Adrian Benitez | Staff Writer
The FIU football team is traveling to face the Jacksonville State Gamecocks on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 in Huntsville, Alabama.
In their previous game, the Panthers recorded a 34-13 win against the New Mexico State Aggies to move to 3-6. The win kept the team’s bowl hopes alive, but now they face the toughest challenge remaining on their schedule.
The Gamecocks are 6-3, having won all of their last six games in a row. Their most previous game against Louisiana Tech went down to the wire, but the Gamecocks ended up prevailing 44-37 in overtime.
In terms of stats, the Gamecocks’ offense is the most prolific in Conference USA in points per game (39.2) yards per game (456.7) and rushing yards per game. (260.9)
Since the start of conference play, the Gamecocks have scored more than 30 points in every game.
The Gamecocks seem to prioritize the run over the pass, with their offense only recording 195.8 passing yards per game, seventh in the conference.
Jacksonville State’s defense is more middle-of-the-pack, allowing 29.2 points per game and 407.7 yards per game. These statistics rank sixth and seventh in the conference respectively.
Their pass and run defense are around the same level. The Gamecocks allow 185.8 rushing yards per game and 221.9 passing yards per game, both seventh in the conference.
Though their overall defensive stats aren’t amazing, the Gamecocks are notable for leading the conference with 11 interceptions.
Jacksonville State’s prolific rushing attack is mostly manifested through senior running back Tre Stewart and senior quarterback Tyler Huff. They make up two of the top three highest rushers in the conference.
As a passer, Huff has completed 119 of his 173 passes for 1,701 passing yards, 10 touchdowns and five interceptions.
Senior safety Antonio Carter II leads the team in total tackles, with 74. This also ranks as the second highest in the entire conference.
Sophomore cornerback Geimere Latimer and freshman safety Zecheriah Poyser each have three interceptions on the season, tying for second highest in the conference.
In order for the Panthers to win this one on the road, the defense will need to play at its best for the whole 60 minutes. Jacksonville State has one of the best rushing offenses in the nation, so the Panthers defense needs to play up to the challenge.
Looking to keep their bowl hopes alive, the Panthers are traveling to face the Jacksonville State Gamecocks on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024 in Huntsville, Alabama.
Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. and the game will be broadcast on ESPN+.
Prediction: Jacksonville State 38, FIU 20
Follow Adrian Benitez on X: @ab305FIU
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