BOCA RATON, Fla. – Florida Atlantic University student-athletes are adaptive and will come to work every day, rain or shine.
The Owls moved to the turf filed on Tuesday morning under cloudy skies and constant rain. The downpour was sometimes blowing sideways, as the team continued their preparation for this weekend’s game versus Conference USA foe North Texas, despite weather caused by Hurricane Ian moving across Cuba and predicted to head up the west coast of Florida.
This weekend’s game is the second-consecutive game that FAU (2-3, 1-0 C-USA) will be on the road. The Owls will be in Denton, Texas facing UNT (2-3, 1-0 C-USA). Kickoff is slated for 4 p.m. eastern. Fans can watch the game on ESPN+ or tune in via Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida for the call.
Heading into the weekend, expect redshirt sophomore LaJohntay Wester to play a pivotal role in the game as the nation’s leader in touchdown receptions. He also stands in at No. 5 in total touchdowns and No. 10 in total points. Quarterback N’Kosi Perry is listed among the nation’s top-20 in four categories, including No. 5 in passing touchdowns and points responsible for, No. 13 in passing yards and 18 in points responsible for per game. Larry McCammon is No. 12 in rushing yards.
QUOTABLE
Redshirt Freshman Running Back Zuberi Mobley
On staying focused in the rain
“It’s what you make of it. Days like this, I try to come out and give it my all.”
On the threat of a hurricane or tropical storm
“I get phone calls from the family, but I try to stay focused on what I have to do.”
On his increasing role in the offense
“As far as experience, I feel like it’s time right now. I’m more confident going into every game and I feel like I get better every week.”
On where he has improved most since the start of the season
“My protection, my vision as well, catching the ball in the backfield.”
Sophomore Wide Receiver Lajohntay Wester
On how the other players on the offense help the team
“Our o-line definitely took a big jump from last year to this year. They’ve been doing really good. And then when you have a running back core and different receivers like Je’Quan (Burton) Jahmal Edrine, and Tony Johnson, it’s really easy to do your job…They can’t guard all of us at once, so someone is going to be one on one.”
On recovery and nutrition after playing offense, defense, and special teams
“I have to stretch every night and get treatment at least three times a day, that’s very important when you’re playing most positions like that.”
On his three TD performance against Purdue
“I definitely think Purdue was one of my breakout games, but I don’t think that was my best game yet, I just think we’re getting started. There’s more to come.”
On where he has improved since his freshman year
“My blocking, my route running, my speed has definitely improved, and my maturity and my leadership, definitely.”
On being a leader in the wide receiver room
“I don’t really see myself as a leader, I see myself as a role player. I just play my role and tell my guys the information that I have learned. (I) try to give all of the gems to them, so that when they get out there, they can move fast and play fast just like me.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
FAU Coaches Radio Show
For free mobile listening of all game broadcasts and coaches shows, FAU fans can download the Varsity Network app for iPhone or Android. The app features instant access to free gameday audio streams and the ability for fans to receive push notifications to remind them of games starting or upcoming audio broadcasts. Local fans can tune in to Hubbard Radio (Fox Sports South Florida 640 AM) to follow the team.
FAU Television Inside the Owls Burrow
This week’s show will include a sit down with Hagerty Family Head Football Coach Willie Taggart. Show host and producer Frank Forte and Taggart will review last week’s game at Purdue and will look ahead to this week’s contest at North Texas. The show will also feature wide receiver Je’Quan Burton in “Pads Off” and the “Where Are They Now” segment, will feature former Owl safety Sharrod Neasman. Left tackle and grad transfer Brendan Bordner and his grandmother, will be showcased in the final segment. Gale Bordner was the Owls’ first swim coach in 1985. The show will air on Thursday and Saturday at 11:30 a.m. on Bally Sports Florida.
TICKETS
To purchase FAU tickets, call 1-866-FAU-OWLS or click HERE or HERE. Individual tickets are now on sale as well. Call the FAU ticket office, today, to secure your tickets. Stay informed by reading FAUSports.com, or through football’s Twitter and Instagram accounts @FAUFootball.
