FIU Triumph in C-USA Opener, Liberty Maintains Undefeated Streak
FIU Panthers Triumph in C-USA Opener; Liberty Flames Maintain Undefeated Streak
The Florida International Panthers (2-3) are looking to even their record as they take on the unbeaten Liberty Flames (4-0) in a Conference USA (C-USA) clash this Tuesday evening. Following a much-needed victory against Louisiana Tech, FIU enters the game hoping to build momentum. Liberty, fresh off a solid home performance against East Carolina, aims to preserve their perfect record. Notably, last season, the Flames overwhelmed the Panthers with a decisive 38-6 victory.
FIU Panthers are Aiming for Consistency
After a shaky start to the season with a record of 1-3, the FIU Panthers are looking to bounce back. Their early-season struggles included a disappointing 45-42 home loss to FCS opponent Monmouth, but a resilient 17-10 win over Louisiana Tech marked a positive turning point. As 2.5-point underdogs, the Panthers showcased their ability to cover the spread in three of their five contests this season.
Sophomore quarterback Keyone Jenkins is emerging as a pivotal player for FIU. He has thrown for at least 281 yards in two of his last three games, amassing a total of 1,104 passing yards with a commendable 9:4 TD-to-INT ratio. Jenkins has displayed the capability to lead a potent offense, which has been somewhat inconsistent—scoring 52 points against Central Michigan but struggling with only 17 points last week.
The Panthers’ rushing attack has been spearheaded by Kejon Owens, who has accumulated 213 rushing yards this season, with at least 50 yards in two games. The receiving corps, featuring standout Eric Rivers (353 receiving yards), provides additional options for Jenkins. The FIU offense averages 328 total yards per game, ranking 80th in the nation.
Defensively, FIU has faced challenges, particularly against high-powered offenses. While they were able to contain LA Tech to just 298 total yards, they previously surrendered 540 yards to Monmouth, highlighting inconsistencies in their defensive performance. The Panthers rank 80th in pass defense and a troubling 110th against the run. They concede an average of 28 points per game, which places them 95th nationally.
Riding the Wave of Undefeated Success
On the other hand, the Liberty Flames have emerged as a formidable opponent, currently sitting undefeated at 4-0. However, the Flames’ schedule has raised some eyebrows, as they have faced a relatively easy slate in the season’s opening month. Despite not covering the spread against teams like New Mexico State and UTEP, Liberty managed a convincing 35-23 victory over East Carolina, showcasing their capability to perform when it matters.
Kaidon Salter, the junior quarterback, has proven to be a reliable leader, throwing for at least 228 yards in three out of four games. With 950 passing yards and an impressive 7:1 TD-to-INT ratio, Salter’s dual-threat ability—adding 131 rushing yards—is a key aspect of the Flames’ offensive strategy. The running game is powered by Quinton Cooley, who has consistently topped 105 rushing yards in every game except one, totaling 371 yards on the ground this season.
The Liberty offense has been productive, averaging 456 total yards per game, and scoring at least 28 points in three of their four contests, ranking them 38th in scoring nationally with an average of 33.5 points per game.
Defensively, the Flames are strong, allowing 24 points or fewer in each game this season, including a mere 10 points to UTEP. They effectively limited East Carolina to 331 total yards and excel in run defense, ranking 38th in the nation. Liberty’s pass defense is decent but ranks 58th overall, suggesting that there are opportunities for opposing teams to exploit.
Conclusion
As the Panthers and Flames meet, the game promises to be a thrilling contest. FIU needs a strong showing from Jenkins and their offensive line to counter Liberty’s dynamic attack. For Liberty, maintaining their unbeaten streak will hinge on the consistency of Salter and the effectiveness of Cooley on the ground. Both teams will be looking to solidify their positioning in the C-USA standings as they head into the heart of the season.
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