-Register)
Troy OL Zach Johnson has eye-opening experience in Guatemala (Dothan Eagle)
 

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess

Today’s workout

FAU took the field just after 9:30 a.m. for the first today's two practices. There will be another practice at 6:30 p.m. to complete today's "2-A-Day" session.

Weather conditions

At 10:03 a.m. it was 81 degrees with 94 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport adjacent to the Tom Oxley Practice Fields.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

• Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion
• Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess
• Facebook: OwlAccess
• E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

We are getting bogged down in the tough part of training camp. This week there are three two-a-days and the adenaline of the start of camp is long gone.

Maybe that's why when kids from a Boca Raton Pop Warner program showed up after practice on Tuesday, FAU players had smiles as big as the kids that were running through drills.

My favorite part was when one of the coaches said that he thought one of the kids had put on FAU gear and then pointed to walk-on receiver Robert Lohnes. Lohnes is generously listed at 5-foot-6, 140-pounds but may have been an inch or two shorter by some of the older kids who were out there.

So far in training camp, Lohnes hasn't just been a tacking dummy, either. With DeAndre Richardson out for the opener, William Dukes missing some recent workouts with an injury and freshman wide receiver Chris Gilchrist still trying to clear up some eligibility issues, the Owls receiving corps is pretty thin. It's gotten to the point where Lohnes, who is from Tampa-Freedom, has actually been taking some reps with the first unit.

Will he stick there? I doubt it, but this guy has something the coaches like, so I think it's possible he'll make the squad in some capacity. He just better hope that he's not going against some of the Boca Braves!

Here's a photo gallery of the Owls at the youth clinic.

Hard Knox At The Ox: Tuesday's Training Camp Report

• Making Plays: DL Matt Chaney showed some quick reflexes as he batted down a Stephen Curtis at the line of scrimmage.
• Stepping Up: DE Andrew Stryffler has recovered from his injury early in camp and was back at defensive end with the starting unit.
• Newcomer Watch: DB Jeremy McKinight, a JUCO transfer, is still taking snaps with the starters and looks to be pretty entrenched at that position.
• Instant message: “I think we are over the hump a little bit. They did a nice job fighting through today. Last night's practices was maybe the best we have had and I think we stepped forward again today.”

- FAU defensive coordinator Pete Rekstis

• Up Next: FAU returns to the practice field Wednesday for another two-a-day session. Workouts are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

 17

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No. 17: DB Damian Parms

Parms played in seven games last season as a true freshman recording two tackles. In this year's training camp, Parms has been playing mostly as a backup safety.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 17:

Ryan Rankin (2001)
Roosevelt Bynes (2003-04)
Chad Wilkes (2005-08)
Darian Thomas (2007)
Mickey Groody (2009-11)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Pelini, players like music pumping during practice

Other links...

...Brett Diersen teaching basics to help turn around Florida Atlantic's special teams (Sun-Sentinel)

...Tennessee Titans' Rusty Smith impresses as No. 3 quarterback (The Tennessean)'

...Former ASU RB Michael Dyer to Prairie View A&M? (SaturdayBlitz.com)

...Tight competition at tight end for FIU (Miami Herald)

...ULL uses Mathieu as an example (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

...Former Blue Raider Ellarbee now an assistant coach (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)

...North Texas holds first scrimmage (Denton Record Chronicle)

...South Alabama's Tyrell Pearson impresses even on tape (Mobile Press-Register)

...Troy freshman RB Burks challenging for playing time (Dothan Eagle)
 

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess

Today’s workout

FAU took the field just after 9:30 a.m. for today's practice. There is a youth clinic scheduled for after the workout

Weather conditions

At 10:04 a.m. it was 79 degrees with 94 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport adjacent to the Tom Oxley Practice Fields.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

• Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion
• Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess
• Facebook: OwlAccess
• E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Music has been blaring from behind the Oxley Center during the Owls' practices the last few days.

It's cranked up so loud on the powerful sound system at the adjacent FAU Soccer Stadium that I'm surprised it's not rattling the windows of the administration building where former FAU coach Howard Schnellenberger now has his office.

Suffice to say, Schnellenberger didn't pump up the jams during his practices, but the players dig having tunes play at an ear-splitting level from the first to the last whistle of practice.

“I like that we play music now,” said redshirt junior cornerback Keith Reaser. “When you are tired, it's just something that can help you get going again and keep moving. Getting music out here was a good way of keeping us motivated.”

And it looks like Owls coach Carl Pelini approves of the soundtrack which features Aerosmith, Linkin Park, Led Zeppelin – and a few hip-hop artists I couldn't begin to identify.

On Monday's night practice, as the easily recognizable first few notes of Guns and Roses' “Welcome to the Jungle” signaled the start of practice Pelini pumped his fists in the air with music like he was at a concert, not a two-a-day. He also did a Pete Townsend-style windmill on the air guitar.

But Pelini says, the music is not for him. It's for the players.

“Whatever it takes to loosen some up and get them having some fun out here,” Pelini said. “It's all about having fun right?

