The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

PANTHER "D" DOMINATES!!!

Florida Atlantic Owls at Florida International Golden Panthers
Jan 1,	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Florida Atlantic Owls ((1-1))	0	0	0	0	0
Florida International Golden Panthers ((2-1))	7	14	10	10	41

Team Stats Comparison
	FAU	FIU
Total Offense	202	414
Rushing Yards	43	117
Passing Yards	149	293
First Downs	7	19
Punt Return Yards	13	31
Kick Return Yards	32	28
Total Yards	247	473
Turnovers	2	0
3rd Down Conversion	2/13	7/14
4th Down Conversion	0/4	1/1
2-Point Conversion
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	0-0-0%	3-1-80%
Penalties	4-40	7-42
Possession Time	23:12	36:48

GAME RECAP

Coach Miller improves to 2-0 in the Shula Bowl as the FIU Panthers take care of business against the FAU Owls as they win their 3rd straight improving to 2-0 in CUSA play.

FIU dominated on both sides of the ball limiting FAU to just 43 yds on the ground picking off FR QB Barry Pappoe (77 Ovr) twice and holding the Owls to 0/4 on 4th Down tries as the FIU "D" pitches a shutout for the first time in the Coach Miller era.

It was another solid day for SR QB Keyone Jenkins who completes 73% of his pass's well throwing 2 1st half touchdowns to put FIU up 14-0. After that the Panthers, Jenkins would add a 30 yd TD run late in the 2nd Quarter to extend the lead to (21-0) at the half.

FIU opened up the 2nd half with the ball, as Cash Jones breaks a 23 yd run as the Panther rushing attack went off. for a combined 52 yds on the drive as Cole Tabb takes it in from 7 yds out to make it (28-0). FIU would extend the lead with a Glennon FG to make it (31-0) going into the 4th. The Panthers would open up the 4th picking off Pappoe for his 1st INT finishing their drive with a 1 yd TD by FB Antonio Ferguson to make it (38-0). Pappoe's 2nd INT would set up another Glennon FG from 48 yds out. Glennon had another opportunity add a FG from 48 yds to finish the game but missed.


Pappoe finished the game 16/35 (45%) for 149 yds with the 2 INT's.

KEY PANTHERS

QB K. Jenkins-25/34 (73%) 293 yds 2 TD, 10 carries 58 yds 1 TD
RB C. Tabb-15 carries 32 yds 1 TD
RB C. Jones-1 carry 23 yds
WR E. Cortez-7 rec 89 yds
WR K. McNeal-6 rec 76 yds
WR V. Jones Jr-5 rec 56 yds 1 TD
TE D. Naanee-5 rec 56 yds 1 TD
CB M. Clark-1 INT
OLB P. Courtney Jr-1 INT
PK- I. Glennon-2/3 FG's

UP NEXT

The Panthers will put their 3 game winning streak on the line in Week 4 as they host #16 (2-1) Boise State.

The Broncos kicked off their season with a loss to Oregon (45-29) in Week 1 in Eugene before bouncing back with a (38-34) win over Memphis at home and a (43-19) win in Fort Collins against Colorado State.

[redsox907]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

Couple of dominant wins after some real barnburners to open the season.

I would have probably done the same thing against Miami, you play to win the game!!

Still, sitting at 3-1 is right where you want to be early.

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

PANTHERS PULL OFF THE UPSET!!!!

Boise State Broncos at Florida International Golden Panthers
Jan 1,	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	OT	SCORE
#16 Boise State Broncos ((2-1))	7	7	0	7	3	24
Florida International Golden Panthers ((3-1))	7	7	0	7	6	27

Team Stats Comparison
	BSU	FIU
Total Offense	309	388
Rushing Yards	141	70
Passing Yards	168	309
First Downs	12	16
Punt Return Yards	17	10
Kick Return Yards	27	28
Total Yards	353	426
Turnovers	1	1
3rd Down Conversion	5/11	9/16
4th Down Conversion
2-Point Conversion
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	2-0-100%	2-0-100%
Penalties	7-55	13-94
Possession Time	26:40	48:20

GAME RECAP

Coach Miller get's his first upset over a Top-25 ranked opponent in his career and it will be a memorable one as he defeats his former team..

Boise State opened up the game scoring quickly on the first drive of the game as SR QB Maddux Madsen (88 Ovr) completes a 38 yd TD pass to SO WR Cyrus Wallace (80 Ovr).

FIU though fires right back as Keyone Jenkins fires the first of his (3) TD's on the day hitting Liberty transfer Victor Jones Jr on a 32 yd scoring strike to tie the game (7-7).

Still tied (7-7) as we head to the 2nd Quarter, Madsen and the Broncos go back to the air again as Maddux hits Wallace a 2nd time for a 18 yd score to make it (14-7).

FIU follows the same game plan as Jenkins completes 5/5 pass's including a 28 yd touchdown to Kyle McNeal to tie the game (14-14)..

FIU would have a chance to take the lead just before the half, but RB Cole Tabb would cough up his first fumble of the season as BSU takes over and runs out the clock.

FIU opened up the 2nd half with the ball but failed to pick up the 1st down as the Bronco Defense continues to stuff the Panther rushing attack. Boise State however couldn't do anything on offense either as both teams combine for 5 punts in the 3rd Quarter leaving it tied (14-14) as we head to the 4th.

BSU would take the lead with 6 minutes to play in the 4th as Maddux Madsen throws his 3rd TD of the day hitting SR RB Jambres Dubar out of the backfield for a 3 yd score to make it (21-14) but with 3:38 to play FIU ties the game up yet again as Jenkins uses a similar play finding RB TJ Snowden out of the backfield for a 11 yd score making it (21-21).

