Liberty Flames vs. FIU Panthers: College Football Showdown Preview

The Florida International Panthers, holding a 2-3 overall record and 1-0 in conference play, are preparing for a significant challenge as they head on the road to face the Liberty Flames on Tuesday in Lynchburg, Virginia. This Conference USA matchup marks the start of Week 7 in the college football calendar. Florida International recently secured an upset victory over Louisiana Tech with a score of 17-10, recovering from a prior loss to Monmouth, an FCS team. A win against Liberty would allow the Panthers to achieve their first 2-0 start in conference play since 2018.

The Liberty Flames, undefeated at 4-0 and 2-0 in the conference, are considered strong favorites in the upcoming game. Liberty has not played since September 21, when they triumphed over East Carolina 35-24, due to the cancellation of their game against Appalachian State following Hurricane Helene. Historical trends favor the Flames, as they decisively triumphed over FIU with a 38-6 victory in their last encounter. The game is slated for a 7 p.m. ET kickoff and will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network. SportsLine consensus has the Flames favored by 16 points with an over/under set at 55.5 points.

College football expert Kaylor, known for his deep insight into both NFL and college circuits, has a compelling track record, particularly in his selections over the past two years. His picks last season led to a notable gain with a recorded 107-45-2 outcome. “My experience as a player provides a unique lens through which I view these games,” Kaylor remarked in a recent interview.

Liberty is led by their standout quarterback Salter, a prospective NFL draft candidate. In the 2023 season, Salter amassed 2,876 passing yards with 32 touchdowns, alongside 1,089 rushing yards. Currently, he has contributed 949 passing yards and seven touchdowns across the 2024 season, emphasizing his substantial role in the team’s offensive performance.

Meanwhile, FIU’s resurgence is partly credited to second-year quarterback Jenkins, who has tallied 1,104 passing yards with nine touchdowns. “Jenkins is a vital playmaker,” FIU head coach Mike MacIntyre commented, celebrating his contributions. FIU also leans on junior wide receiver Smith, who averages over 18 yards per reception this season.

Analysts anticipate that Liberty’s ambition to secure a bid into the coveted Group of Five Playoff spot may see them pushing hard against FIU. Despite this, expert Andrew Caley notes potential areas of vulnerability within Liberty’s squad. “They’ve struggled to cover spreads in early matchups,” he noted, highlighting Liberty’s tendency to slow starts in the first halves of their games this year.

Photographs and further insights into individual plays can be accessed via SportsLine and further game analysis is available through the CBS Sports Network on the day of the game. Coverage will also consider weather impacts and the strategic adjustments made by both squads.