On Monday, it looked like he was enjoying the tunes just a little bit too, which was kind of neat. And for those about to rock...

Hard Knocks at the Ox: Monday's Training Camp Report

• Making Plays: RB Damian Fortner is doing well in training camp both running and catching the ball as it is becoming evident running backs are going to be asked to do a lot in this offense.
• Stepping Up: DT Brandin Bryant, a junior college transfer from Fort Scott CC, has been earning some snaps with the first team defense.
• Newcomer Watch: True freshman DB Jeremy Gaskins has been sidelined the last few days while he cleared up some paperwork issues, but returned to practice on Monday.
• Instant Message: “It was good. We had a good day today.”

- FAU coach Carl Pelini on the Owls' third “two-a'day” practice session.

• Up Next: The Owls return to the practice fields at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday and also will conduct a youth clinic following the workout.

Today’s workout

After a morning workout, FAU is on the field for Monday's evening practice. 

Weather conditions

At 7:08 p.m. it was 84 degrees with 74 percent humidity.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion

Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess

Facebook: OwlAccess

E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess 

 18

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 18:  DB Christian Milstead

Milstead was close to cracking the lineup last season at cornerback and has taken some snaps with the starting unit in the preseason when the Owls have played predominantly in the nickel package.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 18:

Tom Keane (2002)
Mark Maycock (2005-06)
Antonio Rodriguez (2008-11)
Alex Pecorella (2007-08)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: German still in hunt for QB

FAU Football: Pelini plans just one preseason scrimmage

Other links

...Owls don new practice jerseys as Sun Belt referees attend practice (Sun-Sentinel)

...Hilton’s absence gives Panthers wide receivers chance to shine (Miami Herald)

...Freshman Cajuns QB has family connection (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

...ULM's Blakes ready to finish what he started (Monroe News Star)

...Calhoun stars in MTSU scrimmage (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)

...South Alabama gets verbal commitment from Florida football prospect (Mobile Press-Register)

...Troy has depth across the defensive front (Dothan Eagle)


 

FAU players took the field in their new uniforms on Sunday.

OK, so they were just new practice uniforms - not the new game uniforms that will be making their debut soon - and the biggest change was a nice stripe on the white jerseys the offense wears. The ones Adidas sent for the beginning of camp were already falling apart, so they sent some new ones.

And, speaking of stripes (what a segue!) – the players weren't the only ones in stripes on the fields Sunday as a full crew of officials took the field for Sunday's practice.

Was a scrimmage about to break-out?

Actually, no. FAU coach Carl Pelini isn't a big fan of the full-practice, full contact scrimmage. In fact, the one for Saturday's FanFest is the only one planned of training camp.

“I don't believe in missing a day of practice for a scrimmage,” Pelini said. “We'll pick a period each practice and go live for about 10 or 15 minutes. I just don't want to sacrifice a day of practice for a scrimmage. Everything we do in practice is live, we just don't tackle on every period.”

Pelini said the officials were at training camp to talk to the coaching staff about rule changes for this season.

The rule change that Pelini is most concerned with?

“The cut-block back on the sway plays. You have to be in the backfield to do it. That changes a lot offensively and defensively.”

Hard Knocks At The Ox: Sunday's Training Camp Report

• Making Plays: WR Duron Carter had a nice catch down the sideline from Graham Wilbert. After practice FAU coach Carl Pelini said the Owls could hear from the NCAA in the next week. “They won't ever give you a timeline. It's kind of what their backload is and how many they have in the system. But I would expect to know something this week on Duron.”
• Stepping Up: DT Karl James has only played one game in his career, but is having a solid camp and is solidly in the rotation up front.
• Newcomer Watch: On the subject of eligibility, Pelini said news could be coming on QB Melvin German as well. “It has to go through the university and I would say 48 to 72 hours for the final answers.”
• Instant Message: “It was like pulling teeth tonight. We squatted them heavy yesterday and it was like a first practice after a heavy squat. I think they worked hard at it and pushed themselves, but they were kind of dead in the legs.”

- Pelini on Sunday's practice.

• Up Next: FAU returns to the practice field on Monday for another two-a-day session. Workouts are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. And 6:30 p.m.

Today’s workout

After a day off FAU is back on the field for a night session on Sunday, The Owls started at 6:30 p.m. and will go to about 8:30 p.m.

For today's session the Owls have some new practice uniforms and some referees are here - usually indicating some sort of live scrimmaging is possible.

Weather conditions

At 6:59 p.m. it was 81 degrees with 89 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport. It was not raining at the start of practice, but it has rained in Boca Raton for some of the afternoon so the field is quite soggy,

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion

Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess

Facebook: OwlAccess

E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess 

 19

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 19:  WR William Dukes

Dukes played in all but one game and had 12 catches for 75 yards as a true freshman last season. This season he is in the battle to be one of the Owls’ starting wideouts.

Other FAU players who have worn No. 19:

Andy Rosas 02-03
Frantz Simeon 04
Chris Bonner 06
Alex Fick 07-09
Treon Howard 09-10

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: St. Thomas Aquinas OL Austin Bland has an offer from FAU

Other articles...

