BOCA RATON – The FAU spring game’s final outcome came to two things: mixed feelings and mixed results.
The Red Team
Red’s defense started off fast by getting an early turnover, as linebacker Rashad Smith recovered a fumble and returned it for a few yards.
Red’s offense came out a little flat at first, but picked things up with a touchdown pass from Chris Robinson to John Raines. Red would capitalize again on a 1-yard touchdown run from Silver Saunders.
Jalen Young would make his presence felt as he usually does by terrorizing the quarterback on a strip-sack and fumble recovery return. This play truly showed that Young is ready for his senior year.
Redshirt freshman walk-on kicker Tyler Gilley from Niceville (Fla.) hit fields goals from 34 and 42 yards out. Gilley is making a case for himself to be on the FAU squad heading into summer training camp and potentially this fall.
Dwyer football alum and FAU walk-on Dante Cousart is another player who is making a name for himself. He has elite quickness and crisp route-running ability that will make him a premium in FAU’s offense this fall.
Cousart was virtually unheard of up until this spring, but he could be a household name soon. With the showing he had this spring, he’s definitely a player to have on your radar.
The White Team
De’Andre Johnson showed off his arm in spring game by throwing a bomb to Jovon Durante, who could potentially a frontrunner for being a starting receiver for the Owls this fall. Johnson’s arm looks great and he’ll definitely be in a head-to-head battle with Chris Robinson, who didn’t do too bad himself.
Wideout Willie Wright has continued to impress with his speed and catching ability, and it was much of the same story on Saturday. Wright hasn’t lost a step and shows no signs of slowing down.
Running back and Dwyer alum Gerald Hearns filled in well for Devin Singletary and did everything in his power to prove he belongs, potentially being a power-to-speed guy like former Owl running back Greg “Buddy” Howell.
Final observations
Overall, the spring game was a success and seemed to be a true evaluation of talent as most spring circuits for football are used for. The offense will develop this summer once the entire team is healthy, and the defense looks great and should only get better from spring practice.
It will be interesting to see what the summer months bring to this FAU squad, especially with the offense’s uncertainty at the quarterback position.
