GAME CAPSULE: FAU vs FIU - Shula Bowl XX
The Matchup: Florida International (1-3) @ Florida Atlantic (2-2)
When: Saturday, October 2nd, 3:30 PM
Where: Howard Schnellenberger Field at FAU Stadium
TV: Stadium
Stream: Here
Radio: 640 The Hurricane
Opening Line: FAU -10
Weather: Current conditions in Boca Raton, FL
The Series: FAU currently holds a 14-4 series advantage in the Shula Bowl. A student who graduated FAU last year never saw an Owls loss in the Shula Bowl, as Florida Atlantic is currently on a four-year win streak in the rivalry game.
FIU Team Site: Here
Key Stats Comparison:
Owl Notes
After falling 31-7 to the Air Force Falcons, Florida Atlantic is looking to bounce back with a win in the Shula Bowl. They gave up 446 yards on the ground against the Falcons. With 164 of those yards coming from quarterback Haaziq Daniels, it's good news for FAU that Panthers quarterback Max Bortenschlager isn't known to be a mobile quarterback, as he only gained 16 yards in rushing all season. 71 yards lost from sacks put him at -55 yards of rushing this season.
Last Shula Bowl, quarterback Javion Posey made school history by setting the school record for rushing yards by a quarterback with 182 yards on 18 carries, adding a rushing touchdown. While new starting quarterback N'Kosi Perry is more known for throwing the ball than running it, he showed flashes of being able to break out for some big plays on the ground with a 34-yard rush in the second quarter, finishing the game with 55 yards on seven carries. Knowing that FIU struggled with stopping the quarterback run last year, Perry could have another big game on the ground.
Defensively, the Owls' safety duo of Teja Young and Jordan Helm are a tandem that can halt the Panthers' passing attack. Helm especially looked good last week with 15 tackles, while Young made waves in FAU's previous game against Fordham with a pick-six. The two of them have been one of the most dangerous safety tandems in the country all season, being key players in mitigating big plays and deflecting passes.
Panther Notes
FIU stumbled out of non-conference play, going on a three-game losing streak after starting their season with a 48-10 win over Long Island University. Last week, they held a 27-10 lead going into the fourth quarter against Central Michigan before allowing 21 unanswered points to give Central Michigan the win. They gave up 599 total yards in the game, including 397 through the air as CMU quarterback Daniel Richardson's three touchdown passes in the fourth quarter gave the Chippewas the win.
The Panthers' defense has given up the 28th most passing yards per game in the country (255.7), so N'Kosi Perry and FAU's usually high-powered passing offense can take advantage of their weak defense in the Shula Bowl. Prior to their loss to Air Force, the Owls ranked 22nd in passing yards per game with 298.
Offensively, FIU is headlined by quarterback Max Bortenschlager, who has 710 passing yards, six touchdowns, and two interceptions on the season on 55.1% passing. Running back D'Vonte Price headlines the rushing game with 327 yards and four touchdowns on 43 carries. His 7.6 yards per carry ties him for the most in CUSA.
#FAU Head Coach @CoachTaggart on the discussion after Saturday's loss.
— FAU Owl's Nest (@FAU_Owls_Nest) September 27, 2021
"We talked about correcting those missed assignments, you gotta know exactly what you're doing." pic.twitter.com/nGo1UYpCMt
#FAU Head Coach @CoachTaggart on the Shula Bowl.
— FAU Owl's Nest (@FAU_Owls_Nest) September 27, 2021
"Everyone who's associated with our program knows how important this game is, so there's a sense of urgency." pic.twitter.com/jBlNcRGGZx
Today's presser ends with one simple message for #FAU fans:
— FAU Owl's Nest (@FAU_Owls_Nest) September 27, 2021
🔴 WEAR RED THIS SATURDAY! 🔴#RivalryRed #GoOwls #BeatFIU pic.twitter.com/NGyHzJUYEM
TheREALowlsley said
I am getting married this Saturday in Boca (both FAU alum) we may still attend this game lol.Posted On: Sep 27th 2021, 3:58 PM #403688
Legendary
TheREALowlsley said
I am getting married this Saturday in Boca (both FAU alum) we may still attend this game lol.Posted On: Sep 27th 2021, 3:58 PM #403688
everybody should wear red at the wedding lol
Congratulations
TheREALowlsley said
I am getting married this Saturday in Boca (both FAU alum) we may still attend this game lol.Posted On: Sep 27th 2021, 3:58 PM #403688
THAT WOULD BE EPIC
TheREALowlsley said
I am getting married this Saturday in Boca (both FAU alum) we may still attend this game lol.Posted On: Sep 27th 2021, 3:58 PM #403688
Congrats. Wish you both the best of luck and happiness.
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