Florida Atlantic has struggled to convert third downs this season. But has it been because of its production on first and second down?
On average, FAU has been asked to gain 7.6 yards on third down, disrupting the Owls' ability to play call effectively and handcuffing its drives. It has converted on 29.4 percent of its third downs, a rate that ranks 122nd in the nation.
But the Owls' offense has actually been better on first and second down than third down. It averages 5.8 yards per play on first down, 4.9 on second and 3.2 on third.