Boise State would switch things up and go to their ground game as Dubar and Sire Gaines combine for 33 yds but facing a 3rd and 8, Madsen's pass intended for TE Austin Terry drops to the ground as BSU is forced to punt.

FR Randy Albight's punt is perfect as he drills it 52 yds pinning the Panthers on the 4yd line with 1:12 to play.

Armed with 2 timeouts Coach Miller knew all they need was to get in Issac Glennon a chance from inside 50. Jenkins first pass to Jones goes for 8 yds giving the Panther some breathing room. FIU hurries to the line not wanting to use a timout, Jenkins calls the play at the line and try's to hit Dominick Naanee over the middle but the ball is in and out of the Freshman's hands bringing up a 3rd and 2. Face with the decision to pass or run, Coach Miller calls Cam Todd's # and the Stanford transfer delivers picking up the 1st down but down to 52 seconds, BSU is forced to burn one of their timeouts.

Jenkins next 2 pass's were completely off the mark bringing up a 3rd and 10. Jenkins drops back and throws to SO WR Enrique Cortez right as he cuts for the sideline but the ball bounces off his hands and drops to the ground bringing up 4th and 10.. FIU had no choice as the punt the ball away and hope for Overtime.

Maddux Madsen wasn't going to wait for OT though as the SR QB comes out firing but SO SS Jaden Williams picks off the pass forcing OT.

FIU would win the toss and elect to to play Defense, and the Panther "D" comes up with one of the biggest stops of their life as they force the Broncos to settle for a FG making it (24-21).

Coach Miller not wanting to take any chances makes sure to remind Jenkins not to force anything and the Senior QB delivers as he scrambles for a 8 yd gain on the first play. Facing a 2nd and 2, Jenkins calls the play.. "Him 48.. Him 48.. The ball is snapped and Jenkins fires hitting his star FR TE Dominick Naanee on a out pattern. Naanee turns and heads for the endzone but the Bronco D saves the touchdown forcing him out at the 4 yd line.

Facing a 1st and goal, FIU hands off to Cole Tabb 3 times before he punches in the game winning TD..

After the game, Jenkins was asked about his play calll "Him 48"

"Well it probably won't work anymore, but "Him" is a designation we use for plays where the ball is going to "Dom" (Dominick Naanee)... We heard one of the announcer say in our game against Miami, after his 9 receptions for 217 yds that it looked like our Offense gameplan was to just throw it to "Him" every time and we liked it, so it stuck"

KEY PLAYERS STATS

QB K. Jenkins-26/39 (66%) 309 yds 3 TD, 9 carries 26 yds
RB C. Tabb-17 carries 48 yds 1 TD 1 Fumble, 2 rec 16 yds
RB C. Jones-1 carry 3 yds
RB TJ Snowden-2 rec 17 yds 1 TD
WR K. McNeal-8 rec 121 yds 1 TD
WR E. Cortez-4 rec 49 yds
WR V. Jones Jr-2 rec 37 yds 1 TD
TE D. Naanee-6 rec 58 yds
TE W. Gutierrez-2 rec 11 yds
SS J. Williams-1 INT

QB M. Madsen-15/30 (50%) 168 yds 3 TD 1 INT,5 carries 52 yds
RB J. Dubar-9 carries 61 yds
RB S. Gaines-9 carries 28 yds
WR C Wallace-4 rec 81 yds 2 TD
WR D Crummey-2 rec 28 yds
WR J. Agnew-1 rec 11 yds
TE A. Terry-4 rec 33 yds
TE M. Wagner-1 rec 8 yds


UP NEXT

With the win FIU get's it's first ever Top-25 victory and with it and their 4 straight win debuts in the Top-25 Poll at #21 ..

With the loss BSU drops to #22 and is now (2-2) on the season. The Broncos will most likely need to win out if they have any chance at making a 3rd straight playoff appearance.

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

Couple of dominant wins after some real barnburners to open the season.

I would have probably done the same thing against Miami, you play to win the game!!

Still, sitting at 3-1 is right where you want to be early.

Yeah the funny thing was it was actually the CPU's call. I honestly lost track of what the score was for a minute cause I was so excited I scored, I thought I had to convert the 2 point play to tie the game.. Had I realized I actually probably would've considered kicking it and playing OT. The crappy part was the pass was perfect my WR just dropped the ball. It was like the CPU wanted me to lose.

Then against USF, I did it again. I knew I was up by 22 so I knew I wanted to get a chance to see Dees in action because he is most likely going to be my starting QB next year as Recruiting has not gone well in terms of landing my next star QB. He was solid on the first drive throwing a touchdown, but then somehow I couldn't get a 1st down after getting like 35 of them earlier in the game and USF all of a sudden is knocking on the door and is down by just 1 point. I was like what the frick just happened..

I just got done posting the BSU game and it was a nail bitter. I also just got done playing the Marshall game and it was even worse. I won't spoil it but again lets just say the CPU was pulling out all the stops to try and derail my season..

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

THE MIAMI MIRLCE PART II

Marshall Thundering Herd at Florida International Golden Panthers
Oct 3, 2026	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Marshall Thundering Herd ((1-3))	0	24	0	12	36
Florida International Golden Panthers ((4-1))	14	0	7	16	37

Team Stats Comparison
	MRSH	FIU
Total Offense	495	584
Rushing Yards	124	75
Passing Yards	350	509
First Downs	22	31
Punt Return Yards	24	0
Kick Return Yards	69	211
Total Yards	588	795
Turnovers	1	5
3rd Down Conversion	6/20	2/11
4th Down Conversion	1-1	2-2
2-Point Conversion	0-1	0-1
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	2-0-66%	2-0-33%
Penalties	3-18	3-30
Possession Time	23:12	16:48

GAME RECAP

In 2018, the Miami Dolphins pulled off a upset win over thew New England Patriots in a comeback that was dubbed the "Miami Miracle". Today the Florida International Panthers found themselves in the need a a Miracle Part II as they took on (1-3) Marshall. The Thundering Heard opened up this season with a disappointing loss to Penn State in Week 1 but rebounded with a big win over Rice in Week 2 before losing their last 2..


