Owls want revenge
After last year’s blowout loss to UAB, FAU players want another shot at the Blazers and will get one on Thursday in the first game of the 2010 season.
Originally published on
9/1/2010
by
Marcus Nelson
BOCA RATON – Florida Atlantic’s coaching staff hasn’t used revenge to motivate the Owls as they prepare for Thursday’s season opener at UAB.
Maybe that’s because they don’t have to. Even without the coaches bring up last year’s 56-29 loss to the Blazers, FAU players still remember the game well.
“It’s huge motivation for me,” said safety Marcus Bartels. “I know the coaches told us to forget about last season and that we have a new season coming up. That’s all true, but I can’t forget about that game. That wasn’t the FAU 'D' I know. The FAU ‘D’ I know dates back to when my brother was here and guys were flying around and helmets were flying off.”
When linebacker Michael Lockley was asked which game he was looking forward to most this season, he didn’t bring up the game at Texas or a season-ending game at home against Sun Belt contender Troy.
The game Lockley has circled is Thursday’s game vs. Blazers since the Owls defense gave up an embarrassing 622 yards of total offense to UAB, which scored on its first eight possessions.
“I’m definitely looking forward to playing at UAB, Lockley said. “You don’t get many second chances in your lifetime. To be able to go up there and play them in their place again is just great.”
Schnellenberger can’t do anything about last year’s game, but he doesn’t mind if the players want to atone for their performance last season.
“I don’t like the word ‘redemption’ because it has too many negative connotations to it,” Schnellenberger said. “We just have to be the best prepared we can and go up there with fevarent desire to win. The desire is usually there.”
FAU vs. UAB Breakdown
Key for FAU: In Jeff Van Camp’s first start of his career, the Owls were able to put up 29 points vs. the Blazers. If they can do that again, FAU wins the game. But that won’t be easy with every player on offensive line making his first career start
Key for UAB: The Blazers will have some inexperience to overcome as well. Sophomore David Isabelle will be making his first career start and could be prone to making mistakes. If he does struggle, how will he handle it?
Key matchup: FAU linebacker Malik Eugene vs. FAU tight end Jeffrey Anderson
The Blazers love to go to Anderson, one of the top tight ends in Conference USA, but if Eugene can keep Anderson from getting open, UAB will lose one of its most potent offensive weapons.
Key stat: FAU quarterback Jeff Van Camp threw two interceptions in last year’s game vs. UAB, but didn’t throw one the rest of the season,