What is the saying? Seize the day?
The FIU Panthers can seize the day, even better the Conference USA East title. There is a logjam to get to the top. The Panthers have three remaining vital games, all at home to give them a chance at the CUSA East title.
FAU, Marshall and the next game hosting Middle Tennessee will all be at home for homecoming week.
Panthers are coming off a 55-9 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff in which they scored 48 straight points in the game. James Morgan was 9 of 14 passing in the game, but four went for touchdowns covering more than 70 yards.
“The energy in practice all week has been great,” Panthers wide receiver Austin Maloney said. “We are locked in and excited.”
Now after a bye, they are rested and have a favorable schedule for them to seize the day.
On the other side of the field, Middle Tennessee came up with significant wins over Marshall and Florida Atlantic. If they win visiting the Panthers, expect it to be smooth sailing with the tough part of their schedule over.
The Blue Raider defense number one issue is on third downs, and the offensive line is not helping the ground attack, the bright light is Brent Stockstill, and the passing game is doing just enough to carry the offense.
FIU has the offensive talent to pass and run the ball. Panthers play calling will have to have a balance of the two. When the passing game does play well, FIU comes up with its share of big plays. This is where the rest and fresh legs will kick in.
“We come out here, and we all work to be the best we can,” Panthers running back Napoleon Maxwell said. “We have guys that can go in and you see no drop-off, we all have a special thing in our games, when the man is in anything can happen.”
The Panthers might not shut down Stockstill instead hope to contain him, but the lines will be great, and James Morgan will be just good enough to balance out a strong day from the deep rushing attack.
FIU will seize the moment and win 31-24 over Middle Tennessee.
Photo/RomanGaray/WORLDWIDEWEST