Big Will Style: William Dukes emerges as FAU's No.1 receiver

Owls sophomore receiver William Dukes had a team-high five catches for 96 yards in last week's 35-14 loss to ULM. Photo courtesy of Ralph Notaro.

By: Rolando Rosa

Owls offensive coordinator Brian Wright is blunt in his assessment of the key ingredient a potent offense needs: dynamic play makers. While the FAU offense is hardly striking fear into opposing defenses, a pleasant surprise has been the play of sophomore wide receiver William Dukes.

Dukes currently leads the team with 23 receptions for 320 yards. Last week at ULM, he recorded a team-high five catches for 96 yards. Dukes is becoming one of quarterback Graham Wilbert's favorite targets.

"Me and Graham got that connection," Dukes said. "We've been working all summer. So he's going to throw those passes so I can go up there and get them."

Dukes explains how the chemistry with Wilbert started last season. He says even though he was a freshman taking limited snaps, Wilbert could already see the potential he had.

Wright would gladly welcome more steady production from Dukes to alleviate the burden the offense is carrying each week to perform.

"We have to be perfect at times in order to execute," Wright says. "And that's a tough way to live on offense."

So far, Dukes has been the only big-play threat on the team. He already has multiple catches of over 40 yards and averages just under 14 yards per reception. Against Georgia, Dukes hauled in a 48-yard catch. He wants fans to know his fearless approach to big games comes from his preparation level throughout the week.

"I had to let people know that it's not just in this conference. I can do it in any conference," Dukes said. "I work hard with my fundamentals so I don't worry about who's in front of me. I worry about what I have to do."

For more Owls news, check out Owl Access and the Sun-Sentinel.

FAU plays at South Alabama on Saturday Oct. 20 at 3:30 p.m.