Week 5: Florida Internaitonal at Toledo

Both Toledo and Florida International are reeling from tough losses, and a non-conference win could at least ease any lingering frustrations. Toledo lost 55-54 in double-overtime to Fresno State when its two-point conversion failed. FIU debuted its new stadium and narrowly missed an upset of in-state foe South Florida in a 17-9 loss. It would’ve easily been FIU’s biggest win in program history, but any victory would be significant for the Golden Panthers, who have lost 26 of their last 27 games.

FIU’s theme of poor offense remains, as it ranks last nationally in total offense and scoring offense. Quarterbacks Wayne Younger and Paul McCall are in a revolving door, and neither has passed for 180 yards total this season. The key for FIU to stay in the game is limiting turnovers. It only had one in its close loss to South Florida.

Toledo should have plenty of offense to pull away from FIU. The Rockets average 37 points per game, nearly twice as much as FIU has scored in three games combined. Toledo’s loss to Fresno State came at home, and an impressive win over FIU in front of the same crowd would put the last game in the past.

Notes:

Toledo is 41-7 at home since 2000.

Toledo scored as many points (54) in its last game as FIU in its previous nine non-conference games combined.

FIU only has one offensive touchdown this season. Running back Julian Reams scored on a 1-yard run against South Florida.

FIU has blocked a kick in each of the last two games. It only blocked two kicks all of last season.

Key Player (Golden Panthers) — Julian Reams, RB

The senior had a season-high 12 rushing attempts last week and scored FIU’s first offensive TD. FIU needs a steady running attack to stabilize the offense.

Key Player (Rockets) — Morgan Williams, RB

The freshman had 142 rushing yards last week, while starter DaJuane Collins added 138 yards. Williams can increase his role with another productive performance.

Toledo by 21