Sun Sentinel Palm Beach Edition
Dwyer alums impress at FAU
Cousart, Hearns make plays in spring game
BOCA RATON — After starring at Dwyer High School, Dante Cousart and Gerald Hearns both began their college football careers away from home.
The two both made their way back to Palm Beach County at FAU as walk-ons, and on Saturday, made an impact during FAU’s spring game. Cousart hauled in three catches for 31 yards, while Hearns carried the ball 13 times and scored on a 1-yard touchdown run during the Owls’ spring exhibition.
“They’re great players to have on your team and coach,” Dwyer coach Jack Daniels said. “Unselfish, hardworking — [they’re] great kids with great personalities. [FAU]’s very lucky to have those guys.”
Cousart, who played his freshman year at Assumption College (Massachusetts), has made his way up the depth chart following a solid spring. While the redshirt junior hasn’t recorded a catch yet during a game at FAU, Cousart ran with the first unit at times in the spring and was targeted frequently by new quarterback Chris Robison on Saturday.
“It’s pretty exciting,” Cousart said. “A lot of people wouldn’t think I could do it, but I always trusted myself, put in the work and we see the outcome.”
During the opening drive of the game, Cousart found space down the middle of the field and hauled in a 26-yard catch. Later, he took a massive hit after a short reception but was able to hold on for a 9-yard gain.
While Cousart has impressed so far, he’ll have to continue to battle as the Owls have a pair of talented junior college receivers enrolling in the summer.
“There’s going to be guys coming in everywhere,” Cousart said. “I’m always going to work my hardest and put in my work. I can’t be complacent with where I am. I’ve got a long ways to go and I’ve got a lot of work to do.”
On the other side, Hearns took advantage of star running back Devin Singletary’s absence Saturday. (Singletary was held out due to a lingering hamstring injury.)
Known for his tenacious blocking in high school, the Owls consistently dialed up running plays for Hearns. The former Florida A&M back, powered his way into the end zone as time expired in the first half to put the white team on the board.
“One of my things this offseason was coming in and working toward making plays and being an asset towards this team.” Hearns said.
“I think I had a solid performance. A few minor mistakes I can correct on film, but I thought I played hard and was able to execute and have great communication with the offensive line when the quarterback wasn’t able to give a call off for the protection.”