CSNbbs

OK, this is not the type of game I like to see on the schedule. As I've said before, I'm not a fan of FCS teams as openers, but if you have to have them on the schedule, make them somewhat local in nature. Yet, Southern Illinois @ FAU is what the schedule makers presented to Coach Partridge and the Owls, so they need to make the best of it and deliver a beat down of a so-so FCS team.

The Salukis were a fairly good playoff team in the 2000's, but have been a middling team in the MVC since 2010. Last year, they ended up 3-9, and their best player (a QB) has since graduated. They also get a new coach this year, who may have some talent at the skill positions on offense, but is installing a new defensive scheme. None of this causes me to think that SIU will give FAU much of a test.

I don't know what to say about FAU. They were really young last year, were competitive (although they couldn't put games away) and boast some real talent potential based on their more than decent recruiting in the last couple of years.

But FAU has been an under-performing team since they joined the league, although they have the talent to be much better than they've shown us thus far. I know, I'm bordering on being disrespectful, so I'll acknowledge that, apologize, and say that there is no reason in the world why FAU shouldn't be kicking butt and challenging the upper tier teams in the East. This tune up game, should allow the Owls to fine tune a bit and get in the middle of it. Anything less than a stomping over SIU would not be a good omen.

FAU 38 - SIU 10.

I think Cnelson covered it pretty well. If FAU is going bowling this year, this is the game that has to get them started in that direction. Finding the next five wins is going to be much more difficult. Good luck, kick some Saluki butt, and have a good season, Owls.

Didn't FAU have a DT just go down? What is the depth situation there?

Not overly happy with the opponent, as I agree. I would of LOVED to have FAMU or Bethune Cookman in the stadium as they are local and would help with attendnace as well.

Hopefully we blow this one of out of the water. If not you'll probably have to put me on suicide watch. The next 3 games are Miami, Kansas State, and Ball State. FAU needs to walk out of OOC with a 2-2.

Yes we did lose a DT. Its not our deepest position but were not bare either. Expect some Freshman to get some time.

No disrespect taken. I feel like every year since joining CUSA, FAU has been that team that's selected to be the dark horse. They play up to their opponents, and then self destruct with inexperience in the 4th quarter.

I think you'll see most FAU fans agree with what you said about under-performing, and about scheduling FCS teams. I'm with OwlFamily, if we're going to schedule an FCS team, let's make it an in-state program.

We did lose a DT, Ray Ellis. I had a couple of classes with him. Shame, he's a really good guy who's very upset by the injury. The DT is wearing about thin, so expect some younger players (pinch me if you've heard this before) be forced to rotate in alongside Shalom Ogbonda.

(08-11-2016 08:24 AM)ODU AGGIE Wrote: [ -> ]I think Cnelson covered it pretty well. If FAU is going bowling this year, this is the game that has to get them started in that direction. Finding the next five wins is going to be much more difficult. Good luck, kick some Saluki butt, and have a good season, Owls.

Good thing Don Carter Lanes is nearby...

Southern Illinois has been a power in FCS for years now. They put on a good show against IU last season I do believe in Bloomington. Look for FAU to win in Boca but it won't be a blow out I don't believe.