2008 OUTLOOK: The Owls finished 8-5 last season, won a share of the Sun Belt title and defeated Memphis in the New Orleans Bowl. With 18 starters returning, there is no reason to believe they can't repeat as league champions in 2008.

SCOUTING THE OFFENSE
The Owls averaged more than 31 points last season, and they could be even more explosive in 2008. Junior QB Rusty Smith was player of the year last season and returns the bulk of his offensive line and every skill player.

SCOUTING THE DEFENSE
FAU struggled defending against the pass at times last season, but overall, the defense features great team speed and outstanding linebackers. Senior LB Frantz Joseph led the Sun Belt with 131 tackles last season. The defensive line should be a strength, led by seniors Jervonte Jackson and Robert St. Clair.

SCOUTING THE SPECIAL TEAMS
Senior place-kicker Warley Leroy made 19-of-27 field goals and missed just PATs last season. Junior punter Keegan Peterson returns after averaging more than 40 yards a punt. Senior DiIvory Edgecomb is one of the top returners in the conference.

ROSTER REPORT

--Junior TE Jason Harmon, a first-team all-league pick in 2007, suffered a knee injury in the spring, but he is expected to be full strength by August.

--Junior WR Frantz Simeon sat out last season due to academic reasons.

Copyright (C) 2008 The Sports Xchange. All Rights Reserved.