Owls’ QBs challenging each other

BOCA RATON — Florida Atlantic coach Lane isn’t trying to start a quarterback controversy.

Sophomore Daniel Parr is his starter. Kiffin just made it clear he wants to continue evaluating the position. Last week, backup Jason Driskel played most of the second half because the Owls were so far ahead of BethuneCookman on the way to a 45-0 victory.

“Quarterback is just like any other position. It’s always a competition. Those guys know that. You’ve got to play well to keep your job. It was good for [Driskel] to get in there a little bit. I expect both of them to play better.”

Parr and Driskel are the top options now that it’s more likely transfer De’Andre Johnson will miss several weeks or possibly the season because of blood clots. He recently underwent surgery but has been released from the hospital, according to Kiffin.

Junior linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, who sustained an undisclosed injury against Bethune-Cookman, participated in practice for a second consecutive day. His status for Saturday remains unknown, but Kiffin said he hopes Al-Shaair will play.

Sophomore cornerback Chris Tooley had a breakout game last week, but it wasn’t enough to win Conference USA Defensive Player of the Week honors. Tooley had two tackles, an interception and returned a fumble 14 yards for a touchdown. The award went to Louisiana Tech defensive lineman Jaylon Ferguson, who had six tackles and two sacks in a 23-22 upset of preseason favorite Western Kentucky.

Next game: FAU at Buffalo, Saturday, 7.p.m., ESPN3

Shandel Richardson Kiffin