Defense dominates offense in FIU scrimmage (Miami Herald)
ULL looking for replacement for Green (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
ULM's Blakes ready to finish what he started (Monroe News-Star)
First UNT scrimmage sheds light on key players (Denton Record-Chronicle)
Blakeney voices support for staff during Troy's Media Day (Dothan Eagle)
WKU defenders setting high goals (Bowling Green Daily News)

 

Just got off the phone with St. Thomas Aquinas offensive lineman Austin Bland who cleared up where his stands with FAU.

Earlier today, Owl Access reported that he had committed to the Owls, but Bland said he is still undecided after receiving an offer from FAU this week.

“No, I haven’t committed to them,” Bland said. “I am interested in them, but right now I am still just keeping my options open.”

In cases like this often someone, like a family member, may have told a member of the coaching staff that the player was on the verge of committing and then the rumor mill gets churning. However, it’s pretty clear that Bland did not commit to FAU and he probably will wait a while before making his college choice.

It’s too bad, because not only does Bland have some pretty solid scouting reports, but FAU could use a pipeline to St. Thomas Aquinas, one of the top football schools in the local area. FAU traditionally hasn’t had many players from St. Thomas Aquinas with former punter Mickey Groody being the most notable former Raider (although new FAU wide receiver Duron Carter is from there as well.)

While Bland didn’t commit, he did confirm that he has been offered by the Owls and will consider playing for FAU. That’s a good sign that the FAU coaching staff is interested in bringing St. Thomas Aquinas players to Boca Raton.
 

 20

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 20:  S David Lozandier (pictured) and WR Billy Perez

The 6-foot, 210-pound Lozandier played in 10 games last season as a true freshman. Lozandier, who switched his number from 37 to 20, signed with FAU in 2010, but didn’t enroll until the next year, giving him an extra year to mature.

Perez is a walk-on redshirt sophomore who played at Park Vista High School.

Other FAU Players who have worn No. 21:

• Eric Harper (2001-04)
• Jason Harmon (2005)
• Charles Pierre (2006-08)
• Ross Gornall (2009-10)
• D.J. Frye-Smith (2011)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football:

Freshman WR Adrian Burton cleared, practices Friday 

Other Links...

Carl Pelini sees progress with new Florida Atlantic defense (Sun-Sentinel)

FIU scrimmage will highlight new offense (Miami Herald)

ULL scrimmage set today (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

Kameel Jackson transfers to ULM from Oklahoma, brother Kenzee from Texas A&M-Commerce (Monroe News Star)

Blue Raiders are deep on OL (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)

Youngsters get chance with UNT scrimmage (Denton Record Chronicle)

South Alabama running back Terrance Timmons taking advantage of extra work (Mobile Press-Register)

Troy prepares for Saturday scrimmage (Dothan Eagle)

Taggart, Toppers plan to be undefeated in 2012 (Bowling Green Daily News)

 

The FAU receiving corps grew by another player on Friday as freshman wide receiver Adrian Burton cleared up his eligibility  issues and practiced for the first time during Friday's evening practice.

Due to NCAA rules Burton practiced without pads and won't be in full pads for a few days.

It was much too early to get an assesment from Owls coach Carl Pelini.

“He's just getting his legs,” Pelini said after Friday's second practice of the day.

Burton has been attending FAU's practices regularly since training camp opened last week.

Burton was a receiver and a defensive back for Pompano Beach-Ely. It is believed Burton will be used as a slot receiver in FAU's offense.

I asked Pelini if Burton can still have an impact and his answer was pretty simple.

“We're expecting him to,” Pelini said.

After Burton's arrival, there are just two players remaining to br cleared to practice - or maybe just one. It's believed that linebacker Adarius Glanton could be in camp soon, but running back Jarvon Anderson likely won't join the team until the fall semester at the earliest.

Hard Knocks At The Ox: Friday's Training Camp Report

• Making Plays: WR Daniel McKinney continued his solid play and had a nice long reception from QB Melvin German late in the night practice.
• Stepping Up: DT Karl James is working hard in practice and could makes things interesting on the interior of the defensive line.
• Newcomer Watch: CB Cre'von LeBlanc came in with a reputation as a hard-hitter and so far in camp has done enough to get in the rotation at corner.
• Instant Message: “The quarterbacks are dealing with a wet ball and the receivers are dealing with a wet ball. You want a little bit of it, but not a lot.”

- FAU coach Carl Pelini on practicing in the rain on Friday morning.

• Up Next: The Owls are off Saturday before returning to the practice field on Sunday at 6:30 p.m.

 21

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 21:  CB D'Juan Smith

Smith was known as D.J. Frye-Smith last season when he played in every regular-season game and returned 23 kickoffs for 480 yards. Smith is expected to be competing for a starting cornerback spot this season.

