Sun Sentinel Palm Beach Edition
Nice of Noel to supply the nasty
Junior’s aggressive play has given offensive line a much-needed boost
BOCA RATON — Considering the time and circumstances, Florida Atlantic offensive lineman Desmond Noel was a necessary addition for the Owls.
Noel joined the team two weeks into the 2019 season, when FAU linemen were trying to cut back on overthinking and be more aggressive. The team was still searching for its first win of the year after two season-opening losses against ranked teams.
The offensive line has turned things around in the Owls’ past three games, and Noel brings a forceful dynamic FAU had been lacking this season in the front line.
“‘Nasty’ is the word I would use,” Noel said about how he’d describe his style of play. “I’m definitely very physical. Sometimes that can give me some issues.
“Sometimes I can be out of control with my technique, and that’s something I’m definitely working on. But I’m very aggressive.”
Noel’s aggressiveness is what
caught the attention of the Owls. It’s one of his standout characteristics, says FAU coach Lane Kiffin.
“He’s a physical, tough kid,” Kiffin said. “[He’s an] old-school type of player. He’s got a nasty side to him, which we don’t necessarily have a lot of up front. We have a lot of really nice guys, so it’s really good to have that.
“It helps when your other players see it. There’s a lot to the mental side of the game about how you physically dominate someone and what they see on film before they play you.”
With a three-game winning streak under the Owls’ belts, Kiffin said the bye week came at a bad time from a momentum standpoint. But for a player such as Noel, who’s been on the roster and practicing for about a month, these past two weeks have been vital.
Kiffin expects Noel to contribute this season. The redshirt junior, who has two seasons of eligibility left, made his FAU debut in the Owls’ 42-7 victory against Wagner on Sept. 21.
FAU offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. said the bye week was huge for Noel. Kiffin added that Noel has gained a better understanding of the team’s offense and gotten a lot of reps in practice.
“Our offense is very cerebral.” starting quarterback Chris Robison said. “You have to know a lot of things. Him being able to pick it up and being able to play on Saturday, it’s a really big deal and people definitely notice it.”
Whether it’s as a starter or rotational offensive linemen, Noel said he’ll fulfill whatever role the team needs from him.
“Obviously I didn’t expect to come into the program and take everything by storm and start bossing people around,” Noel said. “I came to do what was best for the team and what the team needed. If they decide to make me a starter or keep me a two, that’s totally up to them. I’m just going to keep pushing.”