Football sets a new program record in win over UTEP


By Joel Delgado ’12 MS ’17 

After a disappointing loss on the road, coming home proved to be just what FIU football needed to get back on track.

The Panthers scored 42 points in the first half, a new program record, on their way to a 52-12 win over the UTEP Miners in their Conference USA home opener on Oct. 10. A 26-yard touchdown run by freshman Anthony Jones with 5:41 remaining in the first half and the ensuing extra point helped set the new program benchmark for first half scoring.

The previous record was set back in 2003, when the Panthers put up 41 points in the first half against Jacksonville. FIU’s 52 total points also tied the second-highest point total ever scored by the Panthers in a single game (they scored 52 points at Troy in 2010 and against Florida Atlantic in 2005).

With just over 11 minutes remaining in the second quarter, FIU had already jumped out to a 35-0 lead over the Miners with six different Panthers getting involved in the scoring.

Running back Alex Gardner, who has emerged as a dual threat for the Panthers on the ground and through the air, led the Panthers in rushing (56 yards rushing and a touchdown on 10 carries) and receiving (five receptions for 96 yards) against the Miners.

With the win, the Panthers now have a 3-3 overall record and are 2-1 in conference play. The Panthers are now three wins away from becoming bowl eligible with a critical four-game stretch beginning Oct. 17 at Middle Tennessee.

The Panthers will then host their Homecoming Game against Old Dominion on Oct. 24, take on rival Florida Atlantic in Boca Raton on Oct. 31 and then host Football Bowl Subdivison newcomer Charlotte on Nov. 7.

For more information on FIU football, go to FIUSports.com.