FIU jumped out to a early (14-0) lead as Keyone Jenkins continues to put up Video game type #'s with a pair of touchdowns to Freshman TE Dominick Naanee who continues to play at a National Award winning pace.

But a fumble that is returned 33 yds for a score along with a pair of INT's by Jenkins in the 2nd Quarter unleashed a stampede of scoring by the Herd as Marshall takes the (24-14) lead into the half..

FIU opened up the 2nd half with another Jenkins to Naanee touchdown to cut the lead to (24-21) but later in the 3rd Quarter when given a chance to tie the game SO PK Issac Glennon miss's a 51 yd FG as Marshall heads into the 4th Quarter with the lead.

Jenkin's 3rd INT of the day was a costly one as Marshall once again turns the turnover into points as SR Cole Pennington (79 Ovr) throws his 3rd TD of the day to make it (30-21). With the 9 point lead Marshall leaves their offense on the field to try for the 2 point conversion but the Panthers "D" comes up with the stop.

Down 9 FIU knew they need a quick score but Jenkins is picked off again for a 4th time and the Herd makes him pay as Marshall extends their lead to (33-21) as FR PK Spencer Byler (78 Ovr) drills his 2nd FG.

Now trailing by 12, it looked like FIU stay in the Top-25 was going to be short lived unless they could find a spark and they got one in a big way as Cash Jones receives the kickoff and takes it 96 yds to the house for the biggest kick return in Panther history making it (33-27)... Down by 6, Coach Miller elects to try for a 2pt play but the ball is in and out of JuJu Lewis hands as the game stays a 6 point game.

Marshall who had played mistake free football all day though made a big one with 4 minutes to play, Pennington fumbles as SO DE Robert Williams comes up not only with the forced fumble by but the recovery as well.

Jenkins unfazed by his early turnovers, goes straight back to the air and hits RB Cole Tabb out of the backfield on a 32 yd pass as FIU ties the game (33-33). FIU kicks the XPT making it (34-33) with 2:28 to play in the game.

Not ready to give up Marshall, marches down field setting up what they hoped to be a game winning FG with 28 seconds to play as Byers connects from 23 yds out making it (36-34) but FIU still armed with 1 timout sets up a 56 yd FG with 1 second to play for Issac Glennon.. Glennon 0/5 on kicks from beyond 50 yds in his career hits the kick perfectly with room to spare as FIU pulls of the comeback win and keeps dreams of a playoff spot alive.

Coach Miller

"We have watched Issac hit multiple kicks from 60 yds in practice so we knew he had the leg for it, but wind conditions and field placement so far hasn't been in his favor.. Things just lined up perfectly where he had a pretty straight shot right at it and he delivered... The kick was huge but we can't discount Jenkins either. Despite one of his worst games via turnovers he came out and put us in a place to still win the game."

KEY PANTHERS

QB K. Jenkins-29/53 (54%) 509 yds 4 TD 4 INT, 1 fumble
RB C. Tabb-24 carries 62 yds, 2 rec 57 yds 1 TD
RB C. Jones-2 carries 3 yds, 6 KR's for 181 yds including the 96 yd TD
FB A. Ferugson- 5 carries 18 yds
WR E. Cortez-6 rec 114 yds
WR K. McNeal-4 rec 94 yds
WR V. Jones Jr-5 rec 74 yds
TE D. Naanee-11 rec 163 yds 3 TD

QB C. Pennington-30/51 (58%) 350 yds 3 TD 1 Fumble
RB A. Turner-20 carries 128 yds, 6 rec 45yds
WR T. Chapman-4 rec 105 yds 1 TD
WR M. Williams-8 rec 71 yds 2 TD
WR A. Mays-6 rec 56 yds
WR B. Mayweather-3 rec 40 yds


UP NEXT

FIU moves up to #19 in the rankings with the win. Having won 5 straight FIU will now have a "Bye" in Week 6...

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

#1 (5-0) Texas A&M will host Arkansas in Week 7
#2 (5-0) Clemson will host Goergia Tech in Week 7
#3 (5-0) Florida will host #9 Tennessee in Week 7
#4 (6-0) Oklahoma "Just beat Texas 37-35 in Red River Shootout"
#5 (5-0) Kansas State, beat TTU (35-21) will play @ Utah in Week 7
#6 (4-1) Georgia will host #23 South Carolina in Week 7
#7 (4-1) UNC will play @ Syracuse in Week 7
#8 (5-0) Cincinnati will host Army in Week 7
#9 (5-1) Tennessee just beat Kentucky will play @ #3 Florida
#10 (4-1) Miami just beat Virginia now hosts Louisville
#11 (6-0) Pitt just beat Illinois now will host Wisconsin
#12 (4-1) Oregon. Was #2 but lost to Wisconsin. Now will host Stanford.
#13 (4-1) Tulane. Just beat Fresno (45-3) now will host #18 BSU
#14 (3-2) Alabama coming off a "Bye" will host Vanderbilt
#15 (4-2) Texas will have a "Bye' after losing to Oklahoma
#16 (4-1) USC. Just beat Indiana now will play @ Cal
#17 (4-1) LSU. just beat Ole Miss (32-28) now will play @ Miss State
#18 (4-2) Boise State. Just beat UNLV (38-13) but now faces a must win against #13 Tulane.
#19 (5-1) FIU. The Panthers moved up 2 spots despite being on a "Bye" in Week 6. They will play @ (4-3) James Madision in Week 7
#20 (3-2) Maryland. Just beat New Mexico (34-14) will host West Virginia in Week 7
#21 (5-0) Washington. Just beat Miinnesota (40-21) will host Nebraska in Week 7
#22 (4-2) Michigan State. Just beat UCLA (38-33) Has a "Bye in Week 7.
#23 (4-1) South Carolina. Was #8 before losing (33-27) to Arkansas. They will now play @ #6 Georgia.
#24 (4-1) Ohio State.. Just beat Cal (56-20) will host Michigan in Week 7.
#25 (6-0) Purdue. Coming off a "Bye" they will host Middle Tennesee.

