In a resounding close to a challenging season, Florida Atlantic University (FAU) claimed its first American Athletic Conference win in a dominant 63-16 victory over Tulsa on Saturday. Quarterback Tyriq Starks led the charge with a career-best performance, throwing for five touchdowns and igniting an offensive explosion for the Owls.
Starks, a junior, was near-perfect on the day, completing 18 of 25 passes for 294 yards — all career highs. His five touchdown passes were the centerpiece of an offensive masterclass. He opened the scoring with a 28-yard strike to Kahlil Brantley in the first quarter, but it was a second-quarter barrage that truly buried the Golden Hurricane.
Among his highlights was a 78-yard touchdown connection with CJ Campbell Jr., who had a monster game with four receptions for 118 yards and 100 rushing yards on 15 carries. Starks also found Jabari Smith Jr. on a 76-yard bomb, adding to FAU’s explosive plays.
FAU’s defense played a pivotal role in setting the tone early. Daedae Hill intercepted Tulsa quarterback Cooper Legas and returned it 16 yards for a touchdown, sparking a 35-point second quarter. That sequence was a defining moment, as the Owls raced to a 42-9 halftime lead.
Florida Atlantic’s rushing attack was equally unstoppable. Xavier Terrell showcased his speed with a 93-yard touchdown run, while Gemari Sands added a 22-yard touchdown rush, helping the Owls pile up 258 rushing yards.
Tulsa (3-9, 1-7 AAC) found themselves outmatched early. Starting quarterback Cooper Legas managed just 63 passing yards on 9-for-19 attempts before being replaced by Kirk Francis, who fared better with 226 yards and two touchdown passes. However, the Golden Hurricane’s turnovers and inability to stop FAU’s big plays sealed their fate.
The Owls (3-9, 1-7 AAC) may have endured a tough season, but Saturday’s emphatic win offers a glimpse of potential heading into the offseason. With Starks hitting his stride and playmakers like Campbell and Terrell stepping up, FAU has pieces to build on for next year.
For Tulsa, the loss caps a disappointing campaign, leaving the Golden Hurricane to regroup and retool for 2025.
FAU closed its season on a high note, providing fans a reason to be optimistic for what lies ahead.
Key Stats
•Tyriq Starks (FAU): 18/25, 294 yards, 5 TDs
•CJ Campbell Jr. (FAU): 118 receiving yards, 100 rushing yards, 1 TD
•Daedae Hill (FAU): 1 INT, 16-yard pick-6
•Xavier Terrell (FAU): 93-yard rushing TD
•Kirk Francis (Tulsa): 19/33, 226 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
