Florida Atlantic University Owls 3-2 Vs Nicholls State 2-3

FAU Run Offense Vs. NSU Run Defense

The Owls running game has leveled out at 86 yards a game while the Colonels are allowing 138 a game. If the Owls have the lead late they will get more yards in this game if they run out the clock, but NSU will be able to contain them early. Look for FAU to try and establish a running game to help out Jared Allen.

Edge: NSU

FAU Pass Offense Vs. NSU Pass Defense

Jared Allen continues to put up big numbers, and each week someone new has stepped into the limelight for the receivers. Since Roosevelt Bynes has been double-teamed as of late, Anthony Crissinger-Hill and Matt Prudenti have come into the forefront. In 2 of 3 of Nicholls State losses they have given up more than 280 yards through the air, so look for FAU to exploit this part of the Colonel defense.

Edge: FAU

NSU Run Offense Vs. FAU Run Defense

In NSU’s two victories they ran for over 450 yards and they are averaging 398 yards a game on the ground. Luckily the Owls pride themselves in stopping the run. This will be the match-up of the game. Nicholls will look to pound the ball as the Owls will look to make as many plays in the backfield as possible. NSU will not break 250 yards but they will come close due to persistence.

Edge: NSU

NSU Pass Offense Vs. FAU Pass Defense

Last year the Owls let the Colonels beat them through the air. NSU had three passing touchdowns and two of them came against FAU so the Owls need to be on their toes. This year NSU already has 3 TD passes but have only thrown for 56 yards a game. The Owls need to control this aspect of NSU’s offense or they will be coming from behind all day.

Edge: FAU

Special Teams

Neither team has needed their special teams to win a game for them yet this year and that could hurt one of them in this game. Mike Myers is perfect on field goals but he has only attempted 3. NSU’s kicker is 2 of 5 on field goals so a close game will favor FAU.

Edge: FAU

Intangibles

This will be the second of five home games for FAU’s home stand and unless they have beaten Texas St., that stat could be in the Colonels favor. Also the Colonels will be coming off a bi-week so they will have extra time to prepare and heal. FAU’s only motivation is that they are close to becoming nationally ranked in all polls and they know what happened the last time they let up against Valdosta, 45-17 loss.

Edge: NSU

UP Staff Prediction

Until they prove us wrong the staff will always be picking FAU. The Owls are on the verge of something very special this season and they have already received their wake-up call from Valdosta. This will not be easy but since all the players from last year remember the loss, FAU will make sure NSU leaves Lockhart with a different opinion of the Fighting Owls.

Score: FAU 28 NSU 16

Game Day will run ever week there is an FAU football game played. If you would like in on the action email your score and pick to [email protected] the Friday before the game. Beat the staff prediction and get your name and photo in the paper and enter to win another prize determined by the editor. No one has beaten the staff this season, so get your pick in and be the first.