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

Recruiting
Despite the Panthers on the field success, Coach Miller and his staff havn't had much luck so far with early signings, despite several players making visits to the campus in Week 5's win over Marshall and even coming this past week during the "Bye"

So far only 3* DE Martin Phenix (#1855 Overall/#215 FL/#59 DE) from Groveland FL has committed and he was a instant committ as soon as he got a scholarship offer. Listed at 6'2 278lbs. Phenix could move to DT next year with all 3 current DT's set to graduate.

FIU was also hit with a huge blow as 4* QB Recruit Cassius Neilon (#252 Overall/#26 FL/#21 QB) from Lakeland FL turns down FIU and gives his Verbal to Florida.

Coach Miller

"We basically put all our recruiting resources in on Neilon and were 100% committed in trying to land him as KJ's replacement. This just now proves we need to get Clayton Dees more PT as it looks like he will be our starting QB next year and potentially in 2027 as well."

With their 4* QB off the table, FIU has turned it's attention to a pair of other 4*..

4* WR Ryan Kunaszyk (#121 Overall/#11 FL/#22 WR). Listed at 6'3 204lbs from Vernon FL, Kunaszyk could give whoever is playing QB a big target next season.

Miller

"To be honest we love our WR room right now and we have some talent currently redshirting, but when you see someone with the talent and skills that Ryan has, you can't pass them up (93 speed, 80 catch, 86 catch in traffic, 86 spectacular catch) 95 jump"

Well landing Kunaszyk would be a luxury, landing 4* RB Tavon Logan (#344 Overall/#35 FL/#33 RB) is major need. Listed at 5'10 231 lbs, Logan would be a huge additional to the goaline pack and a great change of pace option to go with Todd next season replacing Cash Jones as the team's #2 RB.


Coach Miller

"We actually targeted 2 pretty high profile RB's to start the year as 4* Eric Valenzuela (#197 Overall/#20FL/#19RB) also had us in his Top-4 to start the year, well we have moved to #2 on his current list of schools, Miami is still leading by a long ways. Like most Miami kids who want to stay local. The Hurricanes are always everyone's #1 option and we sadly get left to play 2nd Fiddle"

JENKINS LOOKS TO MAKE HISTORY.

SR QB Keyone Jenkins has already cemented his name in the record books for Passing TD's in a game, as well as Passing TD's in a season and Passing Yards in a season, but now he is looking to finish out his career by putting his name in the school record book 2 more times for Most Yards and TD's in a Career, as well as make a push to get his name on some CUSA records as well..

GET HIM THE BALL

We are still 3 weeks away before the Media releases it's first look at this year's potential ESPY Awards, but right now I would like to think that FR TE Dominick Naanee is a front runner for the "Best TE" in the country.

Naanee currently leads the Panthers in receptions (42) Yards (707) and TD's (7) through 5 games. Even if he just doubles those #'s over the course of the next 7-9 games, Naanee will cement his name into the record books and become one of FIU's greatest players to ever wear a Panther uniform.

Coach Miller

"Alot of people don't know this but Dominick comes from NFL pedigree. His Dad "Legedu" played at Boise State. After coming as a QB, Legedu lost out on the starting job in 2004 to Jared Zabransky and switched to WR/TE. The moved turned out to be a blessing as the San Diego Chargers drafted him in the 5th round of the of the 2007 Draft.. His Dad went on to have a 6 year career in the league including his final season in 2012 for the Dolphins where he then settled down and retired raising Dom to follow in his footsteps"

THE QUEST FOR 1000

Well it's safe to say that Naanee should surpass 1000 yds this season unless a injury happens, FIU still has 3 WR's who through 5 games are on pace to break it as well.

JR Kyle McNeal is following up his record setting year last year (80 rec 1337 yds) with another strong season posting 30 rec for 566 yds and 4 TD's so far.

Liberty Transfer Victor Jones Jr is finding his grove posting 32 rec for 417 yds and 4 scores as well.

RS FR Enrique Cortez the star of the Spring game has been pretty outstanding so far with 31 rec for 461 yds and 2 scores.

PANTHERS STRIKE GOLD WITH TABB

FIU struck gold in the portal signing Stanford's Cole Tabb to replace Shomari Lawrence's 1000 yds and 13 TD's last season.

Tabb so far through 5 games is on pace to break both those #'s with 131 carries for 493 yds and 7 TD's in 5 games.
His dominance has led fellow Georgia/Wyoming tranfer Cash Jones to get just 27 carries for 104 yds and 1 TD so far his season.

Coach Miller

"To be honest both players have been great. Cash is just too good to sit in the #2 role so it's going to be my job moving forward to get him more involved he showed it with that 96 yd Kick Return for a TD that he is explosive has homerun abilities."

