Peter Holland Jr./ Contributing Writer
Expectations are higher than ever for the Panther’s football team as this season will not be easy. Their first two games are away and they only have five home games this year. With the majority of the starters back such as Alex McGough, Jonnu Smith, Richard Leonard, Michael Wakefield and more players to come to make a statement.
Now the question is can this team stay consistent and close out games when they need too? Can they at least get into a 2-0 start before their first home game against North Carolina Central on Sept. 19? If so, the Panthers have a chance to finish the season with a winning record for the first time under Head Coach Ron Turner. For now, all eyes are on opening night against the UCF Golden Knights.
The Panthers would be making a big statement if they defeat a well respected team like UCF, who finished 9-4 last season. The Golden Knights are known to be a discipline team led by Head Coach George O’Leary. The Panther’s offensive line has to be in sync right away as they are going against UCF’s front four led by all AAC defensive lineman and sack leader Thomas Niles.
At 6 feet 2 inches and 266 pounds, Niles led the team in sacks (6.5). Although undersized for an average defensive end, he’s quick enough to come off the ball during the snap and strong enough to bull rush any linemen that gets in his way.
The Panthers returning defense must also have to be focus on UCF’s rushing attack led by William Stanback, who at 6 feet 1 inch and 225 pounds is a power runner that is known to lower his shoulders and putting defenders on their backs. He finished last season rushing for 659 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Panther’s defense will be put to the test during red zone plays, which is where he’s more effective. Its a young offensive team with some new faces led by returning quarterback Justin Holmon. This could really set the tone for the Panthers if they can score early and quiet down the crowd at Citrus Field.
The Panthers face UCF Thursday night, Sept. 3 at Citrus Field in Orlando. The game will be televised on CBS Sports at 6p.m.
"Citrus Field"??? Did you mean Citrus Bowl? Both are incorrect. The game is played at Bright House Network Stadium on the campus of UCF.
We’re the UCF Knights, We dropped the Golden over 8 years ago, Our QB’s last name is Holman, not Holmon.
For FIU’s sake, I hope the football team did more homework on their 1st game than this writer did!