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45 Facts About Florida Atlantic Owls Football

Pier Marsh

Written by Pier Marsh

Published: 01 Oct 2024

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Source: Upressonline.com

Florida Atlantic Owls Football has a compelling story that began in 2001. Since then, the Owls have soared to impressive heights, making their mark in college football. With a home at FAU Stadium, which seats 29,419 fans, the Owls have experienced thrilling victories and challenging seasons. Under the guidance of head coach Tom Herman, the team continues to strive for excellence. Notable players like Trey Hendrickson and Alfred Morris have emerged from this program, showcasing the talent nurtured at FAU. From their first win against Bethune–Cookman to their recent performances in the American Athletic Conference, the Owls' journey is one of determination and growth.

Key Takeaways:

  • Florida Atlantic Owls football began in 2001, with notable coaches and achievements. The team's future looks promising with a dedicated fan base and strong coaching staff.
  • The Owls play at FAU Stadium, have won conference titles, and produced NFL talent. Their future is bright, with potential for continued growth and success.
Table of Contents
01The Beginning of Florida Atlantic Owls Football
02Leadership and Coaching
03Home Turf and Facilities
04Conference and Rivalries
05Memorable Games and Achievements
06Player Highlights and NFL Success
07Academic and Philanthropic Support
08Team Performance and Statistics
09Game Highlights and Opponent Analysis
10Future Prospects
11The Future Looks Bright for FAU Owls Football

The Beginning of Florida Atlantic Owls Football

The Florida Atlantic Owls football program has a fascinating history that began in the early 2000s. Let's dive into some key moments and milestones that have shaped the team.

  1. Program Establishment: The Florida Atlantic Owls football program was established in 2001, marking the start of a new chapter for the university.

  2. First Season: The inaugural season saw the Owls finish with a record of 4-6, laying the groundwork for future success.

Leadership and Coaching

Coaching plays a crucial role in the development and success of any football team. The Owls have had several notable coaches who have left their mark on the program.

  1. Head Coach: As of the 2023 season, Tom Herman is the head coach, leading the team in his second season.

  2. Notable Coaches: The Owls have had eight head coaches, including prominent names like Willie Taggart, Lane Kiffin, and Howard Schnellenberger.

  3. Willie Taggart Era: Willie Taggart was hired on December 11, 2019, and led the team to a 5-4 record in a COVID-19 shortened season. He was fired on November 26, 2022, with a 15-18 record.

  4. Interim Coach: Defensive coordinator Todd Orlando served as interim head coach during the transition period to find a new head coach.

Home Turf and Facilities

A team's home stadium and facilities are vital for both player performance and fan experience. FAU Stadium is a key part of the Owls' identity.

  1. Stadium: The Owls play their home games at FAU Stadium, which has a seating capacity of 29,419. Built in 2011, it features a natural turf field.

  2. Marching Band: The Florida Atlantic Marching Owls perform at home games and other university events, adding to the game-day atmosphere.

  3. Fight Song: The FAU Fight Song is an integral part of the team’s tradition and spirit.

Conference and Rivalries

Conference affiliations and rivalries add excitement and competition to the football season. The Owls have experienced several changes in this area.

  1. Conference Affiliation: The Owls compete in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), having previously been part of Conference USA (CUSA) from 2013 to 2022.

  2. Division Championships: The Owls have won two division titles, one in 2017 and another in 2019, while competing in the East Division of CUSA.

  3. Rivalries: The Owls have a notable rivalry with Florida International University (FIU), with whom they have a long-standing rivalry in both football and other sports.

Memorable Games and Achievements

Throughout their history, the Owls have had several memorable games and significant achievements that have defined their journey.

  1. First Win: The Owls’ first win came in their second game of the inaugural season against Bethune–Cookman, with a score of 31-28.

  2. First Meeting with FIU: The Owls won their first meeting with newly created South Florida rival, Florida International University, with a score of 31-21.

  3. Big Ten Victory: On September 15, 2007, the Owls defeated their first Big Ten opponent, Minnesota, with a score of 42-39.

  4. Sun Belt Conference Champions: In the 2007 season, the Owls became Sun Belt Conference champions and received an invitation to the 2007 New Orleans Bowl, their first-ever bowl bid.

  5. Youngest Program to a Bowl Game: The Owls set an NCAA mark by becoming the second-youngest program ever to receive an invitation to a bowl game, surpassing only the undefeated 1958 Air Force Falcons.

  6. Boca Raton Bowl: On August 11, 2011, Howard Schnellenberger’s first year defensive coordinator, Glenn Spencer, was named the interim head coach to lead the Owls at the Boca Raton Bowl.

Player Highlights and NFL Success

Many FAU players have gone on to achieve success in the NFL, showcasing the talent developed within the program.

  1. Notable Players: Among the many FAU players to make it to the NFL are Trey Hendrickson, Alfred Morris, and Harrison Bryant.

  2. Consensus All-Americans: The Owls have produced one consensus All-American player in their history.

Academic and Philanthropic Support

FAU's commitment to academics and philanthropy has played a significant role in the overall success of the football program.

  1. Academic Opportunities: Florida Atlantic University offers over 180 different bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs across ten colleges.

  2. Philanthropic Support: The university has received significant philanthropic support, including a $7.5 million gift from Eleanor R. Baldwin, which led to the naming of the Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena for basketball and volleyball.

