Florida Atlantic Owls 2024 Season Preview

The Florida Atlantic Owls head into their second season under Tom Herman with hopes of the program’s first winning record since 2019. Florida Atlantic posted a 4-8 record last year during its first season in the AAC.

The last two winning seasons (both conference titles) were accomplished under Lane Kiffin in 2017 and 2019 while Florida Atlantic was in Conference USA.

Florida Atlantic had some significant departures in the transfer portal, including three quarterbacks who elected to move to other programs. Also, electric wide receiver LaJohntay Wester (108 receptions, 1,168 yards, eight touchdowns) is now a member of Coach Deion Sanders’ Colorado Buffaloes.

The Owls picked up Marshall quarterback transfer Cameron Fancher, a viable candidate as the new starter. Fancher tallied 2,162 yards and 11 touchdowns last year during his redshirt sophomore campaign. Fancher also has some running ability with his longest carry being 63 yards.

Other starting quarterback candidate Tyriq Starks performed admirably during the spring.

Regardless of who’s under center, improving on downfield throws and picking up the pace offensively will be a major point of emphasis. The Owls lacked the typical tempo of Herman’s previous offenses.

BJ Alexander is the top returning receiver, while transfers Milan Tucker and Marylyn Johnson will get plenty of snaps as well. Getting tight end Zeke Moore involved in the passing game will also be key.

Zuberi Mobley and Florida State transfer CJ Campbell will get the bulk of the carries.

Jackson Ambush is Florida Atlantic’s brightest spot on defense. Ambush led the Owls in tackles (89 overall, 6.5 for loss) along with a sack and interception.

Jayden Williams and Daedae Hill accounted for a total of 77 tackles, five pass breakups and three interceptions last season. Former Indiana safety Phillip Dunnam and ex-Maine cornerback Kahzir Brown will see plenty of playing time.

The pass rush has to make significant strides to take pressure off the secondary. With gargantuan Evan Anderson gone, Marlon Bradley and Purdue transfer Prince Boyd will be vital cogs in that mission.

Logan Lupo handled punts and field goals last season for the Owls. Lupo had the longest punt in the AAC last season (71 yards). Replacing Wester for kick returners will be another difficult task.

Florida Atlantic is rated seventh for the 2024 AAC Championship odds. It’s still going to take more time for the Owls to rise into a conference contender.

However, with a schedule that features eight teams that didn’t make bowls last season, Florida Atlantic has a prime opportunity to build momentum with a winning record.