Florida Atlantic is entering its second season with head coach Tom Herman at the helm. The first season was challenging for Herman and FAU, beginning with a victory over Monmouth but followed by three consecutive losses.
October showed promise with tree wins out of four games, yet a four-game losing streak closed out the year, culminating in a 4-8 record and only three conference victories for Herman and the Owls.
On another note, Jonathan Smith joins the Spartans after coaching at Michigan State. Mel Tucker began the season as head coach but was suspended without pay after two games and subsequently dismissed due to allegations of sexual harassment.
Despite Tucker's 2-0 start, the team concluded the season with a 2-8 record, resulting in a four-win season for the Spartans.
Florida Atlantic at Michigan State Game Day
Date: Friday, Aug. 30
Time: 7:00 PM Eastern Time
TV: Big Ten Network
City: East Lansing, Mich.
Stadium: Spartan Stadium
For all Big Ten games being played, here's the FULL SCHEDULE .
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Michigan State Versus Florida Atlantic History
The two universities met three times in 2008, 2010, and 2011. The Spartans won all three games, outscoring the Owls 91-17 with their last encounter being a 44-0 shutout.
Betting Odds
The Spartans are the heavy favorites going against the Owls. As of Thursday, Aug. 29, FanDuel has the following betting lines.
Spread: Michigan State -13.5 (-115); Florida Atlantic +13.5 (-105)
Over/Under: Over 45.5 (-105), Under 45.5 (-115)
Michigan State Notables
Jonathan Smith begins his tenure as the Spartans' head coach with a focus on rebuilding the program and restoring a winning culture, similar to what he achieved at Oregon State. Smith brings a mix of experience and talent from Oregon State, including key players and coaches, and aims to expedite the turnaround process for the Spartans.
Freshman quarterback Aidan Chiles, who followed Smith from Oregon State, will make his first career start for the Spartans. Chiles is an explosive dual-threat QB with the ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate throws on the run. His performance under pressure, especially against FAU's defense, will be crucial in determining the outcome of the game.
Michigan State's offense will rely heavily on its running game, led by Nate Carter and Kay'Ron Lynch-Adams, both of whom bring versatility and power. Additionally, tight end Jack Velling, who led the nation in receiving touchdowns for a tight end last season at Oregon State, will be a key target in the passing game, providing a reliable option for Chiles over the middle. The offensive line's ability to protect Chiles and create opportunities for the run game will be essential for MSU's success.
Michigan State Player to Watch
Aidan Chiles brings a dynamic dual-threat capability to Michigan State, making him one of the most athletic and versatile quarterbacks that FAU will face this season. His ability to both pass effectively and extend plays with his legs will challenge FAU's defense, which will need to focus on making him one-dimensional to limit his impact.
Florida Atlantic Notables
Cam Fancher will make his debut as FAU's starting quarterback and captain, with his dual-threat ability crucial for the Owls' offense. Fancher's effectiveness in executing both the run and pass game will be vital, especially against Michigan State's defense, which will likely bring pressure from the edge under new coach Jonathan Smith.
FAU will rely heavily on its running game, featuring dynamic backs CJ Campbell Jr. and Zuberi Mobley, to support Fancher and set up the RPO and deep passing plays. The offensive line, particularly tackles Daughtry Richardson and Malcolm Lamar, must have strong performances to protect Fancher against a formidable Michigan State pass rush.
The Owls' defense, led by a strong front seven and talented secondary, will be key in containing Michigan State's offense. FAU's ability to generate pressure on MSU's quarterback Aidan Chiles, alongside strong performances from linebackers like Jackson Ambush and the ball-hawking secondary, will be crucial in limiting big plays and giving FAU a chance to upset Michigan State.
Florida Atlantic Player to Watch
CJ Campbell Jr. is expected to play a critical role in FAU's offensive strategy against Michigan State. His ability to contribute as both a speedy and powerful running back will be vital in helping the Owls establish a diverse offensive attack. A strong performance from Campbell in the run game will be essential for setting up FAU's RPO and play action plays, keeping the Spartan defense off balance.
Related: Florida Atlantic Football Finally Breaks Silence on Michigan State QB Aidan Chiles' Comments
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