Special teams frustrate Kiffin
BOCA RATON — During practices last week, the emphasis for Florida Atlantic was tackling.
This time, the focus is special teams, particularly punting. The Owls have allowed blocked punts returned for touchdowns in both games this season.
“Obviously on the punt protection, two weeks in a row getting a punt blocked, that might be a world record,” FAU coach Lane Kiffin said. “Obviously, we have to do some work on that. We will just continue to try to improve in all areas.”
After having a blocked punt returned for a score in the opener against Oklahoma, the Owls’ mistake last week almost cost them a victory against Air Force. Leading 33-20, punter Sebastian Reilla had his kicked block and returned for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter. The Falcons recovered the ensuing onside kick, but the Owls were able to survive thanks to linebacker Rashad Smith’s interception.
Reilla, a freshman walkon, has struggled since replacing Ryan Rickel, who graduated. Reilla is averaging 36 yards a punt, which ranks 129th nationally. Last year, Rickel’s average was 42.4.
“The time was really slow in the first game, but the time wasn’t slow in this one, but you still have to block the people,” Kiffin said. “In that situation, it’s just not very good by us when you know that is really the only thing that can change the game.”
QB solidified
Even though Kiffin says the competition at all positions will remain ongoing, the Owls have settled with freshman Chris Robison as the starter.
Robison will make his third consecutive start Saturday against BethuneCookman at FAU Stadium. The choice was easy after he threw for a schoolrecord 471 yards and three touchdowns against Air Force.
“Obviously, Chris’ play is deserving of the next start,” Kiffin said. “He played a really special game.”
Safety Young expected back
Safety Jalen Young, who left Saturday’s game with an undisclosed injury, is expected back in uniform this week.
Young sustained the injury late in the first half and did not return. He was able to walk off the field on his own.
RB Singletary content with play
Running back Devin “Motor” Singletary has gotten off to somewhat of a slow start. Through two games he has just 126 yards on 34 carries. His 3.7 yards per carry are nearly half of last year’s 6.4.
Opponents have made a commitment to stopping him, forcing the Owls to rely on the passing game more.
“It’s not strange at all,” Singletary said. “That comes with the game.”
The decline has put a damper on the Owls’ Heisman campaign for Singletary. They are hoping his numbers begin to improve as they did last season. Last year, he was held under 100 yards in the first two games before going on to set the school record with 1,920 yards and lead the nation with 32 touchdowns.