2013 Week 12

HATTIESBURG, MISS. -- Florida Atlantic (3-7, 3-4) had just kicked a field goal to only be down by 1 with 2:01 left in the game.

A 96 yard kickoff return touchdown by Justin Sims would save his team from the Owls' rally.

Southern Miss (5-5, 4-2) would force turnovers on down at their own 37 and after two kneels the Golden Eagles stormed the field in victory.

This loss ensures no bowl games for Florida Atlantic, as the team falls to 3-7 on the season.

"We might not head to a bowl game this season. But we still can and need to finish this season strong." Said head coach Greg Patterson.

The Owls will play their final two games at home against New Mexico State and rival Florida International. Both games are very winnable for the Owls, as along with FAU, NMSU and FIU are struggling.

Southern Miss started the game fast and had a 21-3 point lead at the end of the first quarter. But a touchdown by Antonio Washington and Marcus Cunningham catching a 21 yard touchdown pass from Stephen Curtis with only 0:09 left in halftime; made it only a 28-17 point ball game.

At end of the half both teams offenses were clicking. Both teams had couple of turnovers, but that didn't stop them from gaining a lot of yardage. Florida Atlantic 316 yards and Southern Miss had 354 yards.

The Owls would end having have nearly 100 yards more of total offense than USM, with 551 to 469 and having 4 more first downs.

The second half was dominated by the Owls defense giving up no points to the offense. The only points were by the kickoff return in the final two minutes. FAU forced three in row three and outs in the start of the second half.

After a huge run by Jonathan Wallace, Antonio Washington found the end-zone for a second time this time by a 20 yard run.

Washington's big day would be ended shortly after, however. On the team's second possession in the third quarter Washington would go down with a torn pectoral, and he will miss the remained of the season.

After that the Owl's offense couldn't do anything when they got inside USM's 50.

Curtis was harrassed all day, but still found a way to have an alright game. Having career highs in attempts and yards. He was 26 for 52 for 384 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions.

His main targets were receiver William Dukes (7 receptions for 131 yards) and tight end Nexon Dorvilus (7 receptions for 110 yards). Both players had a catch of at least 45 yards, Dukes had a season high for yardage and Dorvilus recorded his third 100+ yard game.

Southern Miss had their way with their running game. Four different players averaged at least 6.6 yards a carry. Leading the rushing game was Jaelin Richard, who rushed for 106 yards and 2 touchdowns off 16 carries.

The leader on the defense was Emmanuel Johnson who was all over the field. Recording 15 tackles and an interception.

This win for Southern Miss has them a win away from becoming bowl eligible and has a chance of heading to the Conference USA championship game if they beat Middle Tennessee in two weeks.