SCORING POINTS IN BUNCHES

With scores of 44 points, 59 points, 38, points, 41 points, 27 points and 37 points, FIU currently leads the nation in scoring at 41 (Texas A&M is #2 at 40.8)

Jenkins 20 Passing TD's currently has him #3 in the nation behind Troy's SR QB Tucker Kilcrease (22) and La Tech JR QB Evan Bullock's (21).

Coach Miller

"If KJ can cut back on some of his turnovers and add a few rushing stats I believe he has a legit shot at making a run at the Heisman, but right now there are alot of players around the nation playing some pretty dang good football"

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

PANTHERS CONTINUE TO MAKE HISTORY!!!

Florida International Golden Panthers at James Madison Dukes
Oct 17, 2026	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
#14 Florida International Golden Panthers ((5-1))	17	10	20	7	54
James Madison Dukes ((4-2))	7	7	7	0	21

Team Stats Comparison
	FIU	JMU
Total Offense	713	353
Rushing Yards	316	36
Passing Yards	397	269
First Downs	31	14
Punt Return Yards	27	9
Kick Return Yards	50	136
Total Yards	790	498
Turnovers	2	3
3rd Down Conversion	7/18	6/19
4th Down Conversion	3/6	1/3
2-Point Conversion	0-1
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	3-2-55%	2-0-40%
Penalties	2-15	3-25
Possession Time	19::39	20:21

FIU coming off their "Bye" Week traveled north to take on a (4-2) James Madison squad who is off to a great start to their season after winning just 1 game last year.

FIU came out of the gates with a fury though scoring twice in the early going to take a (14-0) lead and never really looked back. The Dukes would manage a pair of touchdowns sandwiched around a FG by Glennon to cut the lead to 17-14) midway through the 2nd Quarter but the Panthers would add a touchdown by Cole Tabb to extend the lead to (24-14) with 2 minutes to play in the half and rather then just go into the half down by 10, SO QB JC Evans (72 Ovr) would try and push his luck throwing a INT to JR CB Mister Clark as Clark helps to set up another Glennon FG as time expires making it (27-14) at the half.

James Madison would open up the 2nd half with the ball and wasted little time as Evans shakes off his earlier INT completing 4/4 pass's including a 30 yd scoring strike to SR Erick Harris (73 Ovr) to make it (27-21) but that's a close as they would get as the FIU goes on a run (literally) with 200 yds on the ground as they score 27 unanswered points including 3 rushing TD's as Tabb goes over 200 yds on the day and FIU goes over 300+ for the game.

GAME RECAP

QB K. Jenkins-16/30 (53%) 393 yds 2 TD 1 INT, 18 yds rushing, 1 Fumble
RB C. Tabb-32 carries 221 yds 3 TD
RB C. Jones-10 carries 35 yds
FB A. Ferguson-8 carries 45 yds 1 TD
TE D. Naanee-4 rec 115 yds 1 TD
WR E. Cortez-4 rec 102 yds
WR V. Jones-5 rec 91 yds
WR K. McNeal-3 rec 68 yds 1 TD

UP NEXT

FIU moves up 5 spots to #14 with the win as the improve to 6-1 on the season and a perfect 4-0 in CUSA play.

The Panthers will return home for a Week 8 matchup with (2-4) Appalachian State. The Mountaineers opened up their season with a (23-18) win over James Madison but have since lost 4 of their last 5 games including 3 CUSA matchups vs ECU, Charlotte and Liberty to start the year 1-3 in CUSA play after making the CUSA Championship last season.

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

PANTHERS SQUEEK BY MOUNTAINNERS IN DEFENSIVE SLUGGFEST!!!

Appalachian State Mountaineers at Florida International Golden Panthers
Oct 17, 2026	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Appalachian State Mountaineers ((2-4))	7	0	7	0	14
#14 Florida International Golden Panthers ((6-1))	3	3	3	6	15

Team Stats Comparison
	APP	FIU
Total Offense	320	254
Rushing Yards	87	97
Passing Yards	233	139
First Downs	15	11
Punt Return Yards	0	21
Kick Return Yards	47	44
Total Yards	367	319
Turnovers	3	2
3rd Down Conversion	4/12	4/14
4th Down Conversion	0/1
2-Point Conversion		0/1
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	2-0-66%	1-1-100%
Penalties	8-65	6-60
Possession Time	26:04	33:56

GAME RECAP

After scoring their 2nd 50+ performance and putting up over 700 yds of Total Offense against the Dukes in Week 7, the Florida International Panthers had their worst offensive showing since Coach Miller's arrival as FIU scores just 1 touchdown well QB Keyone Jenkins throws for just 139 yds on the day.

A Jenkins INT killed the Panthers opening drive as the Mountaineers take the early (7-0) lead off the turnover. FIU would manage a pair of FG's though to cut the lead to 7-6) just before the half in what was one of the weirdest 1st half's of football we have seen all season.

Appalachian State opened up the 2nd half with the ball and quickly went down and scored as JR RB Khamani Alexander breaks a 20 yd run for his 2nd TD of the day to make it (14-6).

FIU again would fail to find the endzone as Cole Tabb fumbles the ball midway through the 3rd Quarter, but the FIU Panther Defense generates some turnovers of their own as JR FS Preston Thompson comes up with a INT of SO QB Bruce Shimonek (75 Ovr) to set up Glennon's 3rd FG of the day making it (14-9) as we head to the 4th.

The Mountaineers tried to get cute with a trick play midway through the 4th Quarter as JR WR Zavier Short try's to take a double reverse around the end SS SO Jaden Williams is there as he lays out Short causing a fumble as the FIU Offense takes over.

