The Panthers become bowl-eligible following their 14-7 victory over the UTSA Roadrunners

The FIU defensive line prepares to engage with the UTSA offensive line on Nov. 4, 2017 at Riccardo Silva Stadium. Nicholas Poblete/Panther Press

By Joshua James/Contributing Writer

 

This past weekend the FIU panthers hosted their homecoming game against the UTSA roadrunners. The Panthers not only won the matchup, 14-7, but the team also became bowl-eligible for the third time in program history.

Their overall record now is (6-2) and (4-1) in Conference USA play and are preparing for conference foe Old Dominion.

The Panthers are now sitting a second place in the C-USA east behind only the FAU owls, which they play on Nov 18 at Boca Raton, Florida. Which will have championship game implications. FIU is now the off to the best start in program history and keep rolling as the team has won three straight games.

FIU started off slow going scoreless in the first half. FIU defense was very stout all game led by Redshirt junior linebacker Treyvon Williams with 13 tackles including 2 sacks.

Treyvon Williams said after the game “I was happy for everyone. Everyone feels great. It was a total team effort, from the strength staff to the coaches to the equipment, it feels great. We are going to use 24 hours to enjoy the win. We’re not working just to be bowl-eligible. We are going to work to win all the rest of the games.”

FIU had a fast start to the second half, as the offense scored two touchdowns within 13 seconds.

Senior quarterback Alex McGough connected with senior wide receiver Thomas Owens for a 13-yard pass touchdown.

On the ensuing kickoff possession, UTSA fumbled which junior safety Shermarke Spence recovered.

This led to McGough to connect with sophomore running back Shawndarrius Phillips, who scored on an 18-yard pass.

FIU Head Coach Butch Davis expressed that he was satisfied with his team’s performance and explained that the team had to overcome adversity.

“Quite a night to say the least,” said Davis. “I can’t express, how proud I am of these kids every single week. Things aren’t always easy for us. One thing we can count on each week is the guts and determination and willingness to pay the price every night.”

FIU will look to pick up their seventh win of the season as they take on the Old Dominion Monarchs this Saturday at Riccardo Silva Stadium on Nov 11, 2017.

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