Other FAU Players who have worn No. 21:

Darrion Porter-Isom (2001-05)

Erick McIntosh (2006-08)

Ryan Paros (2007-08)

Malik Eugene (2010)

Tony Moore (2011)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Tight end battle very close

Other links

...Alfred Morris impressive in Redskins RB battle (ESPN.com)

...FIU coach Mario Cristobal praises work of quarterback Jake Medlock (Miami Herald)

...ULL receivers look to the future (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

...ULM seniors provide leadership (Monroe News Star)

...MTSU DBs tout talent (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)

Today’s workout

FAU is back on the field for Friday's workouts, The Owls will practice twice today with sessions starting at 9:30 a.m. and 6;30 p.m.

Weather conditions

At 10:06 a.m. it was 84 degrees with 68 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion

Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess

Facebook: OwlAccess

E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess 

22

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 22:  RB Damian Fortner

Fortner has good hands and good speed who will be in the mix at running back this season after carrying seven times for 13 yards last season.

 Other FAU Players who have worn No. 22:

Lawrence Gordon 02-05
Jason Grant 06
Keegan Peterson 07-09

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Duron Carter's paperwork sent to NCAA

Other links...

ULL safety back for sixth season (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

Injured Warhawk starters embrace fall camp (Monroe News-Star)

McGuire named MTSU baseball coach (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)

Mean Green showing more bulk this season (Denton Record-Chronicle)

South Alabama goes through its first two-a-day practice (Mobile Press-Register)

Battle for top RB wide open at WKU (Bowling Green Daily News)

Today’s workout

FAU is back on the field for Thursday's workout, which lasts until around 11:30 a.m.

Weather conditions

At 9:59 a.m. it was 82 degrees with 74 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion

Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess

Facebook: OwlAccess

E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess 

Florida Atlantic has officially applied for a waiver of an NCAA transfer rule that would allow Owls wide receiver Duron Carter to play this season and have two years of eligibility remaining.

The request is on the basis of a hardship for Carter, who transferred from Alabama, but didn't play last season for the Crimson Tide and there is no timetable for an expected ruluing by the NCAA.

Carter was academically ineligible at Alabama due to late paperwork regarding a class he took at Palm Beach State College last year.

If Carter is granted the waiver, he could suit up for the Owls this season and in 2013. If the waiver is denied, he will practice with FAU this season and have a year of eligibility remaining for next season.

Carter has stints at Ohio State and Coffeyville (Kansas) Community College

Hard Knocks at The Ox: Wednesday's Training Camp Report

• Making Plays: The Owls concluded the two-a-day sessions with some live two-minute drill, capped by a nice 15-yard run by RB Travis Jones.
• Stepping Up: LT DeAndre Williams appears to be having a solid camp and has been seeing plenty of work with the starters.
• Newcomer Watch: JUCO transfer Mustafa Johnson is benefiting from a impressive spring and making a case for the starting center job as he battles Jordan Sessa. Those two are ahead of Jimmie Colley, who has been battling injuries during training camp.
• Instant message: “We're pushing them as hard as any team I've ever been around. I'm sure they're not used to this pace and this tempo, and we are going to figure out who the cowards are and who the guys are that want to play. That's what camp is about. I'm old-fashioned that way.”

                                                                                                                                        - Owls coach Carl Pelini

• Up Next: FAU returns to the practice field at 9:30 a.m. Thursday.

23

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 23:  DB Winfred Strickland

Strickland is a tough hitter who has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. However, the 6-foot, 185-pound junior appears to be healthy for this year's training camp and is expected to be competing for playing time at cornerback.

 Other FAU Players who have worn No. 23:

Lee Pasick (2001-03)
Anthony Heard (2004)
Ryan Paros (2006)
Jason Haynes (2007)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Athletics: Three things new AD Pat Chun should do immediately

FAU Basketball: FAU releases the 2012-13 schedule

Other links... 

Inexperienced FAU receivers working to fit in new offense (Sun-Sentinel)

Arkansas State AD reassigned (ArkansasSports360.com)

FIU cornerbacks Sam Miller, Richard Leonard have more confidence this season (Miami Herald)

Cajuns freshman LB Alexander earns early accolades (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

ULM camp will have new approach, same mindset (Monroe News-Star)

Linebackers give Nix full attention (Daily News Journal)

Today’s workout

For the first time this training camp, FAU will hold a "two-a-day" practice. The first workout is at 9:30 a.m. and the second begins at 6:30 p.m. Practices are closed to the media and the public.

Weather conditions

At 9:56 a.m. it was 86 degrees with 74 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion

Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess

Facebook: OwlAccess

E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess 

The smell of food permeated the Oxley Center on Tuesday from a full-catered lunch in the Founders' Room.

I also heard from some athletic department staffers that new Athletics Director Pat Chun was working in the Oxley Center after going through orientation on Monday.

I thought to myself that if a daily lunch buffet is in Chun's plans, he is already off to a rousing start as the next AD at FAU.

Later, I found it the free grub was a celebration of the student-athletes who graduated that morning.

And, in the grand scheme of things, food for the media should be low on Chun's list of priorities.

What should be on top of Chun's to-do-list? Why I'm glad you asked.

