Florida Atlantic

What You Need To Know

The Owls are actually to several key fantasy prospects.  Topping the list might be TE Jason Harmon, who is back after missing 2008 with a knee injury.  QB Rusty Smith came into the 2008 with high expectations, but was a bit disappointing as his stats dropped off significantly.  He could be in for a rebound year.  WR Cortez Gent has been remarkably consistent over the past two years, averaging 1,000 yards and 9 TDs.

Best Fantasy Prospect(s)

Our top FAU fantasy prospect is TE Jason Harmon.  He proved throughout the spring that he appears to be nearly 100% recovered from a knee injury he suffered back in August.  Harmon caught 63 balls for 825 yards and 5 touchdowns in 2007, outstanding numbers for a fantasy tight end.  Jamari Grant looks to be the No. 2 TE on the depth chart, with Rob Housler probably taking a redshirt.

QB Rusty Smith is poised for a bounceback season.  In 2007, he passed for 3,689 yards and accounted for 34 touchdowns.  High expectations ensued.  His numbers dipped in 2008 to 3,224 passing yards and 26 TDs.  We think he will be closer to his ‘07 stats this fall.

WR Cortez Gent caught 60 balls for 935 yards and 9 TDs in 2008.  With the dangerous Harmon back in the starting lineup, Gent should find more space in the defensive backfield and have a 1,000 yard season.

Sleeper Prospect

One item on Coach Howard Schnellenberger’s spring to-do list was to find a suitable replacement for departing RB Charles Pierre (1,014 yards and 8 TDs in 2008) .  MIssion accomplished.  Fullback turned running back Alfred Morris stepped up to the plate, having big scrimmage after big scrimmage this spring.  He elevated himself into the starting lineup.  Morris is a powerful 222-pounder who could do some real damage in the Sun Belt conference. 

Biggest Question Heading into August

Will Harmon’s knee hold up this season?  All indications are that he will be fine, but there is always that concern.

Spring Game Hero

Backup RB Avionne Rolle carried the ball 10 times for 95 yards, including a 70-yard scamper.

Injury Report

RB Jeff Blanchard headed into spring camp as the projected starter, but tore his ACL early in practice and could be lost for the season.

Spring Recaps - Team Index