The Florida Atlantic Owls enter the 2024 season with the goal of building on a challenging 2023 campaign under the guidance of head coach Tom Herman. Known for his success in bowl games with a 5-1 record, Herman’s first season in Boca Raton ended with a disappointing 4-8 record. This year, the Owls are facing another rebuilding phase, with a focus on integrating new talent from the transfer portal while addressing significant concerns on both sides of the ball.
Florida Atlantic was active in the transfer portal, bringing in a slew of new players. However, the influx of talent hasn’t translated into a roster filled with guaranteed high-end producers. The offensive line, a crucial area of concern, features a mix of new faces, including standout center Frederico Maranges, one of the best in the American Athletic Conference (AAC). The other four starters are new, which could lead to early struggles as the unit works to gel during fall camp.
The running back room also underwent a transformation, with CJ Campbell, a transfer from Florida State, expected to take on a significant role. Zuberi Mobley, the leading returning rusher, managed just 62 yards last season, so the ground game will need to be more consistent if the Owls hope to improve on their 2023 record. Last season, FAU was 3-0 when rushing for over 200 yards, but they failed to capitalize on strong performances in games against Rice and UAB due to an inconsistent commitment to the run.
At quarterback, Marshall transfer Cam Fancher brings experience and mobility, offering a potential boost to an offense that struggled with consistency. The receiving corps is largely untested, with BJ Alexander leading returning targets with just ten receptions. Transfers Marlyn Johnson (Buffalo) and Milan Tucker (Appalachian State) are expected to contribute immediately, while tight end Zeke Moore could see an increased role.
On the defensive side, the Owls were solid in 2023, especially when keeping opponents under 17 points. However, the defense couldn’t carry the team to victory in games where the offense sputtered. The pass rush was effective, and the run defense held its own, but the unit will need to step up even more this season given the uncertainties on offense.
The secondary is a work in progress, bolstered by transfers Phillip Dunnam (Indiana) at safety and Kahzir Brown (Maine) at cornerback. While the defensive backfield is green, the new additions bring experience and should help stabilize this unit. Up front, the departure of 355-pound tackle Evan Anderson leaves a significant hole, but Purdue transfer Prince Boyd is expected to make an immediate impact.
The linebacking corps is perhaps the most stable unit on the team. Jackson Ambush, who led the team with 89 tackles last season, is a reliable presence, while former Auburn Tiger Desmond Tisdol adds size and experience in the middle.
The American Athletic Conference (AAC) isn’t as formidable as it once was, which plays in Florida Atlantic’s favor. The Owls’ schedule is manageable, but the team will need to find its rhythm quickly. The final stretch of the season includes three road games in the last four weeks, with a critical mid-October matchup at UTSA that could determine the Owls’ postseason fate.
Despite facing eight teams that didn’t make a bowl last season, this year promises to be a grind. The key to success will be establishing a consistent offensive identity, particularly in the run game, and shoring up an offensive line and secondary that remain major question marks. The defense will need to continue its solid play, particularly in getting after the quarterback and protecting a young secondary.
Living and playing in Boca Raton offers its perks, but the Owls will need more than just a beautiful setting to navigate a challenging season. With the right pieces falling into place, Florida Atlantic has the potential to improve on last year’s record, but it will require patience, development, and a little bit of luck.