Still without a touchdown on the day, the Panther Offense finally delivers as Jenkins finds Kyle McNeal on a 28 yd strike to make it (15-14). Leading by 1, Coach Miller elected to try for the 2pt play to make it a 3 point game, but Jenkins's pass is deflected at the last minute..

Appalachian State still with 3:12 to play in the game had 2 more chances at the win, but after failing to convert a 4th and 4, the Mountaineers were forced to punt with 1:56 to play. FIU would turn to Glennon for a chance to make it a 4 point game from 52 yds. Glennon had already made 3 FG's on the day including a 49 yd kick but this time his boot was wide left, leaving it (15-14) with 42 seconds to play.

ASU however would look to Walker again on a Jet Sweep play trying to catch the Panther Defense off guard, but Williams is there again as he knocks the ball loose for a 2nd time as FIU recovers and kneels out the clock.

Coach Miller

"To be honest I am almost speechless. I guess the best thing I can come up with is they can't all be pretty.."

In a game that featured almost no offense from the Panthers, Jaden Williams was named POG with the 2 FF's, as he also finishes with a team high 9 tackles.

OTHER KEY PANTHERS

QB K. Jenkins-11/25 (44%) 139 yds 1 TD 1 INT, 8 yds rushing
RB Cole Tabb-23 carries 95 yds 1 Fumble
WR K. McNeal-7 rec 92 yds 1 TD
TE D. Naanee-3 rec 37 yds
CB P. Thompson-1 INT
PK-I. Glennon 3/4 FG's

UP NEXT

With their 7th straight win, FIU moves up 3 mores spots to #11 in the latest Top-25 rankings, but they will face a huge test in Week 9 as they host #20 (7-0) East Carolina who is in the mist of their own amazing playoff run with a perfect 7-0 season.

The Pirates opened up their season with a (24-20) win over Air Force before defeating Appalachian State in Week 2 (25-21). ECU then shocked the nation with a (54-14) pounding of West Virginia in Week 3 before having their only squeeky win over Old Dominion (10-9) in Week 4.

ECU then defeated FCS West (49-14) in Week 5 before picking up another pair of CUSA wins over Liberty (31-15) and Marshall (31-13) before having a Week 8 "Bye".

How will the "Bye" effect the Pirates as they look to snap the Panthers 7 game win streak will extending their on to 8 games. Will the rest be helpful or will FIU hand the Pirates their first loss of the season.

Right now as it sit's this game is probably a preview of the potential CUSA title game as neither team has lost in CUSA play well every other school has already lost 2 or more games.

[redsox907]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

App St gave you a run for your money, but like I said before you guys are exactly where you wanted to be. As long as you can avoid losing to Liberty or in the CCG, FIU is crashing the party.

I found recruiting a lot harder with Ball State too, obviously USC was pretty easy with all of their great grades. But I found myself with just 7 recruits before the offseason, but of the 10 guys I signed in the offseason period 6 of them had me at #1 and were down to their top 3 after the season. Just keep grinding on them and a few will break through!

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

PIRATES KNOCK OFF PANTHERS IN TOP-25 BATTLE!!

East Carolina Pirates at Florida International Golden Panthers
Oct 17, 2026	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
#20 East Carolina Pirates ((7-0))	14	0	14	14	42
#11 Florida International Golden Panthers ((7-1))	7	21	3	0	31

Team Stats Comparison
	ECU	FIU
Total Offense	402	574
Rushing Yards	127	247
Passing Yards	275	327
First Downs	20	29
Punt Return Yards	51	2
Kick Return Yards	71	111
Total Yards	524	687
Turnovers	1	2
3rd Down Conversion	9/17	5/16
4th Down Conversion	1/1	3/4
2-Point Conversion
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	2-0-40%	1-0-20%
Penalties	3-20	1-15
Possession Time	23:14	16:46

GAME RECAP

East Carolina came into the game with a perfect 7-0 record and for good reason. Their team is good. SR QB Katin Houser (84 Ovr) hasn't been putting up Heisman type #'s but he has bee efficient and doing his job throwing for 1978 yds with 22 TD's and 3 INT through the first 7 games.

Like many of FIU games this season a early Keyone Jenkins INT turns into points for the visiting team as JR CB Kamaurri McKinnley (79 ovr) takes it 68 yds for the "Pick 6" putting ECU up (7-0).

FIU would tie the game though as Jenkins hits TE Dominick Naanee for his 9th TD reception of the season (7-7) but Houser and the Pirates showed they could play some offense too as the Senior QB hits JR WR Trenton Cloud (82 Ovr) on a 31 yd strike to make it (14-7)

The Panthers came out and dominated the 2nd Quarter scoring 3 times as Jenkins throws 3 more touchdowns including a pair of 50 yd bombs to SO WR Faitele Okwara to give FIU the (28-14) lead at the half.

Coach Miller

"Faitele was a huge part of our offense last year and is still one of the fastest players on our team. He has sorta got lost on the depth chart with the addition of Naanee and Jones Jr as well as Enrique Cortez having a breakout year, but he is still a great playmaker who can run past defenders if they don't give him respect."

ECU opened up the 2nd half with the ball and Houser made quick work of the FIU Defense completing 5/6 pass's including another 28 yd strike to Cloud for their 2nd TD's of the game to make it (28-21). The Pirates "D" then came up with a huge stop forcing a Panther Punt and 5 play's later ECU was in the endzone as JR RB London Montgomery (84 ovr) takes it in from 17 yds out to tie the game (28-28).

FIU after dominating the 2nd quarter, continues to struggle in the 3rd as the Panthers settle for a 49 yd FG by Issac Glennon to give them the (31-28) lead going into the 4th.

