Florida Atlantic Owls vs
Maryland TerrapinsPredictions & Preview

FAU vs. Maryland: Predicting the Outcome of Saturday's College Football Matchup

In anticipation of Saturday's college football matchup between FAU and Maryland, our prediction analyzes the current standings of both teams. FAU, under new head coach Zach Kittley, looks to improve upon a 3-9 season while Maryland aims to bounce back from a 4-8 season after a three-year bowl streak. Stay tuned for our insight on which team may come out victorious in this early-season clash.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Owls +425 | Terrapins -580
• Spread: Owls +14.5 (-110) | Terrapins -14.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 61.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Maryland will win straight-up is 85%.

Florida Atlantic Owls

Florida Atlantic University is heading into the 2025 season with a new head coach, Zach Kittley, who brings with him an Air Raid offensive scheme from his time at Texas Tech and Western Kentucky. Quarterback Caden Veltkamp, the reigning C-USA Offensive Player of the Year, will lead the high-octane offensive overhaul, supported by wide receiver Easton Messer and new transfers JR Wilson Jr. and Quincy Brown. However, the offensive line is a major concern as it is largely rebuilt and struggled with sacks and tackles for loss last season.

Defensively, the Owls are in rebuild mode with only one returning starter, Wendol Philord, in the secondary. The rest of the unit consists of transfers and untested talent, with a lack of continuity and experience, especially in the linebacking corps. The defense will need to focus on generating pressure and relying heavily on special teams, led by punter Logan Lupo and kicker Garrison Smith, to control field position. Early-season matchups will be a test for both the offense and defense to see if they can thrive under pressure.

Maryland Terrapins

Maryland is entering its seventh season under head coach Mike Locksley with a revamped roster after a disappointing 4-8 campaign in 2024. A major focus is the quarterback battle, with freshman Malik Washington challenging for the starting role against Justyn Martin and Khristian Martin. Washington has impressed with his poise and maturity, and new offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton is working to develop a strong offense around him. The team has solid talent at the skill positions, including running back Nolan Ray and receivers Octavian Smith Jr., Jalil Farooq, and Kaleb Webb. The offensive line is rebuilding with new additions like Rahtrel Perry and Isaiah Wright. Defensively, coordinator Ted Monachino aims to improve a unit that struggled last season, with returning leaders like Daniel Wingate and Jalen Huskey. Transfers Dontay Joyner and Jamare Glasker are expected to bolster the secondary, while emerging talents like Trey Reddick and Neeo Avery will need to step up on the defensive front.

Florida Atlantic's Explosive Offense and Special Teams Could Provide Value Against Maryland, +15 Spread Looks Promising

Florida Atlantic +15 presents a strong value proposition in an upcoming competitive matchup. The Owls' dynamic Air Raid offense led by Zach Kittley is well-known, but it is their overall tempo and high play volume that may pose a challenge to Maryland's defense throughout the game. Caden Veltkamp's familiarity with the system and strong chemistry with Easton Messer give FAU an advantage, particularly against a Terps secondary still adjusting roles. Additionally, FAU's special teams, notably punter Logan Lupo and kicker Garrison Smith, possess elite capabilities in field position management. On the other hand, Maryland's defense, now under Ted Monachino, lacks proven ability to generate pressure without blitzing, potentially vulnerable to FAU's quick-release passing game. Given Maryland's historical struggles against AAC opponents and FAU's strong offensive capabilities, +15 seems like a strategic bet, particularly if FAU can maintain control and limit turnovers against Maryland's quarterback uncertainties.

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