GAME CAPSULE: FAU vs Charlotte - August 27, 2022

Owls Kick-Off 2022 Season Against 49ers

The Matchup: Charlotte (0-0, 0-0 C-USA) @ Florida Atlantic (0-0, 0-0 C-USA)

When: Saturday, August 27th, 7:00 PM

Where: Howard Schnellenberger Field at FAU Stadium

TV: CBSSN

Stream: CBSSN

Radio: Radio: FoxSports 640

Latest Line: FAU - 7.5

Weather: Current conditions in Boca Raton, FL

The Series: The Owls enjoy a 5-2 advantage over the 49ers, winning last season's road tilt 38-9

UNCC Team Site: Here

Key Stats Comparison:

2021 Final Stats

Owl Notes

FAU returns to action in early fashion for Week Zero and with an immediate league contest that is important for a number of reasons.

With a new offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator, they will need to gain traction quickly on both sides of the ball while securing a digit in the win column that could prove very important later on in C-USA standings.

Of note, the Owls are afforded a significant number of options in the passing game compared to the last two seasons, and provided a solid start by returning signal caller and offensive team captain N'Kosi Perry, they should be able to cash in on the efficient skill play calling of coordinator Brent Dearmon who has had some time to instill his system after going through both Spring and Fall ball cycles with the team.

One might expect to see a platoon approach at wide receiver over time given the depth at the position, something with Dearmon confirmed when asked about the premise during fall camp.

The Florida Atlantic running game is also seeing a slight shift with many players in the mix for time. However, their predominant approach will likely revolve around a stable back with plays infusing Johnny Ford's electric style, and others in select and situational opportunities. Ford was not mentioned when inquiries were made during camp interviews about a consistent carry option, but that does not mean he won't present himself as a focal point at times.

Whoever has the ball should have an easier time finding holes with Rutger's transfer Brendan Bordner taking over at left tackle for a unit which returns a significant amount of experience overall. MTSU transfer Dorian Hinton is a player familiar with Dearmon's system, and is likely to earn a starting role at guard alongside Bordner.

Defensively, Florida Atlantic will look to cash in on Todd Orlando's aggressive scheme that looks to pressure opposing quarterbacks. They are hopeful to see significant improvements in both sacks and hurries - both of which were lacking last season.

The continued presence of C-USA watchlist team member Evan Anderson in the middle alongside South Carolina newcomer Keem Green gives the team an opportunity to close the gaps better at the first level. Upgrades in transfer LB signees Morven Joseph, Jamie Pettway, and Xavier Peters in the linebacking and hybrid core should help to shore up the 2nd level as well.

The secondary welcomes back safety and defensive team captain Teja Young in a significant role from a leadership and playmaking standpoint. In addition, junior Romain Mungin will return to provide a staple presence alongside newcomers Daemon Hill (Central Michigan) and Michal Antione (Iowa Sate).

49er Notes

Little is known about the 49ers defensive approach to be seen, as they also welcome a new defensive coordinator in Greg Brown and one who has not called a game in 10 years (Colorado, 2012).

Coach Dearmon eluded to this notion during camp interviews when discussing the strategy the Owls will employ to prep for for the 49ers. But some things regarding on field numbers are understood.

Defensively, UNCC will be looking to improve upon last year's final numbers that saw them allow 34 points per outing (11th C-USA) while registering only 16 sacks - the same amount the Owls mustered. They also rounded out the bottom of the league in defensive pass efficiency with a rating of 168.2.

To do so, they will need to replace a good deal of their tackling production having lost three of the top four performers from last season, save sack leader Markees Watts who returns after posting six quarterback baggers to go with 61 total tackles in 2021.

Offensively the 49er show will continue to be led by 5th year senior quarterback Chris Reynolds. He's a 62% career passer overall, but also tossed nine interceptions last season alone while netting just 14 all-time.

Reynolds will enjoy some familiar faces in his quest with senior wide receivers Grant DuBose and Victor Tucker both back and sporting averages over 14 yards per catch in a 49er uniform.