Still leading by 3, FIU would look to extend their lead with another Glennon 42 yd FG but the kick hits the left upright and bounces out giving the Pirates solid field position with just 3:12 to play in the game.

ECU not wanting to give the Panthers a chance at another score would look to their ground game to take off valuable time and it worked as ECU takes it down to 28 seconds before punching in the go ahead score with with a 8 yd TD run by SO RB TJ Engleman Jr (76 ovr) to make it (35-31).

Down by 4, Jenkins would need to make something happen but a 8 yd sack takes the clock down to 20 seconds as FIU burns their last timeout. It was going to take another Miracle but the Miracle doesn't come as ECU picks off Jenkins as SO FS O'Marion Lewis (79 Ovr) takes it back for the Pirates 2nd "Pick 6" of the game..

ECU's QB Katin Houser finished the game 22/39 (56%) with 275 yds and 2 TD.

Coach Miller

"We knew going into the game that ECU was good. You don't go (7-0) getting lucky. I honestly thought going into the half with 3 straight scores, that we had a solid shot at winning this game.. We were running the ball well but then all of a sudden they started getting the stops they needed and made the right plays when they needed them to get back in the game. Well the loss obviously hurts and does major damage to our playoffs hopes. Are plan is to finish strong and earn a rematch with the them in the CUSA Championship"

KEY PANTHERS

QB-K. Jenkins-18/39 (46%) 327 yds 4 TD 2 INT, Sacked 5 times.
RB C. Tabb-20 carries 164 yds, 1 rec 13 yds
RB C. Jones-14 carries 72 yds
FB A. Ferguson-4 carries 12 yds
WR F. Okwara-2 rec 100 yds 2 TD
WR V. Jones Jr-5 rec 62 yds
WR K. McNeal-3 rec 30 yds
WR E. Cortez-1 rec 8 yds
TE D. Naanee-4 rec 67 yds 1 TD
TE W. Gutierrez-1 rec 42 yds 1 TD
SS J. Williams-11 Tackles.

UP NEXT

With the loss, FIU drops to #17 in the rankings. Surprisingly with the win ECU only moves up 2 spots to #18 despite being 1 of just 3 teams still with a perfect record.

FIU will travel Norfolk Virginia for a matchup with the (2-6) Old Dominion. The Monarchs started their year 0-4 with loss's to Rutgers, Virginia Tech, James Madison and ECU. They have won 2 of their last 4 games including a (30-25). They are coming off a Week 9 "Bye"

[xboxxerx]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

Time to get back on that horse and wrap the regular season up with a winning record these last couple games before the bowl season.

Sent from my SM-S928U using Operation Sports mobile app

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

Time to get back on that horse and wrap the regular season up with a winning record these last couple games before the bowl season.

Sent from my SM-S928U using Operation Sports mobile app

Well it sucks that ECU beat us, the good news is even though Liberty by rating is the best team in the conference they are getting beat up on and are currently like 4-7.. I still expect them to put up a challenge but the game is at home and it's Senior Day.. I am pretty sure I am undefeated on Senior Day in all of my Dynasties so far. I actually have the Old Dominion game played but still got to play Charlotte who is looking for their 6th win to bet bowl eligible..

If I win out, I think I will get back to like #13-15 in the rankings and if I can win the rematch against ECU, I should be looking at a playoff seed instead of the a bowl game, but honestly I would be pretty stoked with a 10+ win season and another bowl win too. Maybe even more so then making the playoffs and losing in the 1st Round, but we will see.

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

PANTHERS KEEP TITLE HOPES ALIVE!!

Florida International Golden Panthers at Old Dominion Monarchs
Oct 17, 2026	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
#17 Florida International Golden Panthers ((7-2))	14	3	7	10	34
Old Dominion Monarchs ((2-6))	0	0	6	7	13

Team Stats Comparison
	FIU	OD
Total Offense	415	241
Rushing Yards	132	61
Passing Yards	270	153
First Downs	21	10
Punt Return Yards	35	28
Kick Return Yards	47	162
Total Yards	497	431
Turnovers	0	0
3rd Down Conversion	7/12	6/14
4th Down Conversion		1/2
2-Point Conversion		0/1
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	2-2-80%	1-0-100%
Penalties	3-30	2-30
Possession Time	33:41	26:19

GAME RECAP

FIU coming off a disappointing loss to ECU, knew that 1 more loss and any chances of a playoff spot was over as well as their stay in the Top-25.

The Panthers come out scoring quickly as Jenkins throws a pair of touchdowns to Victor Jones Jr to give FIU the (14-0) lead. FIU would add a FG midway through the 2nd Quarter to take a (17-0) lead into the half.

Old Dominion opened up the 2nd half with the ball and JR QB Colton Joseph (80 Ovr) would lead the Monarchs on a 9 play drive resulting in a 19 yd TD pass to JR TJ Lott (72 Ovr) to make it (17-6). ODU would elect to keep the offense on the field for the 2pt play but failed to convert..

FIU wasted little time expanding their lead as Jenkins and Jones Jr score the hat trick connecting 24 yd TD as the Panthers extend the lead (24-6) going into the 4th.

Still leading by 18, FIU goes to the ground game as Cole Tabb breaks a 40 yd TD run with 6 minutes to play extending the lead to (31-6).

The Monarchs however were not ready to just roll over and quit as Joseph and Lott hook up on a 50 yd bomb to make it (31-13) still with over 5 minutes to play in the game.

FIU would punt the ball with under 2 minutes to play but ODU would have a quick 4 and out putting the Panthers in FG range with 42 seconds on the clock. Say what you want to say, but rather then running out the clock with a kneel down, Coach Miller lined up SO Issac Glennon for a 31 yd FG attempt that he drills as time expires.