Here are the first things I would say Chun needs to address in his first few days as FAU's AD...

• Re-connect with donors: We know fund-raising will be important to Chun and the best way to start is to try and mend fences with the many (and I mean many) donors who believed in FAU enough to give in the past, but became disenchanted with the way things were going with the Owls athletic department. It's time to let them know things are going to be different and they can help again.
• Free the airwaves: Sources tell us that FAU plans to charge fans to listen to internet radio broadcasts this season for its football, basketball and maybe even baseball games. Also, FAU won't allow ESPN760.com to stream the broadcasts. This, obviously, is a horrible idea. Apparently FAU cares more about fleecing the few fans it has now than about growing its fan base by trying to expose its product to as many people as possible. Chun should stop this plan dead in its tracks before it alienates the few fans it has.
• Start selling tickets: I am hearing some very, very low numbers when it comes to the possible attendance for the first football game of the season. I've heard all the excuses - It's Wagner. It's on a Friday night. Many students won't be on campus. I've heard them all, and they are all valid. However, for the first game in Carl Pelini's career, it would be embarrassing to be playing in front of a small crowd. It's time to launch an offensive to make sure the crowd that Friday looks like its for a college football game instead of the level of ball we usually see on Friday nights under the lights.

Hard Knocks At The Ox: Tuesday's Training Camp Report

• Making Plays: TE Nexon Dorvilus caught a nice TD pass in 3rd-down-drills. Dorvilus had a solid spring and it has carried over to the fall.
• Stepping Up: QB Stephen Curtis took snaps with the starting unit during the last drill of the day, another indication that the QB battle between Curtis and Graham Wilbert is very, very close.
• Newcomer Watch: DT Kayvon Sherrill, a JUCO transfer, was taking some snaps with the starters and should be in the rotation of players who will play there this fall.
• Up Next: The Owls are back on the practice field on Wednesday for the first two-a-day session. After practicing at 9:30 a.m. FAU will hold another practice at 6:30 p.m.

24

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 24:  DB Brent Harstad

Harstad, who has been listed as Brentley until this year, appears to have the lead on one of the Owls' safety positions. Harstad has two career interceptions and is best known for his pick-six in the 2010 season-opening victory at UAB.

 Other FAU Players who have worn No. 24:

Willie Hughley (2002-05)
Tarvoris Hill (2007)
Amos Woods Jr. (2008)
DeAndre Richardson (2009)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Tampa-Jesuit CB Reggie Brown commits to the Owls

FAU Football: Pelini sees advantages in off day

Other links... 

• Graham Wilbert doesn't want to be outrun for FAU's starting quarterback job (Sun-Sentinel)
• Brian Wright brings his unique, modern offense to FAU (Sun-Sentinel)
• Panthers move Shae Smith to center. (Miami Herald)
• Benson raves about Cajuns' football future (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)
• Redshirt freshmen duo battling for left tackle starting spot (Daily News Journal)
• UNT's McCarney telling his players 2011 unacceptable (Denton Record Chronicle)
• Troy's Chip Reeves playing with 'sense of urgency' (Dothan Eagle)

Today’s workout

After a day off on Mionday, FAU is on the field for the sixth workout of the 2012 training camp on Tuesday.

Weather conditions

At 10:02 a.m. it was 84 degrees with 74 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion

Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess

Facebook: OwlAccess

E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess 

Updated 9:01 p.m. -  Florida Atlantic picked up its second commitment for their 2013 recruiting class on Monday.

Tampa-Jesuit defensive back Reggie Brown has committed to the Owls, a source told OwlAccess, confirming an earlier report from BrightHouse Sports Network.

The 5-foot-10, 162-pound Brown had offers from by Boston College, Rutgers and several non-BCS teams according to Rivals.com.

Brown also played WR for the Tigers.

Brown will join Jacksonville-Mandarin wide receiver Kamrin Solomon in the Owls’ 2013 recruiting class.
 

Monday was a day off for players before resuming training camp on Tuesday and the first of three days off during training camp.

That's “days” off. Plural. More than one.

Under Howard Schnellenberger it was standard procedure to have one scheduled day off during training camp.

But Owls coach Carl Pelini wants his players to be fresh for their practice sessions. Thanks to exams, players were given a break on Monday before getting back at it on Tuesday with the first two-a-day scheduled for Wednesday.

“I always ;like to give them a day off a week during camp just so they can regroup mentally and get off their feet,” Pelini said. “Hopefully they'll take advantage of it. ...A day off will be good for them and hopefully they'll come out fresher on Tuesday.”

There was some notable activity scheduled for Monday, however.

Athletic Director Pat Chun was to begin his orientation with the FAU human resources department on his first official day of work.

Also, the football team took their headshots and their videos for the scoreboard at the stadium and modeled the new uniforms the Owls will wear this season. Hopefully some pictures will leak out.

And last, but not least, Pelini allowed the media to stick around for nearly an hour into Sunday's practice allowing some of the first images of players doing more than stretching.

Here's a photo gallery from Sunday's workout.

