July 9, 2008

BOCA RATON, FL - Florida Atlantic University's football team continues to add preseason accolades to an already extensive list.

Lindy's, a college football annual, handed out its preseason honors and the Owls were well-represented. Quarterback Rusty Smith was named preseason First Team All-Sun Belt and favored to win the "Most Valuable Player" award, an honor Smith received in 2007. Offensively, receiver Cortez Gent, offensive lineman John Rizzo and tight end Jason Harmon, who suffered a season-ending injury in late April, also earned First Team All-Conference preseason recognition. Defensively, linebacker Frantz Joseph was mentioned as the preseason Sun Belt "Defensive Player of the Year" as well as First Team All-Conference honors. Defensive lineman Jervonte Jackson and defensive backs Tavious Polo and Corey Small join Joseph as first team honorees.

Earning second team preseason recognition was running back Charles Pierre, offensive linemen Brandon Jackson and David Matlock, defensive lineman Robert St. Clair, as well as DiIvory Edgecomb. The Owls also were picked as the favorite to capture and defend the Sun Belt Conference title.


FAU also received acknowledgment from another publication, NationalChamps.net. Jason Harmon, John Rizzo, Frantz Joseph, Corey Small, Rusty Smith, Tavious Polo and Cortez Gent were named to the honorable mention preseason All-American team.

The Owls will open the 2008 campaign on Saturday, August 30 in Austin, Texas where Big 12 opponent Texas awaits. FAU will open home play on Saturday, September 6 at 4 p.m. against the University of Alabama at Birmingham.