The good news is the FIU Panthers finally played a game.
The bad news is the delayed season began with a loss.
It may be a long season for the Panthers.
Malik Willis threw two touchdown passes and pilled on 370 yards of offense to lead Liberty to a 36-34 victory over the Panthers on Saturday.
“Since Malik stepped foot on campus, he was always trying to put us under his wing and make us the best we can be,” Flames wide receiver DJ Stubbs shared. “That pushed us to be the best for him. Today I showed that wherever you put the ball, whatever you need from me, I can make it happen for you.”
Stubbs had eight catches for 119 yards, including a stunning one-handed 14-yard touchdown catch in the third quarter for Liberty (2-0).
Willis was 24-of-30 passing for 285 yards and added 85 yards rushing. One of the runs was a 67-yard run that helped set up Alex Barbir’s 27-yard field goal that extended the Flames’ lead to 36-28 with 6:32 remaining.
Capacity was limited to 1,000 at 25,000-seat Williams Stadium because of Covid-19 restrictions and safety. It was the first meeting between the Panthers and Flames.
The Panthers (0-1) appeared a bit rusty. They committed 15 penalties for 127 yards.
The beat goes on for now, pending Covid-19.
Flames are expected to play North Alabama at home.
The Panthers are expected to play host to Middle Tennessee.