25

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 25:  RB Travis Jones

 Other FAU Players who have worn No. 25:

Taheem Acevedo (2003-04)
John DeSheilds (2005-06)
Jeff Blanchard (2007-09)
Terrell Bradley (2009)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Carter won't be allowed to cut corners at FAU

Other links...

...Duron Carter excused from FAU practice (Sun-Sentinel)

...Duron Carter's wakeup call shows conviction of FAU staff (Sun-Sentinel)

...Weight is worth it for FIU safety Justin Halley (Miami Herald)

...After huge season last year, UL kicker Baer ready to start fresh (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

...MTSU D-Line bigger this year (Murfeesboro Daily News Journal)

...UNT begins practice Monday (Denton Record-Chronicle)

...WKU also begins practice Monday (Bowling Green Daily News)

Florida Atlantic may have had its first day in pads on Sunday, but all the attention was on a player who wasn't taking part in the full contact portion of practice.

After Owl Access broke the news on Saturday that wide receiver Duron Carter had joined the team, Sunday was the first time I was able to watch to see him go through drills.

And since reporters were allowed to watch a few more periods than usual on Sunday, I can report that Carter looks good and the coaching staff is definitely working hard to get him in shape.

But one thing that is clear, Carter is not going to be getting any breaks because he was a big-time recruit.

In one exchange, FAU receivers coach Jeff Sims dressed him down and had him doing push-ups for giving less than 100 percent effort. And that was less than five feet away from Carter's father, former NFL receiver Cris Carter. Ouch!

Sims said Carter has work to do after joining the team late.

“Right now he's brand new and I'm coaching him like he's just one of the guys, but being that he started a couple of late, we try to get a few extra things in to get him in shape,” Sims said. “We're just trying to get him so he can fit in with our group and fit in with the Owls.”

After Sims dressed down Carter, the two went through some pretty intense, but good-natured, individual bump-and-run drills, with Carter winning at least one (pictured) much to the delight of the other players, who were pulling for Carter.

Now that he is on the field, the real drama will begin. On Monday morning, FAU will begin the official process of applying for a waiver to get him on the field. It seems like a situation where it's more likely he will be practicing this season and allowed to play in 2013, but everyone is hoping it will be worked out so that Carter will be playing this season.

Hard Knocks At The Ox: Sunday's Training Camp Report

• Making Plays: The tryouts could be continuing at the important slot receiver position. Sunday it was WR Marcus Cunningham who saw his first action of the spring in the slot.
• Stepping Up: With the contact underway, the depth chart will really begin to take shape. On Sunday, DT Matt Chaney was getting plenty of praise from the coaching staff possibly grabbing on to one of the starting spots.
• Newcomer Watch: RB Martese Jackson has looked good in practices lately.
• Instant Message: “There is fatigue out there and the guys have just to push through...We didn't do any live scrimmaging today. I think they have to get used to moving around in their pads before you do, but we had some pretty live drills early on.”                                                  

                                                       - FAU coach Carl Pelini on the first day in full pads.

• Up Next: The Owls are off on Monday. The practice on Tuesday has officially been changed from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
   

Today’s workout

FAU is on the field for the fifth workout of the 2012 training camp on Sunday as the Owls hold their first practice in full pads.

Weather conditions

At 7:30 p.m. it was 86 degrees with 70 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion

Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess

Facebook: OwlAccess

E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess 

26

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 26:  WR Robert Lohnes

 Other FAU Players who have worn No. 26:

Coisge McCullough (2001)
David McDowell (2002)
Cory Small (2004-08)
Curtis Cross (Pictured, 2009-11)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Duron Carter joins FAU

Other links...

...Kedrick Rhodes gains weight, ready to keep carrying the load for FIU (Miami Herald)

...ULL blessed with deep receiving corps (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

...New coaches finding early success in SBC (Monroe News Star)

...MTSU backup QB battle heating up (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)

...Jags show good energy during early practice  (Mobile Press-Register)

...Troy QB Robinson focused on wins, not records (Dothan Eagle)

There was a fresh face practicing with FAU's receivers on Saturday.

After practice it was learned that who was the new player taking snaps with the Owls.

As first reported by Owl Access, it was Duron Carter, the former wideout at Ohio State and Alabama, who was highly recruited out of St. Thomas-Aquinas.

There was a buzz about the program this week with the arrival of Melvin German and it is still growing with Carter's appearance on Saturday - and neither player is guaranteed of seeing the field this season.

I have no idea how the Carl Pelini era will go at FAU, but with the help of recruiting coordinator Jeff Sims, it appears the Owls are going to bring in some high-profile players.

Whether they pan out or not, they are bringing attention to the program - and I have no problem with the traffic they bring to Owl Access, either.

I will say after the first few days of training camp, things are goingto be interesting at FAU - if you know where to look.

