BOCA RATON, FLORIDA - The winless Florida Atlantic Owls rank last in Division 1-AA in rushing and total offense. They're averaging less than a yard per running play, and they've been outscored by an average of 22 points per game. <br>
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Coach Howard Schnellenberger's team is a long way from good, which is a place he has been before. <br>
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His first three teams at Louisville won a total of eight games before he revived that program. His first team with the Miami Hurricanes went 5-6, and four years later he led them to their first national championship. <br>
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Now Schnellenberger faces perhaps his toughest challenge. A 61-14 loss last week to Division 1-A Connecticut left the Owls 0-8 in their second season. <br>
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With losses mounting, Schnellenberger's players -- many of whom were lured to Florida Atlantic by his name and fame -- still have faith in his reputation. <br>
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Defensive end Ramon Rickards said, ``He talks to us and keeps us into practice. He's not one of those coaches that stays up here and watches from the balcony. He's right in the middle of the mix. He knows that we're going to be something good.'' <br>
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Saturday's homecoming game against Morris Brown (1-8) is Florida Atlantic's best remaining chance to salvage a win. The season concludes with games against 1-AA power Eastern Illinois (6-2) and Florida International (4-5). <br>
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The Owls won four games in their inaugural season in 2001, but this year injuries and departures have depleted the young team's roster.
