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FAU's Smith, Small Named SBC Players of the Week
11/17/2008 12:00:00 AM | Football
Nov. 17, 2008
BOCA RATON, Fla.-Florida Atlantic University junior quarterback Rusty Smith and senior defensive back Corey Small were named Sun Belt Conference (SBC) Players of the Week. Smith and Small were two of many key contributors to FAU's win over the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (5-5, 4-1 SBC). ULL entered the game with an undefeated conference record and atop the SBC standings.
Smith, the preseason SBC Offensive Player of the Year, connected on 17-of-26 passes, gaining 290 yards and scoring four touchdowns with no interceptions. Smith led the Owls into scoring positions on seven of 10 drives he started under center. Smith's stellar night also was marked by setting a school record for most touchdown passes in a career (54).
Small also had a big night against the Ragin' Cajuns, who has the third best rushing attack in the nation and one of the top scoring offenses. Small was second on the team with 10 tackles (five solo, five assisted), had two tackles for a loss and returned an interception four yards. Small's interception is his third of the season and 12th of his career, only three behind the school record.
FAU (5-5, 3-2 SBC) is currently on a four-game win streak, boosting the Owls to third in the SBC standings. FAU will determine its' bowl chances with two upcoming conference games against Arkansas State University (4-5, 2-2) on Saturday, November 22 and Florida International University (4-5, 3-2) on Saturday, November 29. FAU Athletics will host a watch party at Duffy's Grill and Bar, 401 Federal Highway in Deerfield Beach. The game will be available on ESPN Gameplan and on CSS for Comcast subscribers. (channel 32 in the Palm Beach market, channel 63 in the Miami/Dade market and channel 41 in Broward County). Saturday's game may be joined in progress.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008 talk with Head Coach Howard Schnellenberger, defensive lineman Josh Savidge and running back Charles Pierre
Arkansas State much like Lafayette
I think they are very similar. They try to keep the ball away by running it and they get a big play out of it. If we can be strong on first down and not give up big yardage in that situation, like last week, it will be a better percentage for us to get a three and out. Winning on first down will be key to a lot. Obviously, they pass enough to keep you honest. They want to win by keeping the ball and not letting us have it and eventually a touchdown on the board. They lead the conference in time of possession that is what this type of team wants to do to be successful.
Importance of the game for the seniors
I think I can speak for the seniors in that we don't want to leave on a bad note. You can't have a good year last year and not compliment it this year with another bowl. We are leading the team and we need to work to get everybody to the next level.
On Arkansas State
Their defense is good and they are pretty stout. They don't get too many explosive plays, they play pretty good power run football. We just have to hope to get something going whether it is passing or running, just eventually try to find the opening in the defense.
Only Healthy Lineman all season
It has been different to lose (Jermaine) Council and (Robert) St. Clair. They are good friends of mine. I have been battling with them for three years now. It is how they teach us. A man goes down you have to keep going.
Arkansas State is Similar to Lafayette
Yes, they will come to run the football. I think if we come to play, like we did last week, with the intensity we will be fine. They pass a little more so getting a pass rush from the "D" line. I think last week helped us prepare for this week.
Players Mentioned
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