Hard Knocks at the Ox: Saturday's Training Camp report

• Making plays: RB Travis Jones took his first snap of training camp as a slot receiver and made a nice catch and run. Jones could be a good fit for that position.
• Stepping up: DE Martin Wright appears to be having a solid camp and is getting in position to make some hard hits although the Owls were still in a limited-contact phase of training camp.
• Newcomer watch: WR Duron Carter made the play of the day - maybe of the year - simply by suiting up and joining the team.
• Instant message: FAU coach Carl Pelini did not have a  press conference on Saturday after practice.
• Up Next: The Owls will hold its first full-pad practice at 6:30 p.m. On Sunday.

27

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 27:  RB Jonathan Wallace

Wallace was impressive early in the spring, which was capped by a three-touchdown performance in the spring game. Wallace is expected to be in the mix is running backs who will try and replace Alfred Morris.

 Other FAU Players who have worn No. 27:

Cameron Rodgers (2001-04)
Kris Bartels (2005-07)
Marcus Bartels (2009-2011)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Curtis takes snaps with starters

FAU Baseball: Former Owl Mickey Story makes MLB debut

Other links...

Starting quarterback position wide open for Owls (Sun-Sentinel)

No need to worry about Melvin German (Sun-Sentinel)

Three FIU signees in academic trouble (Miami Herald)

ULL cornerback Melvin White a leader for Ragin' Cajuns (Lafayette Daily Advertsier)

Sun Belt programs start new chapter (Monroe News-Star)

MTSU holds first practice (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)

South Alabama linebacker Bryson James happy to be back at practice (Mobile Press Register)

UNT Basketball already showing team chemistry (Denton Record Chronicle)
 

Today’s workout

FAU is on the field for the fourth workout of the 2012 training camp on Saturday and the Owls had a vist from FAU President Mary Jane Saunders, who talked briefly with Owls coach Carl Pelini before practice started.

Weather conditions

At 10:54 a.m. it was 84 degrees with 74 percent humidity at the Boca Raton Airport.

Live updates from practice field

FAU Athletics (@FAUOwlAthletics)

Up Next

The Owls return to the practice field at 6:30 p.m. Sunday for the first workout in full pads.

Send us your questions and we’ll get to them during today's practice...

Pipeline: Official Training Camp Discussion

Twitter: @FAUOwlAccess

Facebook: OwlAccess

E-mail: Info@FAUOwlAccess.com

Follow the action on our Twitter ticker or @FAUOwlAccess 

Another Owl is in the big leagues.

Former FAU pitcher Mickey Storey was called up by the Astros on Friday from Triple A Oklahoma City.

Storey made his debut in the seventh inning of the Astros game at Atlanta.

Storey,who pitched for FAU from 2005-08, will pitch out of the Houston bullpen.

The promotion of Storey comes less than two weeks after former FAU pitcher Jeff Beliveau made his major league debut for the Cubs.

Storey is the seventh FAU player to make it to the majors following:
 

• P Tim Harikkala: Mariners (1995-96), Red Sox (1999), Rockies (2004, 2007) A's (2005)
• P Carmen Cali: Cardinals (2004-05), Twins (2007)
• P Tommy Murphy: Angels (2006-07)
• OF Jeff Fiorentio: Orioles (2005-06, 2009), A's (2008)
• P Mike Crotta: Pirates (2011)
• Jeff Beliveau: Cubs (2012)

28

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 28:  WR Jeremy Glinton

Glinton is a true freshman who had 12 receiving touchdowns for Northeast High School last season.

 Other FAU Players who have worn No. 28:

Daveon Barron (2002)
Mike Brown (2005)
Rod Huggins (2006)
Willie Floyd (Pictured, 2007-10)
David Haugabrook (2009)
Antonio Washington (2011)

Owl Access Links

FAU Football: Owls pick up the pace

FAU Football: FAU faces two teams in preseason top 25

Other links...

Pelini stresses speed in practice (Sun-Sentinel)

Former FAU baseball player Dickie Hart takes job as FAU assistant  (Tampa Bay Times)

FIU football receives three votes in coaches’ poll, UM none (Miami Herald)

ULL still has questions (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

South Alabama holds 1st practice of season. (Mobile Press Register)

Troy's defense has new look (Dothan Eagle)
 

The first major poll of the season came out on Thursday and while FAU didn't quite make the USA Today Top 25 Coaches' Poll, there are a few interesting items.

FAU faces two teams ranked in the Top 25 this season, in back-to-back weeks no less. Alabama is No. 2 and Georgia is No. 6. The Owls play Georgia on Sept. 15 and Alabama on Sept. 22

By the way, the highest ranked team FAU has ever faced is USF, which was No. 6 when the Owls faced the Bulls in 2007 at Lockhart Stadium, losing 35-23.

Perhaps it should be noted that the poll used by nearly every respectable media outlet is the AP poll, which comes out later.

I find it more interesting to look at the bottom of the poll to see that FIU picked up three votes – which would place the Panthers in a tie at No. 43.

Voting in the coaches' poll this season from the Sun Belt Conference are Arkansas State's Gus Malzhan, MTSU's Rick Stockstill. Louisiana-Lafayette's Mark Hudspeth and North Texas' Dan McCarney.

