Florida Atlantic Pulls Away From ULM 45-17 Behind Big Second Quarter

Owls Score 28 Second Quarter Points to Complete 7-0 Day for Florida’s FBS Teams

Florida Atlantic turned a close game into a runaway victory Saturday, scoring 28 points in the second quarter on its way to a 45-17 win over Louisiana-Monroe. Quarterback Caden Veltkamp threw for 313 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Ethan Ervin rushed for 139 yards and a touchdown as the Owls improved to 3-1 on the season.

The victory also completed a perfect 7-0 day for the seven FBS programs in the state of Florida. According to the game information, it was only the second time all seven Florida FBS teams won on the same day, with the previous occurrence coming Oct. 5, 2013.

Owls Turn 7-7 Tie Into 35-17 Halftime Lead

Florida Atlantic and Louisiana-Monroe were tied 7-7 before the Owls took control with a dominant second quarter. Veltkamp connected with Dominique Henry for a 26-yard touchdown early in the quarter to put FAU ahead. Easton Messer then provided another big play, returning a punt 73 yards for a touchdown to extend the Owls’ advantage.

ULM answered just 10 seconds later when Aidan Armenta hit LT Robinson for a 75-yard touchdown pass, but FAU continued to pour on the points. Ervin scored on a 2-yard touchdown run, and Leonard Farrow added a 1-yard touchdown with five seconds remaining in the half. The scoring burst gave FAU a 35-17 advantage at halftime.

Veltkamp, Henry Lead FAU Offense

Veltkamp continued his strong afternoon after halftime, finding Henry for a 36-yard touchdown in the third quarter. Henry finished with nine receptions for 121 yards and two touchdowns, giving the Owls a consistent target throughout the game.

Veltkamp’s 313 passing yards helped FAU pile up 577 yards of total offense. The Owls were also effective on the ground, rushing for 245 yards. Ervin led the rushing attack with 139 yards and a touchdown, helping FAU maintain control throughout the second half.

ULM Unable to Keep Pace

Louisiana-Monroe’s offense produced some explosive plays but could not keep pace with Florida Atlantic after the second-quarter surge. Armenta finished with 278 passing yards and two touchdowns, including the 75-yard scoring strike to Robinson that briefly gave the Warhawks momentum.

FAU’s defense and running game helped the Owls maintain their large halftime advantage, while the offense continued to move the ball efficiently in the second half. The 45-17 victory gave Florida Atlantic its third win of the season and capped a memorable Saturday for college football in the state, with all seven of Florida’s FBS programs finishing the day with victories.