FIU opens season with big challenge at USF

PUBLISHED Sep 3, 2026, 3:19 PM ET

Florida International opens its 2026 season Saturday against South Florida in Tampa, with the Panthers entering as underdogs. FIU will play at Raymond James Stadium at 7 p.m. ET, with ESPN+ carrying the game. The Panthers went 7-6 in 2025, became bowl eligible for the first time since 2019 and finished the regular season with four consecutive victories. South Florida went 9-4 last season and begins a new era under first-year head coach Brian Hartline, the former Ohio State offensive coordinator. LSU transfer Michael Van Buren Jr. was officially named the Bulls’ starting quarterback on Aug. 25 after competing with Luke Kromenhoek. FIU quarterback JJ Kohl will make his first career start after transferring from Appalachian State. Both programs underwent roster changes, making the opener an early test of their new identities. FIU’s coaches view the game as an opportunity to measure FIU against stronger competition before conference play.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 12
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 12

Explain Framing

Left: Evidence insufficient to establish a distinct left-leaning framing pattern. Center: Coverage emphasizes schedules, roster changes, coaching transitions, and competitive uncertainty. Right: Evidence insufficient to establish a distinct right-leaning framing pattern.