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New FIU head coach Butch Davis signed the best recruiting class in recent memory for FIU as the Panthers signed the fourth best recruiting class in Conference USA, with 12 three star recruits set to call Miami their next home. We will take a look at the new roster and do a position-by-position breakdown of what the roster looks like going into Spring Camp.
Previously: Quarterback, Running Back
Returning contributors: Thomas Owens (SR), 47 Catches for 652 yards with 7 touchdowns. Stantley Thomas (SO), 35 Catches for 485 yards with 1 touchdown. Darrius Scott (SO), 22 Catches for 291 yards with 0 touchdowns. Austin Maloney (SO), 20 Catches for 185 yards with 2 touchdowns.
Incoming recruits: Bryce Singleton (2 Star) & Jacob White (2 Star)
What we know: Since shinning against Indiana two years ago Thomas Owens has been a very productive wide receiver for the Panthers. But with Jonnu Smith off to the NFL he will now be the focal point of FIU’s passing attack.
If he adjusts well being the go-to-guy he could be in store for a huge senior season. Rich Skrosky’s offense at Ball State was really pass heavy. If that translates to Miami Owens could take a few records with him before he leaves.
Stantley Thomas might be the biggest benefactor in Skrosky’s offense as his speed is a perfect fit for a spread offense. Thomas was the home run hitter in 2016 and this year we could see him more involved in the offense with jet sweeps and quick screens.
Sophomores Darrius Scott and Austin Maloney were also very productive as freshman and could take another step up. It’s not a stretch to say that in two years FIU could be stacked at wide receiver with Thomas, Scott and Maloney.
Former FAU commit Jacob White gives FIU another speedy wideout along with Bryce Singleton. Given the depth, both of these guys could redshirt.
Final thought: FIU boasts a lot of wide receiver depth with Thomas Owens leading the way. With a good rushing attack and a capable quarterback in Alex McGough, I think this position group will be the difference between a good FIU offense and a great one.
Position grade: B. I wanted to give a B+ but I’m in wait-and-see mode with the trio of sophomores behind Owens. With that said, all signs point to the passing attack being at the very least, just as productive as it was last year.