Team Performance and Statistics

Analyzing team performance and statistics provides insight into the Owls' strengths and areas for improvement.

  1. All-Time Record: The Owls have an all-time record of 122-156 (.439), with a bowl record of 4-1 (.800).

  2. Conference Titles: The team has won three conference titles: in 2007, 2017, and 2019.

  3. Division Titles: The Owls have won two division titles: in 2017 and 2019.

  4. Recent Performance: In the 2023 season, the Owls finished with a record of 4-8, 3-5 in the AAC.

  5. 2024 Season Statistics: As of the 2024 season, the Owls have a cumulative statistics record showing 4 wins and 5 losses, with notable statistics including 55 total points scored and 60 points allowed.

  6. Scoring Average: The team’s scoring average per game is 18.33 points, with opponents averaging 20 points per game.

  7. Rushing Yards: The Owls have gained a total of 491 rushing yards, with opponents gaining 707 yards.

  8. Passing Yards: The team has passed for a total of 433 yards, with opponents passing for 671 yards.

  9. Penalties: The Owls have committed a total of 57 penalties, with opponents committing 58 penalties.

  10. Time of Possession: The team has controlled the ball for an average of 29:33 minutes per game, with opponents controlling the ball for an average of 30:20 minutes per game.

  11. Third Down Conversions: The Owls have converted 9 out of 41 third down attempts, with opponents converting 10 out of 33 third down attempts.

  12. Fourth Down Conversions: The team has converted 7 out of 12 fourth down attempts, with opponents converting 3 out of 5 fourth down attempts.

  13. Fumbles Lost: The Owls have lost a total of 3 fumbles, with opponents losing 6 fumbles.

  14. Sacks-Yards Lost: The team has allowed a total of 2 sacks for 9 yards, with opponents allowing 8 sacks for 30 yards.

  15. PAT Attempts: The Owls have attempted a total of 7 PATs, with all attempts being successful.

Game Highlights and Opponent Analysis

Examining specific games and opponent performances provides a deeper understanding of the Owls' competitive landscape.

  1. Game by Game Statistics: The team’s game-by-game statistics show a mix of strong performances and challenges, with notable games including a loss to Michigan State and a win over FIU.

  2. Opponent Statistics: The Owls’ opponents have shown strong performances as well, with notable games including a win over Army West Point and a loss to Michigan State.

  3. Team Offense: The Owls’ offense has shown promise, with notable performances including a game against Michigan State where they gained 180 rushing yards and 262 receiving yards.

  4. Team Defense: The team’s defense has faced challenges, but has also shown resilience, particularly in games against FIU where they allowed 52 rushing yards and 25 receiving yards.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the future of the Florida Atlantic Owls football program appears bright, with a strong foundation and dedicated fan base.

  1. Colors and Mascot: The team’s colors are blue and red, and their mascots are Owlsley the Owl and Hoot the Owl.

  2. Athletic Director: The athletic director of Florida Atlantic University is Brian White, who oversees all athletic programs, including football.

  3. Recent Performance: The Owls have shown resilience and potential, with a dedicated coaching staff and talented players.

  4. Future Prospects: As the program continues to grow, the future prospects for the Florida Atlantic Owls football team look promising, with a strong coaching staff and a dedicated fan base.

The Future Looks Bright for FAU Owls Football

Florida Atlantic Owls football has come a long way since its start in 2001. With Tom Herman at the helm, the team is poised for more success. Playing at FAU Stadium, the Owls have a solid home base with a capacity of 29,419 fans. Their move to the American Athletic Conference (AAC) opens up new opportunities for growth and competition.

Notable players like Trey Hendrickson and Alfred Morris have paved the way for future stars. The rivalry with Florida International University keeps the excitement high. With a strong coaching staff and dedicated fan base, the Owls are ready to soar to new heights.

From their first win to recent performances, the Owls have shown resilience and promise. As they continue to build on their history, the future looks bright for Florida Atlantic Owls football.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year was the Florida Atlantic Owls football team established?
Kicking off their journey in 2001, the Florida Atlantic Owls football team quickly became a force to reckon with in college football.
Who was the first head coach of the FAU Owls?
Howard Schnellenberger, a legend in the coaching world, took the helm as the first head coach, steering the team through its formative years.
Have the Owls won any conference championships?
Yes, indeed! The Owls have clinched several conference championships, showcasing their prowess on the field and determination to come out on top.
What's the name of the stadium where the Owls play their home games?
FAU Stadium, affectionately known as "The House that Howard Built," serves as the battleground for the Owls' home games, offering fans a thrilling experience.
Can you name a notable player who went on to the NFL?
Among the Owls who soared into the NFL, Alfred Morris stands out. His remarkable journey from FAU to professional football inspires many.
What's the highest rank the Owls have achieved in the AP Poll?
While the Owls have had their share of ups and downs, their relentless spirit has seen them climb impressive heights, though the exact highest AP Poll ranking varies by season.
How can fans support the Owls during the season?
Fans can show their support by attending games, sporting the team's colors, and following the Owls on social media for the latest news and updates. Cheering from the stands or afar, every bit of support fuels the team's spirit.
What's the future outlook for the FAU Owls football team?
With a strong foundation and a community of passionate supporters, the future looks bright for the Owls. Each season brings new opportunities for triumphs and challenges, promising exciting football action for fans and players alike.

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