Coach Miller "

I know some people might think it's running up the score, but to me every opportunity is a chance to learn and build confindence. Issac has nailed some big kicks this season for us, but he also has had his share of miss's and we felt like it was important to get him more chances at hitting kicks late in the game well tryig to make it feel like a game winner"

KEY PANTHERS

QB K. Jenkins-21/30 (70%) 270 yds 3 TD, sacked twice,
RB C. Tabb-24 carries 136 yds 1 TD
WR V. Jones Jr-7 rec 104 yds 3 TD
WT E. Cortez-6 rec 66 yds
TE D. Nannee-7 rec 94 yds

UP NEXT

With the win FIU jumps back up 3 spots in the Top-25 rankings to #14 keeping their playoff hopes alive.

The Panthers road trip continues as they fly to Charlotte in Week 11, to face the (5-5) 49's. Charlotte looking to get to their 6th win, was one of the teams to beat FIU last season as Coach Miller looks to even things up with the school.

[Deuce2223]

Re: The Making of a Legend Part II "It's Miller Time".. CFB25

FIU CLINCHES TITLE SHOT!!!

Florida International Golden Panthers at Charlotte 49ers
Oct 17, 2026	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
#14 Florida International Golden Panthers ((8-2))	21	6	18	14	59
Charlotte 49ers ((5-5))	7	7	6	14	28

Team Stats Comparison
	FIU	CHAR
Total Offense	553	412
Rushing Yards	139	154
Passing Yards	414	246
First Downs	31	18
Punt Return Yards	136	25
Kick Return Yards	81	81
Total Yards	770	518
Turnovers	2	1
3rd Down Conversion	6/14	4/18
4th Down Conversion	1-2	2-3
2-Point Conversion	1-1	0/1
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	4-1-62%	3-0-75%
Penalties	1-5	3-37
Possession Time	15:32	24:28

GAME RECAP

FIU wins their 2nd straight road game over the 49's and in the process secure a spot in the CUSA title game with a rematch against East Carolina.

Charlotte opened up the game with the ball and quickly score as SR RB Terron Kellman (89 ovr) takes it 29 yds to the house capping a 7 play drive to make it (7-0), but FIU responds scoring 3 straight touchdowns to take a (21-7) lead in the 1st Quarter as Keyone Jenkins throws for 1 score and JR RB Cole Tabb runs for 2. inlcuding a 18 yd run up the middle and through 3 defenders.

Kellman would respond by scoring his 2nd rushing TD of the day to cut the lead to (21-14) but the Panthers tack on a pair of Issac Glennon FG's to extend the lead to (27-14) at the half.

FIU opened up the 2nd half with the ball as Todd scores the hat trick with his 3rd rushing TD of the game and 14th of the season making it (33-14). FIU would keep the offense on the field as Jenkins hits McNeal for the 2pt play to make it (35-14), the Panther would then force a punt and for the 2nd time this season, FIU would score on a huge special teams play as RS FR Enrique Cortez takes the punt 77 yds to the house to extend FIU's lead to (42-14).

*The punt return for a TD was the first for me in this game. I have had a couple other Kick Return TD's but typically don't have much luck getting more then 8-12 yds on a punt return.

FIU would latter add another Glennon FG to make it (45-14) as we head to the 4th Quarter.

With a 31 point lead, Coach Miller knew it was important to give his starters some rest but also to get some reserves some valuable playing time. But as the FIU Offense retook the field it was Louisville transfer SR Brady Allen behind center instead of SO Clayton Dee's.

Allen looked pretty solid completing his first 2 pass's of the game including a 70 yd bomb to Freshman TE Dominik Naanee who continues to put up insane #'s with his team leading 11th TD of the season.

Charlotte would respond with a scoring drive of their own as SR QB Max Brown (82 Ovr) keeps it himself for a 19 yd rushing touchdown to make it (52-21).

After completing his first 2 pass's Allen wasn't as sharp in series #2 as he completes just 1 of 3 attempts before throwing his first career INT, setting up another 49'er touchdown as Brown connects with SR WR Isaiah Myers (81 Ovr) on a 41 yd score making it (52-28).

FIU would would fail to pick up a 4th and 1 turning the ball back over to Charlotte on downs, but Browns pass is picked off by OLB Ronnie McRae who takes it back to the 1 yd line before being tackled as Brown saves the "Pick 6".

The Panthers however would score 2 plays later as Cash Jones punches it in from 1 yd out for the final score of the game.

Brown finished the game 20/31 (64%) for 246 yds with 1 TD and 1 INT, well adding 33 yds on the ground and another score.

RB Terron Kellman finished with 30 carries for 132 yds and 2 TD and Myers led the team with 5 rec for 90 yds and the TD.

KEY PANTHERS

QB K. Jenkins-17/43 (39%) 331 yds 1 TD 1 INT, sacked 4 times
QB B. Allen-3/6 (50%) 93 yds 1 TD 1 INT
RB C. Todd-30 carries 157 yds 3 TD
RB C Jones-8 carries 15 yds 1 TD
TE D. Naanne-7 rec 240 yds 2 TD
WR V. Jones Jr-6 rec 74 yds
WR E. McNeal-2 rec 34 yds
WR E. Cortez-2 rec 26 yds

UP NEXT

FIU moves to (8-2) with the win staying at #14 in the Polls, as they go into their Week 12 "Bye" Week.

The Panthers will return to action in Week 13 hosting (Liberty) for "Senior Night" The Flames are currently (4-6) and will need to win their final 2 games including the matchup with FIU to get Bowl Eligible.