BOCA RATON, Fla. – Week No. 1 began with Florida Atlantic University’s starting quarterback being named on Sunday. On Monday, Hagerty Family Head Coach Willie Taggart met with the media to set the week’s tone. On Tuesday, the captains were named, three players that will represent the Owls during the ceremonial coin toss at this Saturday’s season opener at the University of Florida: running back James Charles, STAR Ahman Ross and punter Matt Hayball.
The day’s work began with N’Kosi Perry as the first quarterback under center and the Owls divided into ones, twos and scout team as they continue preparation for No. 11 UF, scheduled to be televised on the SEC Network at 7:30 p.m. Saturday.
COORDINATOR’S CORNER
Offensive Coordinator Michael Johnson
“It is a big-time game week. We just have to make sure that we get our game plan down. Make sure that we hone in on the little details, fundamentals, the technique of each and every play, making sure that we are on top of all of our assignments and get to the point that by Thursday we are executing all of our game plan.”
On the importance of the run game and its depth:
“As you know, the thing that we always talk about is that everything starts with our run game and to have that kind of depth, in that room, is a good starting point. I think we have gotten better up front. The running back depth that we have, we feel good about six guys. Whoever has to go in that game can do a good job for us. That part of it gives us a big-time advantage, from a run game standpoint. I think we have guys that are versatile. I think that we have guys that can run the ball. Guys that can catch the ball and guys that can block. All of those different intangibles that they bring as a group is going to make us a better offensive football team.”
Does having the quarterback now named help?
“I think it makes it easier on the quarterback. Once the quarterback knows who he is and the offense knows who he is, he can kind of settle down and can kind of get comfortable in that role. For us as a coaching staff, now we tailor what we do to that individual and cut back and give him what he needs to be successful. I think it makes the whole offense better and gives everybody a calmness and peace in knowing who that guy is and we can go into that first game and feel comfortable.”
PERRY ON EARNING THE JOB
Quarterback N’Kosi Perry
On changing to No. 7:
“I found out last night. Coach texted and asked what number I wanted. I told him and they gave it to me today. I wore number 7 pretty much my whole live, ‘Pop Warner,’ the ‘Raiders.’ Michael Vick is my favorite quarterback, so that is why I picked it.”
On being named starting QB:
“He [Coach Taggart] told all the quarterbacks together and then went on to tell the team in a team meeting. It was obviously a great feeling. I knew if I worked my tail off it could happen and it would happen and it did. I’m grateful for it. I’m thankful for it and I’m ready to make the best of it.”
2021 SEASON
The Owls open up the 2021 campaign on the road on Saturday in Gainesville against Florida. The home opener is the following Saturday, at 3:30 p.m., hosting Georgia Southern. For more information on season tickets, call 1-866-FAU-OWLS or visit HERE.
Also scheduled for opening weekend at FAU Stadium is the Coach Howard Schnellenberger Celebration of Life, to be held the night before the game against GSU, Friday, Sept. 10, with the public event starting at 6 p.m. with videos and photos. The guest speaking portion of the evening will begin at 7:30 p.m.
