“We just got whipped,” Bowden said. “They didn’t punt until the very end. … They just were better than us tonight, it was clear to see.”
From the start, it seemed FAU would have their way with Akron. FAU led the entire game and the closest Akron would come to taking a lead was in the first quarter after FAU missed a field goal on their first drive. It was to no avail however as Akron would also miss a field goal. From that point on, FAU outscored 50-3. FAU head coach Lane Kiffin spoke after the game about winning this game and how quick the turnaround has been.
“Just an unbelievable day,” Kiffin said. “Can’t imagine it being better, 50-3. This is a special story. These are unique stories. They don’t happen. You don’t come to FAU after winning nine games in three years combined and win 11 games — and not even play close games. … These guys just dominate everybody they play.”
Numerous FAU players broke and set records by the end of game, highlighted by FAU running back Devin Singletary and Quarterback Jason Driskel. Singletary finished with 32 rushing touchdowns on the season, which places him 3rd on the FBS all-time rushing touchdowns in season record list, behind only running backs Barry Sanders and Montee Ball. Driskel passed former FAU quarterback Jaquez Johnson for 3rd all-time on the FAU career passing completions list with 462 completions.
Offensively, FAU was led by Driskel who was the game’s Offensive MVP. He completed 19 of 25 passes for 270 yards and two touchdowns. He also had 13 carries for 67 yards and two touchdowns. Singletary finished with 26 carries for 124 yards and three touchdowns.
FAU shut down the Akron offense, holding them to 146 yards of total offense. As a team, FAU had five sacks and 11 tackles for a loss. The defense was led by the Defensive MVP, linebacker Azee Al-Shaair who had 13 tackles and one sack.
In addition to winning the bowl game, it was reported that Kiffin has agreed to a 10-year contract extension with FAU heading into the game. Kiffin spoke briefly about it after the game.
“It was a neat day,” said Kiffin. “It was the University saying that they are excited about what is going on and we believe in what you are doing. I wasn’t expecting President Kelly (FAU’s President) to do that. We couldn’t be more ecstatic.”
With this bowl game victory, FAU finishes the season with an 11-3 record and a Conference USA Championship.