29

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

FAU’s current No.29: DB Jeremy Gaskins

Gaskins was recruited out of Delray Beach-American Heritage where he was primarily a running back and was the first player to commit to new coach Carl Pelini. Gaskins is expected to move to defensive back this season.

Other FAU Players who have worn No. 29:

Jerell Terry (2002-04)

Gedel Merzius (2006)

Demetrius Williamson (2008-09)

Cortez Ash (2010-11)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: Owls hold first practice of 2012 training camp

FAU Football: German has ups and downs on first day of practice

FAU Football: Two more FAU games on TV this season

Other links...

Pelini sizes up Owls on first day of preseason practice (Sun-Sentinel)

Florida Atlantic energized in first practice under new coach Carl Pelini (Palm Beach Post)

Three ULM freshman will wait until next year (Monroe News Star)

ULL ready for 2012 season (Lafayette Daily Advertiser)

MTSU's Stockstill tries to bring Blue raiders back (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)

MTSU lineman Alex Stuart, a 2-year starter, will not return (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)

South Alabama opens camp Thursday (Mobile Press Register)

 

By now most of you know that JUCO transfer quarterback Melvin German took the practice field on Wednesday as a member of the Florida Atlantic Owls.

That shouldn't have been too much of a shock since my man Chuck King has been saying for a while that German would indeed make it to Boca Raton.

No doubt that more fans are surprised that German hadn't been named the starter or that had he had not won the Nobel Peace prize by the end of the first practice.

German had some good plays and had some bad plays in his first practice and, while he certainly is one of the most talented players to bring his services to FAU, he is human and is going to face a stiff learning curve.

“Our implementation schedule is such that he should keep up with our install,” said FAU coach Carl Pelini. "He handled the install today OK, but his head will start to swim about Day 5 or 6 as we start getting more and more in. He'll get frustrated – I've seen it over and over again and then it will ease up for him. Every new QB goes through those stages. Hopefully, after Day 10, 11 12 he'll start to be more comfortable with the offense."

FAU offensive coordinator Brian Wright, who may have to devise a gameplan for German sooner rather than later, also was seeing German live and in person for the first time.

“He's trying to learn the whole offense in a short amount of time and that's very difficult for him to do that," Wright said. "He had to sit back and evaluate and then we'd thrown him in to get a few live reps and get him some live action. He did OK, but it's too early to tell.”

German's maturation and learning of the offense will be the top story to watch in camp, but FAU's receivers think he will learn quickly.

“It's early so you expect him to be shaky, but he'll be ready to compete,” said Owls wide receiver William Dukes. “I've got my timing down with the other quarterbacks, but I'm pretty sure after a while I'll get it down with him too."

The Sun Belt Conference announced its TV schedule for Sun Belt Network games on Wednesday which includes two FAU games this season.

On Oct. 14, FAU's game at ULM will be televised by the Sun Belt Network (avaialble on CSS locally) and will kickoff at 8 p.m.

Also, on Nov. 10 the Owls' game at Western Kentucky will be on the Sun Belt Network with kickoff moved to 1 p.m.

Here is the FAU TV schedule so far with the possibility of Alabama on Sept. 22 to be added later:

• Sept. 15 at Georgia, CSS, 7:30 p.m.
• Oct. 13 at ULM, Sun Belt Network, 8 p.m.
• Nov. 3 at Navy, CBS Sports Network, 3:30 p.m.
• Nov. 10 at Western Kentucky, Sun Belt Network, 1 p.m.
• Nov. 16 vs. FIU, ESPNU, 7 p.m.

And here is the entire Sun Belt Network TV schedule.

Sun Belt Network Football Schedule

September 29

Troy at South Alabama - 3:30 p.m.

 October 6

Louisiana-Monroe at Middle Tennessee - 3:30 p.m.

October 13

Florida Atlantic at Louisiana-Monroe - 8 p.m.

October 20

FIU at Troy - 1 p.m.

November 3

Louisiana-Lafayette at Louisiana-Monroe -4 p.m.

November 10

Florida Atlantic at Western Kentucky - 12 p.m.

November 24

North Texas at Western Kentucky - 1 p.m.

30

Days until FAU vs. Wagner on Aug. 31

 FAU’s current No. 30: RB Martese Jackson

One of many candidates who will be trying to fill the shoes of departed RB Alfred Morris, Jackson rushed for 1,100 yards for Fort Scott CC where he was recruited by FAU receivers coach Jeff Sims.

FAU players who have worn No. 30

Andy Rosas (2001)
Cedric White (2003)
Kris Bartels (2004)
Keegan Peterson (2006)
Avionne Rolle (2007)
Ross Gornall (2008)
Michael Barasch (2009-10)
Avionne Rolle (Pictured, 2011)
Frank Thompson (2011)

Owl Access Link Center

FAU Football: 2012 FAU Running Backs Preview
FAU Football: 2012 FAU Quarterbacks Preview
FAU Football: German cleared to practice, but three others still waiting

Other links

Blue Raiders don't mind underdog role (Murfreesboro Daily News Journal)