Postgame Takeaways From Army's Victory Against Florida Atlantic

The game between Florida Atlantic (0-2) and Army (2-0) featured memorable moments from both teams, both positive and negative, culminating in a 24-7 victory for the Black Knights on Saturday afternoon.

Army showed that the triple option is still alive and well, displaying on the field that the specific way they play can still wreak havoc against opponents even as teams anticipate them to run the ball as much as possible.

On the other side, Florida Atlantic disappointed after a promising season opener against Michigan State. While their quarterback slightly improved after last week, the overall performance against Army was a major letdown compared to how much they competed against an opponent who plays in the Big Ten.

Here are some takeaways on both teams following the matchup:

Florida Atlantic Takeaways

Offense

FAU struggled offensively in their home opener against Army, managing only 235 total yards and a single touchdown in the defeat. While quarterback Cam Fancher showed some promise, completing 25 of 37 passes for 193 yards and a score, he was inconsistent overall, particularly on third downs where the Owls converted just three of 10 attempts.

The run game was also ineffective, totaling just 42 yards, which contributed to frequent third-and-long situations that FAU found difficult to convert. Head coach Tom Herman acknowledged the need for greater consistency.

“We’re not good enough offensively right now to be in third-and-longs, it’s a recipe for disaster,” he said after the game, according to the postgame video published by FAU Owls Nest on YouTube.

Defense

FAU's defense struggled to contain Army's potent option attack, allowing 405 rushing yards. Though the unit made some key plays, including a forced fumble by freshman safety CJ Heard, the offense's inability to capitalize kept the defense on the field too long, ultimately wearing them down.

The Black Knights exploited gaps in the run defense with big plays, including a career day for slot-back Noah Short. Coach Herman noted that while Army's methodical ground game was expected, the Owls needed to limit those gains to shorter yardages.

“They were churning out…four or five six yards, you know, those have got to be one-yard gains and two-yard gains," he said postgame.

Army Takeaways

Offense

Army's offense excelled against FAU, primarily through a powerful ground game that amassed 405 rushing yards, leading to the victory. Quarterback Bryson Daly effectively executed the option offense, making critical reads and keeping the FAU defense on its heels.

The standout performer was slot-back Noah Short, who showcased his speed on the outside, contributing significantly to Army's rushing success. Running back Kanye Udoh also made key plays, including an eight-yard touchdown run that helped establish an early lead.

Army's ability to control the tempo, dominate time of possession, and capitalize on FAU's defensive lapses with both outside runs and strategic passing enabled them to maintain control throughout the game.

Defense

Army's defense was instrumental in shutting down FAU's offensive efforts, allowing just 235 total yards and only one touchdown. The unit also forced one turnover, including one interception by FAU quarterback Cam Fancher.

The defense's relentless pressure prevented FAU from developing any consistent rhythm, forcing them into numerous third-and-long situations where they struggled to convert, finishing just 3-for-10 on third downs.

Freshman safety CJ Heard stood out for FAU with a forced fumble and recovery that led to their lone score, but overall, Army's defense kept the Owls in check and dictated the game's outcome.

What's Next For Both Teams

The Owls will stay home in Boca Raton as they host in-state rivals Florida Internation University on Sept. 14 at 6 p.m. ET.

As for Army, they will return home as they host the Rice University Owls on Sept. 14 at noon ET.

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