The FIU Panthers’ next game is scheduled for October 16, 2024, against UTEP at 9 p.m. This marks a significant moment in the season, as Tuesday’s match was the Panthers’ first game outside of South Florida since their season opener against Indiana on August 31.
During the game at Liberty, which took place on October 8, FIU faced a challenging stretch, being part of four consecutively televised weeknight matchups throughout October. This game also marked the Panthers’ second visit to Liberty, their first since 2020.
The contest featured a notable turnover exchange early in the second half. Liberty fumbled the ball inside the one-yard line, which was recovered by FIU, thanks to a forced fumble by Giovanni Davis and recovery by Travion Barnes. Junior linebacker Barnes had a standout performance, achieving a career-high 16 tackles, along with two sacks and three tackles for loss. He has led the team in tackles in each of the last five games, with double-digit stops recorded in four of those outings.
On the offense side, junior wide receiver Dean Patterson set a career record with six receptions for 90 yards. Liberty came into the game with a commanding 15-game regular-season winning streak, the longest in the FBS.
FIU’s loss in overtime marked the end of their three-game winning streak in such scenarios, bringing their all-time overtime game record to 8-7.
In the recent game, a late one-yard touchdown run by sophomore quarterback helped the Panthers tie the game at 24-24, forcing overtime after overcoming a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter. Liberty ultimately won with a nine-yard touchdown run by Kaidon Salter on their first overtime possession, following a recovered fumble from FIU.
Notably, the Panthers executed a 61-yard drive to equalize the score, involving critical catches from wide receiver Rivers, which was crucial for setting them up for the game-tying score. Despite trailing 24-10 in the fourth quarter, FIU scored twice in quick succession to push the game to overtime.
The Panthers’ performance was highlighted by a strong ground game from Liberty, which amassed 281 rushing yards. FIU will complete their two-game road stretch against UTEP in El Paso’s Sun Bowl on October 16, with broadcast coverage provided by CBS Sports Network. For more updates on FIU Football, fans can follow their official social media accounts and visit the FIU Athletics Online Ticket Office for ticket information.