Adrian Benitez | Staff Writer
The FIU football team is returning to Pitbull Stadium to face the New Mexico State Aggies on Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024 in Miami.
In their previous game, the Panthers played host to the Sam Houston State Bearkats. FIU took a 10-7 loss in a sluggish affair where the score remained 0-0 until 6:38 in the third quarter, the longest any FBS game has been scoreless this season.
Hoping for a better result in terms of both entertainment and the final outcome, the Panthers will be going up against New Mexico State. At 2-6, the Panthers need a win to remain in contention for a bowl game.
The Aggies are 2-5 heading into this game. They secured a win in their most recent game against Louisiana Tech, a 33-30 overtime squeaker. The victory put a five-game losing streak to an end, and they’ll be looking to start a winning streak this time.
New Mexico’s record can be explained by their stats, particularly on the defensive side. The Aggies give up 37 points and 232.4 rushing yards per game, both worst in the conference. Their 457.3 yards given up per game is second-worst in the conference.
The Aggies passing defense is their one saving grace on that side of the ball, with their 224.9 passing yards given up per game ranking sixth in the conference.
Their offensive stats aren’t anything to write home about either. The Aggies are averaging 20.6 points and 289 yards per game. These stats rank seventh and ninth in the conference respectively.
The Aggies lean heavily toward the run game on offense, evidenced by their 161.9 rushing yards per game, which ranks fourth in the conference. In contrast, their 127.1 passing yards per game is last in the conference.
As of now, it looks like senior quarterback Brandon Nunez will start the contest for the Aggies. He’s only made one appearance in relief so far this season.
In terms of offense, the Aggies’ best weapon is junior running back Seth McGowan. He has 458 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 89 total carries.
On defense, senior defensive end Kale Edwards leads the Aggies with four sacks. Junior linebacker Tyler Martinez leads the team with 53 total tackles.
If the Panthers want to keep their bowl game hopes alive, they should aim to stop the Aggies run game. Their passing game is weak as is, and when you combine that with a new starting quarterback, it points to them leaning on the run.
If the Panthers’ defense can stop the Aggies’ ground game, they can force a tight game and give themselves a chance to come out on top.
Looking to get a much-needed win, the Panthers will return to Pitbull Stadium to face the New Mexico State Aggies on Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. and the game will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network.
Prediction: New Mexico State 17, FIU 7
Follow Adrian Benitez on X: @ab305FIU
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