FAU vs. Florida A&M 2025: Keys to the Game and Predictions

Facing off against Maryland in Week 1, the Terrapins dispatched the Florida Atlantic Owls by a score of 39-7. In almost every way, it was a discouraging start for FAU football and new head coach Zach Kittley. However, the great thing is that the game against Maryland is only one game. And in Week 2, the Owls have a great opportunity to get back on track against the Florida A&M Rattlers.

The talent gap should be significant in this game. It should allow the defense to build upon its good start in Week 1 and feel good heading into a tough part of their schedule. It will also allow quarterback Caden Veltkamp, the offensive line, and the team’s weapons to get way more comfortable with each other. Most importantly, the matchup should allow the Owls to record their first matchup of the season.

How do the Owls stack up against the Rattlers? And how can FAU ensure that they leave their Week 2 matchup on a positive note? Let’s dive in.

FAU Owls vs. FAMU Rattlers Game History

In the history of both football programs, FAU and FAMU have only met one time on the gridiron. And in that matchup, the Owls swiftly took care of the Rattlers.

FAU beat FAMU in a 38-8 blowout back in October of 2004. In that game, the Owls had over 300 yards passing, 200 yards rushing, and forced three turnovers.

FAU vs. FAMU: Keys to the Game and Predictions

Key Players for FAU

The offense’s most important player on Saturday is none other than quarterback Caden Veltkamp. After an extremely poor outing against Maryland, the Western Kentucky transfer needs to improve in every aspect of the game.

Veltkamp needs to be more accurate with the football, get the ball out faster, and show that he can make the right decisions. Additionally, I want to see Veltkamp’s improved mechanics and some glimpses of throw on the run ability.

The FAU signal caller’s Week 1 will ultimately be a blip on the radar in 2025. However, Veltkamp cannot have more performances like the Maryland game, or the Owls will not be going anywhere on offense this season. FAMU is a perfect get-right game for the quarterback, and Veltkamp needs to take full advantage of it.

In addition to Veltkamp, FAU needs high-quality production from tackle Ja’Kavion Nonar. Despite his struggles against Maryland, the line looked much worse when he exited for a few plays last Saturday. Nonar has the measurables and skill to be a nice piece on the offensive line for FAU. However, he has to show that he can capitalize on his opportunity this year. FAMU offers a great opportunity for him, and Nonar needs to set the foundation for the rest of 2025 in this game.

On defense, Tyler Stolsky and Zion Paret are the two key players to watch for FAU.

Stolsky was solid against Maryland, notching five tackles and a pressure while playing with a club on his hand. He showcased his leadership ability by leading by example with his play on the field.

Paret, playing limited snaps, was solid in coverage and also had a quarterback pressure. For his first game at the college level, he did not look overmatched in the slightest.

Against the FAMU expect both players to play to the fullest of their capabilities. Stolsky has the potential to be a game-wrecker in the middle of the field. Meanwhile, Paret can lock down the lot for the Owls. If they both play to their potential, along with the rest of the unit stepping up, FAU should cruise to a victory.

Key Players for FAMU

On offense, quarterback RJ Johnson presents a unique challenge for the FAU defense. As a passer, Johnson was pretty solid overall last week. He completed 17-of-33 passes for 183 yards, hitting two big-time throws in the process. As a runner, Johnson had 26 yards on four carries, with 27 yards after contact. The Owls have struggled with mobile quarterbacks in the past. As a result, FAU will have to be careful in how they approach dealing with Johnson.

On defense, the Rattlers have a fun linebacker in Jason Riles. Against Howard, Riles had four tackles, three pressures, and provided good run defense (77.9 PFF Grade). It’ll be fascinating to see how he deals with the up-tempo scheme of Zach Kittley. Yet, if he provides another solid game, Riles could help the Rattlers’ defense make some plays.

How FAU Football Wins in Week 2

For FAU to win this football game, here are the main keys the Owls need to focus on.

Execute on Offense

To be frank, the Owls need to take a significant step forward in their Week 2 matchup. Veltkamp needs to throw the ball all over the yard, the receivers need to execute their routes, the offensive line needs to execute, and the run game needs to be better. FAU needs to set the tone for the rest of their season in this game, and anything less than that may be considered a failure for the Owls.

Set the tone on defense

In this Week 2 matchup, the Owls’ defense needs to fly around and make plays early in this game. The linebackers need to continue to make tackles, the secondary has to continue to execute, and the defensive line needs to continue to punch the opposing team in the mouth. If the Owls’ offense stumbles out of the gate, the defense has to pick them up.

Play Smart Football

Upsets occur when teams get sloppy and lose their fundamentals. If FAU continues to avoid penalties, execute their assignments, and do not make unforced errors, they will be in a great position to win the football game.