FAU Football: A Season of Triumph and Adversity
FAU Owls soar to new heights, but injuries and adversity strike
Florida Atlantic University's football team, the Owls, had a season of both triumph and adversity in 2022. The team soared to new heights, achieving their highest national ranking in program history and securing their first bowl game appearance since 2017.
Early Season Success and National Recognition
The Owls started the season with a bang, winning their first five games and earning a top-25 ranking in both the AP and Coaches Polls. Quarterback N'Kosi Perry led a high-powered offense, while the defense forced turnovers and kept opponents out of the end zone.
The highlight of the early season was a thrilling 31-28 victory over rival FIU in front of a sold-out crowd at FAU Stadium. Perry threw for over 300 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Larry McCammon rushed for 120 yards and a score.
In-Season Injuries and Adversity
However, the Owls' season took a turn in mid-October when Perry suffered a season-ending knee injury. Backup quarterback Jaquez Johnson stepped in and played admirably, but the offense struggled to maintain its early-season rhythm.
In addition to the quarterback injury, the Owls also lost several key defensive players to injuries, including linebacker Leighton McCarthy and cornerback Zyon Gilbert. These absences weakened the defense and made it difficult for the team to stop opposing offenses.
Season-Ending Losses and Bowl Game Berth
Despite the injuries, the Owls managed to win four of their final six games and clinch a berth in the Boca Raton Bowl. However, they suffered a disappointing 21-17 loss to Western Kentucky in the bowl game, ending the season with an 8-5 record.
Overall Assessment and Looking Ahead
Overall, the 2022 season was a success for FAU football. The team achieved its highest national ranking, won its first bowl game berth in five years, and developed several promising young players.
However, the injuries and adversity that the team faced also showed that there is still room for improvement. The Owls will need to stay healthy and develop more depth in key positions if they want to build on their success in the years to come.
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