From David Volz
Despite a strong effort, the Florida Atlantic football team was defeated by Charlotte, 39-27, in their final home game of the 2024 season on Saturday afternoon. The Owls fall to 2-9.
C.J. Campbell Jr., a running back led the offense down the field on their opening possession, first turning a checkdown catch on 3rd-and-six into a first down and then breaking free for a 49-yard run to set up a 20-yard field goal for the early lead.
In the second quarter, the Owls had a strong performance from running back, Xavier Terrell who ran untouched into the end zone for the 21-yard score, his first career touchdown. Florida Atlantic was behind 16-10 at halftime.
The FAU offense fought hard during the second half. Down 26-13 with one minute remaining in the third quarter, quarterback Tyrig Starks hit redshirt sophomore wide receiver Omari Hayes down the left sideline, who took it 65 yards for a touchdown. On their next offensive drive, Campbell Jr. broke open for a season-long 58-yard touchdown to take a 27-26 lead early in the fourth quarter, immediately followed by a strong defensive stand with junior safety Phillip Dunnam gaining his third interception of this season.
The 49ers struck back with a deep touchdown reception and a fumble recovery touchdown to take the win.
Campbell recorded a career-high 150 yards on the ground, averaging seven yards-per-carry. He is up to 11 rushing TDs, tied for fifth most in a single season in program history, and his 13 total scores on the season is tied for third all-time
The Owls as a team rushed for 279 yards, second most on the season. Starks found nine different receivers on his 12 completions. On defense, Ambush led the way in tackles with eight, Wheeler and freshman DL Gavenich Marcelin combined for the team’s only sack. Dunnam was second on the team with five tackles
