FAU Spring Preview

Florida Atlantic enters the spring season coming off of a disappointing 5-7 record which has led to some changes that could have the Owls pointing in the right direction.

Gone is the most productive quarterback FAU has ever had in QB Rusty Smith, along with TE's Jason Harmon and Jamari Grant and FB Willie Rose. However the most interesting loss is the one of defensive coordinator Kirk Hoza.

Last season FAU's defense led by Hoza finished 7th in the Sun Belt giving up 453 yards per game. Along with that they gave up a school record 651 yards at Troy. A defensive scheme that wasn't putting pressure on quarterbacks, only 12 sacks and 5 interceptions, led Hoza to be the first coach Howard Schnellenberger has had to fire in over 40-years of coaching.

Linebackers coach Kurt Van Valkenburgh was named the new defensive coordinator and an expected shift in schemes is in the making. FAU also added defensive back coach Dick Hopkins who comes to FAU with over 30-years of coaching experience.

Listed below is a spring outlook for FAU.

Star Watch:
RB Alfred Morris- Last spring Morris was buried deep on the depth chart listed as a back-up fullback. 1-year later Morris returns as the Sun Belt leading rusher after gaining over 1,300 yards while being the workhorse of the offense. Morris, a redshirt junior could contend for almost 1,500 yards next season.

Strength:
Playmaking Ability- With the loss of the most productive quarterback in school history the next step usually would be a regression in offensive production, however FAU has the chance to strengthen its offense. Offensive Coordinator Darryl Jackson returns play makers in Morris, WR Lestar Jean, QB Jeff Van Camp, and TE Darian Williams, all of which saw extensive action last season accounting for 34 combined TDs.

Weakness:
Forcing Turnovers- Last season FAU had a turnover margin of +1. While plus one is in the positive, the defensive unit didn't generate enough "big play" turnovers down the stretch. Only 5 interceptions (1 returned for a TD) should not be good enough in a conference that is dominated by the spread offense. The key to creating these turnovers will need to come from the defensive line and creating pressure which is one of the elements Van Valkenburgh will be addressing.

Make or Break Player:
QB Jeff Van Camp- Jeff Van Camp took over last season for the injured Smith and lead the Owls to a 3-2 record as a starter. Experince isn't lacking for the redshirt senior who has played in games at hostile environments such as South Carolina, Florida, Texas, Oklahoma State, Nebraska and Minnesota. Van Camp will need to be able to manage games and understand that he doesn't have to win games, much like he did at the end of the season for the Owls. If he can limit turnovers and sacks while making the occasional big throw, the offense should be fine.

Players on the Spot to Watch:
1. Tavious Polo CB- Polo a senior started off his career by receiving all-freshman honors from multiple publications after picking off 7 passes and forcing a fumble. Since then Polo has recorded a total of 2 interceptions the past two seasons. Bringing speed and athletic ability, Polo has what it takes to become a "shut down" corner. Its now or never for the senior who could become a NFL prospect if he has a productive season.

2. Amos Wood WR- Woods a former 3-star prospect is a redshirt sophomore coming into spring ball and now is his time to make a statement. Last spring camp, many believed Wood was ready to play but was buried behind other productive players. Now Wood has a chance to find some time with only one starting wide receiver slot filled to WR Lestar Jean. Watch for Wood to provide some flash in the passing game and gain some playing time over the spring.

3. Jamere Johnson DT- Johnson a junior has seen some time on the defensive line the past two seasons and has recorded some production. Van Vulkenburgh is in need of a force up the middle to create pressure in the backfield and Johnson could be the man.

Season Outlook:
Right now i have the Owls at 6-6 missing out on a bowl, with Middle Tennessee State and Troy clamming the bowl spots again.

- A. Ivins

-Note: After taking a break from writing, some very inspirational things have been said to me by some admired figures so look for a LOT more content on this blog. Thanks