After being outscored 85-3 in their first two games this season, the Owls were looking for any signs of life in an offense stuck in quick sand.
They haven’t made it out yet, but they found something to keep them afloat.
Not only did FAU have its first lead of the season when they were leading Auburn 3-0 only three and a half minutes into the game, but the Owls also scored their first touchdown of the season when Graham Wilbert connected with Alfred Morris on a 12-yard touchdown pass—and it only took 12 quarters to get it.
The final score indicated a game that wasn’t close. The final score can also be deceiving. At halftime the Owls were only behind 10-6.
Against the University of Florida the score was 24-3 at the half. Against Michigan State it was 27-0 at halftime.
The Owls had two weeks to prepare for Auburn and in those two weeks both the offense and defense took strides in the right direction.
The Owls offense, which ranked 119th in passing yards, 120th in rushing yards and 120th in the nation in points per game showed signs of life that they can move the ball. The problem was finishing off drives.
The Owls, statistically speaking, were right there with the defending national champion Auburn Tigers. FAU won the time of possession battle (33:46 for the Owls and 26:14 for the Tigers) had more first downs (20-16) and only had 8 less total yards than the Tigers did.
The difference between the two teams was the Owls inexperience. FAU committed 6 penalties. All in the first half and quarterback Graham Wilbert threw three interceptions. One was returned for a touchdown by Auburn defensive back Jermaine Whitehead and another two which gave Auburn prime field position.
Offensive coordinator Darryl Jackson called a great game using Auburn’s blitzing against them by using draw plays and screens but whenever the Owls had the ball in Tigers territory, the play calling become conservative and the Owls failed to put points on the scoreboard.
Heading into conference play the Owls are poised for a win as they still have two road games before they open their new stadium on Oct. 15.
With Graham Wilbert developing confidence as the leader of the Owls on offense, Alfred Morris regaining midseason form as he had 128 all-purpose yards.
If the Owls intend to win the Sun Belt conference and head to a bowl game the real challenge begins now. Florida, Michigan State and Auburn were meaningless if FAU can win the conference title.
If the game against Auburn proved anything — FAU is taking baby steps in the right direction.
