From their site:
https://www.fauowlsnest.com/news/view/football/game-capsu... Owl Notes
From an offensive standpoint, FAU couldn't look better to start the season.
They entertained their home crowd with six touchdowns, five of them coming from quarterback Casey Thompson as he threw them to receivers Tony Johnson, Je'Quan Burton, and Lajohntay Wester. Thompson's five passing touchdowns has him tied for fourth in the country in that category.
"I saw those guys making some key blocks in the run game and key blocks down field when guys are out there in the open so I'm really happy, not just for those individually, but more so the future of that side of the ball," head coach Tom Herman said on the receivers' performances.
Among the receiving trio, Johnson shined the brightest. Getting more playing time towards the latter part of last season, he drew praise from head coach Tom Herman throughout fall camp as he earned a starting spot against Monmouth. He did not disappoint either, tallying up to two touchdowns and 91 yards (72 long) on five receptions, all career-highs for the redshirt sophomore.
One could expect the Owls' run game to play a more crucial role against Ohio than it did against Monmouth. Running back Larry McCammon III scored a touchdown and reached over 100 rushing yards for the fifth time in his career, as Kobe Lewis returns to the fray after sitting out against Monmouth due to a rib injury.
FAU will need to have significant defensive adjustments to stop Ohio, especially with stopping the passing game. They allowed 249 yards and two touchdowns in the air, which Ohio is averaging 191.5 yards and two touchdowns per game in that department. Taking into account that they only sacked Monmouth's quarterback once, having the need to be more persistent in breaking the Bobcats' defensive line and getting to their quarterback would be the remedy to the Owls succeeding.
Two surprises that came from the Owls' defense was defensive end Marlon Bradley and cornerback Darius McClendon. Playing as a reserve for most of his career with the program, Bradley took advantage of the opportunity to be a starter by making five tackles (three solo) and recording the team's only sack for a loss of seven yards. On the other hand, McClendon impressed in his Owl debut with six tackles (five solo) and a pass deflection while splitting reps with Jayden Williams at the nickelback slot.
They patiently await the status of defensive co-captain Armani Eli-Adams, who is in concussion protocol as Herman hopes he can return to practice on Thursday and be available for Saturday.
With their first two home games out of the way, the Owls will then head out on the road to South Carolina and face the Clemson Tigers on September 16th at 8:00 PM.
Star Watch: RB Larry McCammon III Even as the Owls' receivers stole the show against Monmouth, McCammon III continued to be a highlight reel, hurdling a defender and making a long run to get the Owls close to the end zone as it resulted in a touchdown.
His reliability and production will be put to the test against Ohio's run defense, which only allowed 34 rushing yards against Long Island. He will have Kobe Lewis and Zuberi Mobley to back him up, but this provides a great opportunity for McCammon III to help the Owls avenge last season's defeat to the Bobcats.
Final Word As FAU continues their season, their offense has shown impressive strength with a dynamic performance in the latest game, including quarterback Casey Thompson's exceptional five passing touchdowns. The run game is expected to play a more prominent role, led by Larry McCammon III, who has consistently delivered standout moments.
Defensive adjustments will be critical in their upcoming matchup against Ohio, particularly in countering the passing game, and the Owls await the status of key player Armani Eli-Adams.