Florida Atlantic University Fighting Owls vs. Sienna College Saints

FAU run offense vs. Sienna run defenseAnthony Jackson has emerged as the top back in the rotating running game, but against Sienna everyone will get large numbers. The Saints have been yielding 178 yards-a-game and this game will be no different. Jackson, Daveon Barron, and Doug parker might all have 100 yards before this game is over.Edge: FAU

FAU pass offense vs. Sienna pass defenseFAU has been unstoppable through the air all season. In their last game, Coach Schnellenberger let Danny Embick replace Jared Allen for a brief time because of Allen’s knee injury. Embick was just as effective, throwing a touchdown pass against the Bulldogs. Embick should see extended playing time because this game will be out of reach early. Edge: FAU

Sienna run offense vs. FAU run defenseThe Saints are averaging 169 yards-a-game, but they have not played a team with the skill level of FAU. Since running is all Sienna really does well, it will be a long and fun day for FAU’s defensive line. The Owls pride themselves on stopping the run so don’t expect the Saints to have more than 60 yards on the ground.Edge: FAU

Sienna pass offense vs. FAU pass defenseSienna will need to pass to stay in this game. Unfortunately for Sienna, Willy Hughley has taken a liking to the football, with an interception in each of the last two games. Sienna has thrown 11 interceptions on the season and if they go to the air too much that number will definitely increase.Edge: FAU

Special teamsThe Saints are averaging 20 yards-a-return and have scored a touchdown on a punt return so far this season. That should help them with field position and maybe give them a spark if they can return another for a score. Mark Myers missed his first field goal of the year against Gardner-Webb but that will not slow FAU in this game. Edge: Sienna

IntangiblesFAU is climbing in the polls while making a push for the Division I-AA playoffs. They are currently 15th, but they still need to impress voters for a chance to make the field of sixteen, which will compete for a championship. The crowd at Lockhart has been dismal and since this should be an easy game for FAU, it will not be any better. The Owls have to avoid looking ahead to Shula II, which is their annual showdown with FIU on November 22.Edge: FAU

UP staff predictionThe Owls have made it this far with only 2 losses, one to a Division I-A team and one to a Division II team. They know what needs to be done and will not settle for a mediocre performance. Look for FAU to end this game early and do not be surprised if they run the score up to catch the eyes of the poll voters.FAU 65 – Sienna 0