NEC Blitz Game of the Week: Wagner at FAU

This weekend, Wagner takes on Florida Atlantic (FAU) in what promises to be an exciting contest as both teams look to gain momentum. Wagner comes into the matchup with a 2-2 record after a tough loss against Robert Morris but has shown flashes of brilliance on both sides of the ball. Meanwhile, FAU is 1-3 and eager to get back on track after a rough start to their season.

Wagner’s season has been defined by explosive playmaking, especially from standout wide receiver Jaylen Bonelli, who hails from nearby Miami. After a quieter game last week, Bonelli is looking to light up the field in front of his hometown fans. Bonelli leads the Seahawks with 306 receiving yards and four touchdowns, averaging an impressive 16.1 yards per catch. With Bonelli's familiarity with the South Florida area and motivation to perform, expect big things from him in this game.

At quarterback, Jake Cady has been reliable, passing for 423 yards and seven touchdowns with just one interception. His accuracy and decision-making (58.3% completion) will be key to breaking down FAU’s defense. Alongside him, running back Rickey Spruill has been electric on the ground, averaging 7.1 yards per carry, including a long of 60 yards. Look for Wagner to lean on Spruill’s explosiveness to balance their offensive attack.

Defensively, Wagner has been strong. Justin Reilly leads the team with 19 tackles and a sack, while Jalin Justice has also been making his presence felt with 16 tackles. The Seahawks' defense will need to apply pressure early to disrupt FAU's offense, which has struggled in recent games. Wagner’s secondary, with four interceptions on the year, has shown it can capitalize on mistakes. Owls Quarterback Cam Fancher has thrown 4 interceptions on the year, and so they’ll be looking to make the most of their opportunities.

We know that Wagner will be fired up for this game. When we spoke to Head Coach Tom Masella prior to the season, we asked him about what it means to play FBS teams like FAU. He pointed out that there are financial reasons for the program to do so, but also that the players get fired up for their chance to play against the proverbial big boys. He always tells his teams prior to these games that they will never forget them. With Bonelli playing so close to his hometown, he’ll certainly be taking the message to heart.

Florida Atlantic is seeking its second win of the season, coming off a tough loss to UConn. However, the Owls have some key players who can make this matchup difficult for Wagner. Quarterback Fancher’s mobility (212 rushing yards) adds a dimension to FAU's offense that Wagner will need to contain. In the backfield, Zuberi Mobley has been a consistent weapon, rushing for 214 yards and three touchdowns, with a long run of 72 yards this season. FAU’s run game will look to score quickly on Wagner’s stout defense.

On defense, safety CJ Heard leads the Owls with 31 tackles, while Phillip Dunnam and Kazhir Brown have both snagged two interceptions. FAU’s defense struggled last week against UConn, which sets up an intriguing matchup against Wagner’s playmakers like Bonelli and Spruill.

Wagner’s key to victory lies in the hands of Jaylen Bonelli and Rickey Spruill. With Bonelli playing in front of family and friends, expect him to be a focal point in Wagner’s offensive scheme. If Jake Cady can find his star receiver downfield and Spruill continues to pound the ground game, the Seahawks have a real shot at pulling off an upset on the road.

For FAU, controlling the game with their two-headed attack and avoiding turnovers will be crucial. If they can contain Bonelli and Spruill, and limit their own mistakes, they’ll be in a strong position to secure their second win of the season.

This game could come down to who makes the most big plays. Wagner’s explosive offense, paired with Bonelli’s determination to shine in his hometown, might just tip the scales in their favor. This might be a closer game than the experts think.